General Role Summary

Reporting to the Resource Team Leader, the Child and Family Support Worker is responsible for strengthening family engagement, supporting inclusive programming, and contributing to the social-emotional well-being of children and families at the Center. This position works directly with families and staff to create a nurturing, responsive, and culturally aligned environment that reflects the values and goals of Step by Step.

Key Responsibilities & Tasks

• Family Engagement and Community Connection

• Create a welcoming, family-centered presence at the Center.

• Design strategies for meaningful family participation in daily activities and long-term programming.

• Promote volunteer opportunities within the community, including involvement from individuals with disabilities.

• Develop culturally relevant spaces and events that support the use and revitalization of the Kanien’kéha language.

• Maintain regular contact with families to support communication and relationship-building.

• Offer workshops and parent support sessions, including evidence-based programs such as Circle of Security.

2. Classroom and Teacher Collaboration

• Be present in classrooms to assess children's evolving needs and inform family communication.
• Support teachers in collaborating with families, especially when developing individualized goals or navigating challenges.
• Assist with screenings, assessments (e.g., sensory profiles), and contribute to team meetings and IEP implementation.
• Respond to support calls in classrooms and collaborate in developing strategies aligned with the child’s needs.
• Provide feedback to the Resource Services Coordinator as needed.

3. Parent Capacity Building

• Identify family learning needs through direct engagement.
• Develop personalized family support plans and offer coaching, referrals, and educational resources.
• Foster family independence by supporting the creation of natural support networks and empowering parents with knowledge and tools.
• Collaborate with teachers to bridge home and school learning environments.

4. Promoting a Healthy Home Environment

• Design activities that support positive parenting and quality of life at home.
• Encourage natural, play-based learning strategies in the home setting.
• Advocate for effective, respectful communication between families and classroom staff.

5. Professional Growth and Leadership

• Stay current on best practices in inclusive and early childhood education.
• Attend training sessions, conferences, and professional development events.
• Share new insights, skills, and practices with peers across the organization.

6. Community Involvement

• Participate in center-based committees and Step by Step events.
• Represent the Center at community initiatives and outreach efforts.

7. Additional Responsibilities

• Engage in school functions such as fundraisers, awareness events, and public information sessions.
• Perform other related duties aligned with the vision and mandate of the Center.

Working Conditions

• Role requires flexibility between office, classroom, outdoor, and home-based settings.
• Involves occasional physical activity (kneeling, crouching, lifting, etc.).
• May require implementation of child safety holds (training provided).
• High-pressure or emotionally sensitive situations may occur.

Relationships and Collaboration

• Reports directly to the Resource Team Leader and collaborates regularly with the Supervisor of Program Services.
• Works in close partnership with all teaching and resource staff.
• Engages directly with children and families to support development and well-being.
• Participates in internal committees as appropriate.

Accountabilities

• Strengthen family engagement and promote inclusive, culturally rooted practices.
• Provide high-quality, individualized support to families of children 0–5 years old.
• Maintain confidentiality and uphold safety standards.
• Contribute to Step by Step’s reputation as a caring, community-led early childhood center.

Perks

• Low child-to-staff ratios and strong team support
• A respectful and collaborative work culture
• Flexibility in scheduling and leadership growth pathways
• Paid vacation, comprehensive benefits after 6 months, and participation in annual wellness fund
• The opportunity to make a lasting impact in a purpose-driven, Indigenous-led community organization

Qualifications

Education & Experience

• Bachelor of Social Work with a minimum of 1 year experience working with families of young children, OR
• Certificate in Aboriginal Social Work with a minimum of 5 years’ experience supporting young families
• Valid CPR, First Aid, and Epi-Pen Certification (childcare-specific)
• Experience in early childhood settings with children 0–5 and their families
• Circle of Security training (or willingness to obtain)

Skills & Attributes

• Strong interpersonal, coaching, and communication skills
• Experience working with children who have developmental or social-emotional needs
• Familiarity with family systems, multi-generational trauma, and attachment-based practices
• Ability to build trust and rapport with families and interdisciplinary teams
• Organizational and planning skills
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and communication software
• Knowledge of Kanien’kéha language and culture is an asset; willingness to learn is essential
• Ability to work in English (French is an asset)