Cultural, Health & Educational Assistant

Reports to: Early Years Leadership Team

Term: FULL-TIME CONTRACT to December 31, 2024, subject to renewal

Hours: 40 hours per week, flexibility is required.

Deadline: Open until filled

Pursuant to Section 24 of the Ontario Human Rights Code (the Code), this position will give preference to applicants who identify as a member of an Indigenous community (First Nations, Métis and Inuit peoples). Candidates from this group are invited to self-identify in their cover letter, transparently, as part of the application process. 

Niwasa Kendaaswin Teg provides wholistic programs and service for Indigenous children, youth, families and community that are rooted in culture and language. Our vision is to provide high quality programming that fosters identity formation and creates a sense of belonging.

Niwasa Kendaaswin Teg is looking for an energetic individual to support the Early Learning Centre. The Cultural, Health and Educational Assistant will work collaboratively with Educators to support an inclusive environment for all children with a specialized focus on the management of medically complex needs. This successful candidate will provide personalized support, assistance, and medical care to children with specific health conditions or special needs. The Cultural, Health and Educational Assistant will work closely with families to ensure the individual medical care needs of their child(ren) are being met and assist families to access specialized programs and services and support the development of Individual Plans. The Cultural, Health and Educational Assistant will provide culturally relevant individual and group support within the early learning environment.

RESPONSIBILITIES

Support the inclusion of all children in the early learning environment, utilizing inclusion tools.
Assist children with activities of daily living, including feeding, dressing, grooming, toileting, and personal hygiene, always ensuring their comfort and dignity.
Provide support and encouragement to children in developing independence and self-care skills appropriate to their age and abilities.
Work with children with individualized or medical needs, who may have a variety of conditions that may affect their physical, communication, intellectual, emotional, social and/or behavioral development
Support the inclusion of children in activities that promote their spiritual, emotional, intellectual, and physical growth, which will assist in their transition to elementary school and contribute to lifelong learning.
Monitor children closely during playtime, meals, naps, and outdoor activities, ensuring their safety and preventing accidents or injuries.
Maintain a secure and child-friendly environment, removing hazards, securing equipment and supplies, and implementing safety protocols and procedures.
Build rapport with children, establishing trusting relationships and providing emotional support, reassurance, and encouragement.
Engage children in age-appropriate activities, games, crafts, and educational exercises that promote their social, cognitive, emotional, physical, and spiritual development.
Communicate effectively with children, parents, caregivers, and colleagues, providing updates on children’s activities, progress, and any concerns or observations.
Collaborate with other childcare staff and professionals to coordinate care, share information, and ensure a holistic approach to meeting children’s needs that align with IPP/IEP
Willing to receive appropriate training to support the needs of the child in the classroom.
Assist children with specific needs by utilizing positive strategies including braille, sign language, and co-regulation.
Implement positive behavior management strategies and techniques to support children in developing self-regulation, social skills, and appropriate behavior.
Address challenging behaviors with patience, empathy, and consistency, using redirection, positive reinforcement, and conflict resolution strategies as needed.
Experience utilizing assistive technology, computer software: such as: SMART Technology, Boardmaker, Intellitools, Kurzwell and augmentative communication devices ect.
Monitor children’s health and well-being, recognizing signs of illness, discomfort, or distress, and responding promptly to address their needs and notifying caregivers.
Administer medication, follow health care plans, or therapies as required, maintaining accurate records and documentation.
Implementing infection control measures and promoting hygiene practices.
Responding to medical emergencies promptly and efficiently.
Follow established protocols for emergency situations and communicating with emergency services as needed.
Experience working in a politically sensitive environment.
Ability to meet deadlines.
Resourceful, motivated, and energetic
Any other duties as assigned

WORKING CONDITIONS

Support all areas of Niwasa Early Learning classrooms in collaboration with the Leadership Team to identify what is needed.
Interact with children, family members, staff, visitors, and Community partners.

QUALIFICATIONS

Certification as a Personal Support Worker or Development Support Worker
Additional training or certification in pediatric care or childcare is an asset.
Knowledge of child development, health conditions, and safety protocols.
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
Ability to meet physical requirements, including lifting, bending, and engaging in active play with children.
Understanding of and commitment to maintaining confidentiality, professionalism, and ethical standards in childcare practice.
Ability to work collaboratively in a team setting.
Demonstrated experience working with children within a health care environment.
Current Vulnerable Sector Screen within the last 6 months
Up to date Immunizations, including TB test.
Current First Aid and CPR certificate is required.
Ability to manage multiple tasks while meeting deadlines and determining priorities.
Strong computer skills including excellent Microsoft Office skills.
Knowledge of Indigenous Culture and language is an asset.

Forward resume and cover letter to : [email protected]; subject: name of positing application.

To Apply

Please submit your resume, cover letter, and references by Friday November 22, 2024, to [email protected]. Be sure to highlight relevant experience and why you are passionate about supporting our mission.