Aboriginal Child Development Practitioners are specialists who plan, organize, and implement activities for preschool children. They lead activities to stimulate and develop intellectual, physical, and emotional growth and demonstrate an ability to effectively integrate local culture, traditions, interests, and values.
Job Related Skills, Interests and Values
- Caring for infants and toddlers
- Developing, implementing, and leading daily activities for children; preparing and teaching crafts
- Supervising and coordinating the activities of other early childhood educators and assistants as required
- Guiding and assisting children in social development
- Acting as an advocate for and with children and their families; effectively communicating with parents and other staff members
- Planning and participating in field trips and community events
- Observing children for signs of learning disabilities or emotional problems
- Celebrating cultural and community events and demonstrating an understanding of culturally specific and traditional Aboriginal parenting
- Continuously learning about new teaching methods and childcare theories
- Acquiring working knowledge of various applicable government acts and regulations
What Preparation and Training Do You Need?
- Secondary school diploma with English and business communication credits; co-op recommended
- Completion of a 6,480-hour apprenticeship, including a combination of on-the-job and in-school training
What's Your Future as a Aboriginal Child Development Practitioner (620B)?
- Female-dominated field; often part-time hours
- Possible to progress to senior positions within licensed day care establishments, aboriginal child care centres, and nursery schools
- May take additional post-secondary education to become elementary school teacher
- Employers include band councils, Aboriginal daycare centres, nursery schools, and social service organizations
Wage Rate
Apprentice wage increases with skill and experience. Fully qualified professionals range from minimum wage to $17.00+ per hour.
Self-Rating
Aboriginal Child Development Practitioner (620B)
| Ask Yourself: | Yes | No |
|---|---|---|
| Do you enjoy working with people of all ages? | ||
| Do you have excellent reading and writing skills? | ||
| Do you enjoy planning and implementing different activities? | ||
| Are you able to follow Health & Safety guidelines? | ||
| Are you comfortable working inside and outside? | ||
| Are you detail-oriented and have the ability to work closely with others? How are your communication skills? Do you have good patience? | ||
| Are you reliable, a self-starter and able to work with minimal supervision? |
If you checked YES to the majority of these questions, a career as an Aboriginal Child Development Practitioner (620B) may be for you!
You might want to look at these similar trades as well;
- Teacher
- Educational Assistant
- Personal Support Worker
- Adolescent & Youth Worker
- Instructor
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