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Where It All Begins

The early years are the foundation of a person's life.

Early Childhood Educators are the professionals who guide them - a skilled career with real impact, real training, and real career paths.

Early Childhood Educators' impact across Ontario

ECEs support more than children's early learning. They help families access the care they need, support parents' participation in the workforce, and strengthen communities across the province. As demand for child care continues to grow, Ontario needs more skilled ECEs to help expand access to quality early learning and care.

A young child stacks colourful alphabet blocks, carefully reaching to place a yellow block on top of the tower.Knowing that I can make a child feel safe, loved, confident and heard is what makes this profession so special to me. The work may look like play, but behind that play is so much learning, intention and care.
Vaishnavi M. - ECE for less than five years
Read Their Story
A young child plays with a yellow stacking toy in a bright, spacious classroom, surrounded by colourful educational toys and art supplies on the wooden floor.Early Childhood Educators help build the foundation for children’s confidence, emotional well-being, social skills and love of learning. We support not only children and families, but also the workforce and economy that depend on access to quality child care.
Jesika R - ECE for over five years
Read Their Story
Woman helping two children cross the street.Through the relationships we build, the environments we create and the support we provide, Early Childhood Educators help children develop confidence, resilience and a sense of belonging. In everyday moments, we are helping shape capable, confident and resilient humans.
Erica S - ECE for more than 10 years
Read Their Story
See all stories

Ready to explore what you can become

Educator

Supports children's learning, development and well-being through play-based, responsive programming.

Works inChild care centres, EarlyON, before- and after-school programs, kindergarten classrooms

PathwayEarn an ECE credential • Register with the College of Early Childhood Educators • Begin working in the sector

Licensed Home Child Care Provider

Provides licensed home-based child care and supports children's learning and development in a smaller setting.

Works inLicensed home child care

PathwayMeet agency and licensing requirements • Complete relevant training • Operate or work within licensed home child care

Resource Consultant

Works with educators and families to support the inclusion and development of children with additional needs.

Works inChild care, EarlyON and community programs

PathwayECE credential • Sector experience • Additional training or qualifications in inclusion/special needs

Pedagogical Leader

Supports educators in strengthening curriculum, reflective practice and high-quality learning environments.

Works inChild care organizations, EarlyON and other early years programs

PathwayECE credential • Experience as an educator • Professional learning and leadership experience

Supervisor / Leadership

Leads teams, supports program quality and oversees day-to-day operations.

Works inChild care centres and early years organizations

PathwayECE credential • Work in the sector • Build leadership experience and complete additional training • Move into a supervisory role

Is this career for me?

Take two minutes to find out which kind of ECE path could be the right fit for you.

Question 1 of 11

What kind of impact would you most like to make?

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