Family Support Worker

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

1. 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)