Child and Youth Worker

Job Title: Children and Youth Worker

Location: Maplegate House for Women

Reports To: Program Supervisor

Position Type: One Year Internship

Position Summary:

The Children and Youth Worker at Maplegate House for Women plays a critical role in supporting the emotional, developmental, and practical needs of children and youth living in the shelter. This position is responsible for planning, coordinating, and facilitating age-appropriate programs, while also supporting children and youth who are coping with crisis, trauma, and transitions.

The role also involves assisting families as they adjust to shelter life- helping mothers navigate parenting challenges in a communal setting and providing tools that promote family stability and healing.

Key Responsibilities:

Child and Youth Programming:

• Develop and deliver engaging, trauma-informed programs and activities for children and youth of all ages.
• Create a safe and inclusive environment that fosters play, creativity, learning, and emotional expression.
• Organize recreational, educational, and therapeutic group activities on a regular schedule.

Crisis and Emotional Support:

• Provide one-on-one support to children and youth experiencing emotional or behavioral challenges due to trauma, abuse, or displacement.
• Support children and youth through crisis situations using a trauma-informed and child-centered approach.
• Collaborate with mothers and guardians to identify the specific needs of each child.

Transition and Settlement Support:

• Welcome and assist children and youth as they transition into the shelter environment.
• Support families in adjusting to communal living and shelter routines.
• Help create a structured and predictable environment to support emotional safety and regulation.

Family and Parent Support:

• Work collaboratively with mothers and caregivers to support positive parenting and family routines.
• Provide resources, referrals, and guidance related to parenting, child development, and community supports.
• Participate in family meetings and case planning sessions where appropriate.

Collaboration and Advocacy:

• Liaise with external agencies such as schools, child protection services, and mental health providers.
• Advocate for the needs and rights of children and youth in both internal and external settings.
• Work closely with the broader shelter team to ensure continuity of care for families.

Administrative Duties:

• Maintain accurate records and case notes for all interactions with children and youth.
• Track participation in programs and report on outcomes and client progress.
• Ensure that all services are delivered in alignment with Maplegate House's policies, confidentiality standards, and child protection regulations.

Qualifications:

• New graduates in the areas of Child and Youth Work, Social Services, Early Childhood Education, Psychology, or a related field.
• Knowledge of trauma-informed care, child development, and family systems.
• Experience supporting children who have experienced violence, trauma, or disruption.
• Familiarity with community resources for children, youth, and families.
• Strong communication, de-escalation, and conflict resolution skills.
• Current First Aid/CPR and vulnerable sector police check (or willingness to obtain).
• Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends as needed.

Core Competencies:

• Empathy and Compassion
• Trauma-Informed Practice
• Child-Centered Approach
• Flexibility and Creativity
• Teamwork and Collaboration
• Strong Communication Skills
• Cultural Sensitivity and Inclusivity

Working Conditions:

• Shelter environment with exposure to individuals in crisis.
• Physically active role, including setting up activities and engaging with children of all ages.
• May include evening and weekend programming.

To Apply:

Please send your resume and cover letter to with the subject line: Children and Youth Worker Application – [Your Name]

Application Deadline: October 14, 2025

Child and Youth Worker Internship position is funded by Northern Ontario Heritage Fund Corporation.

Job Types: Full-time, Fixed term contract, Internship / Co-op

Contract length: 12 months

Pay: $19.48-$22.60 per hour

Expected hours: 40 per week

Work Location: In person