Job Description

Casual Child Development Worker - Make a Difference in Children's Lives!

Rowan House Society

provides crisis intervention and preventative education to support individuals affected by domestic violence and abuse. We serve a large geographic area in Southern Alberta, including Foothills County, Vulcan County, and MD of Willow Creek.

Join our team in providing critical support to children and families experiencing domestic violence and abuse.

Position Summary:

As a Child Development Worker, you will play a crucial role in providing specialized childcare services within a trauma-informed framework. You will be responsible for planning and implementing activities that support children's social and emotional well-being, helping them cope with the effects of experiencing domestic violence and abuse. Your comprehensive understanding of trauma-informed care and child development, along with Rowan House Society programs, will be essential in effectively addressing the unique needs of children in our care.

Key Responsibilities: Making an Impact Every Day

Your days will be diverse and impactful, directly contributing to the healing and development of the children and families we serve. Some of your primary responsibilities will include:

Client Intake & Documentation:

Complete family registrations, waivers, referrals, and ensure accurate client information in our database. Maintain thorough records including case notes, critical incident reports, and client feedback surveys.

Program Facilitation:

Lead engaging weekly parenting groups.

Collaborative Case Management:

Work closely with the Program Coordinator and other team members to develop supportive plans and integrate case management strategies, ensuring client needs are met.

Advocacy & Referrals:

Liaise with and advocate for clients with other community service providers, professionals, and school personnel. Provide referrals to local schooling options.

Safety Planning & Care:

Complete safety plans with children. Provide custodial care and ensure proper safety and supervision of children, including during caregiver appointments and program activities.

Activity Development:

Plan and implement structured, purposeful activities that are developmentally appropriate and encourage learning through play.

Routine Management:

Create consistent schedules and routines for physical activity, rest, playtime, and meals.

Observation & Support:

Observe children for emotional or developmental concerns, bringing them to the attention of caregivers and the Program Coordinator. Support children's emotional and social development, fostering positive self-concepts and healthy habits like hygiene and toileting.

Caregiver Support:

Assist in developing positive caregiver-child communication and discipline through education, role modeling, and one-on-one conversations.

Safe Environments:

Organize play areas, ensuring all health and safety procedures are followed, including sanitizing toys and equipment.

General Duties:

Provide general parenting information, consult with caregivers on child progress, accompany clients to appointments, and perform other duties as assigned.

Who We're Looking For: Your Qualifications

We seek a compassionate individual with a strong commitment to children's well-being and an understanding of the complexities of domestic violence.

Required Qualification:

Early Childhood Educator Certification (Level 1, 2, or 3).

Educational Assistant or Human Services diploma with relevant experience may be considered.

Experience, Knowledge and Abilities:

A minimum of

two years of experience

working with children exposed to domestic violence and abuse. Knowledge of

Zones of Regulation

and

trauma-informed practices

. Proficiency in

Microsoft applications

and effective

time management skills

. In-depth

knowledge of the effects of domestic violence and abuse

and community resources, especially in the Foothills area. Strong

observation, organizational skills

, and knowledge of child assessment. Commitment to

cultural humility, diversity, and equality

. Understanding of the unique cultural and spiritual needs of

Indigenous individuals and communities

. Ability to

plan, organize, and prioritize

responsibilities to meet deadlines and manage varying workloads. Must be

discreet and maintain confidentiality

. Ability to

work collaboratively

in a positive, professional, and approachable team setting. Capability to

maintain a calm manner

and use critical thinking in unpredictable situations. Ability to maintain

professional boundaries

with staff and clients. Strong capacity to

manage risk

and promote high ethical standards.

Essential Certifications:

Current

Criminal Record Check, Vulnerable Sector Check, and Child Intervention Check

. Valid

CPR and First Aid Certificate

. Current

Suicide Prevention, Risk Assessment & Management

training. Current

Non-Violent Crisis Intervention

training.

Naloxone Poisoning Prevention Certificate

.

Valid driver's license

with a clear 3-year driver's abstract and reliable transportation.

Working Conditions & Physical Requirements:

This is a

casual position

, meaning hours are not guaranteed and will vary based on program needs.

Flexibility is required

; evening and weekend shifts may be necessary. This is an

in-person position

at the Emergency Shelter in High River, Alberta; it is not remote.

Physical Demands:

May be required to lift and carry children up to 60 pounds. May be required to sit at a desk/computer for extended periods.
Job Type: Casual

Ability to commute/relocate:

High River, AB: reliably commute or plan to relocate before starting work (preferred)
Work Location: In person