Southwest Ontario Aboriginal Health Access Centre (SOAHAC) is a diverse, multiservice Indigenous health and wellness agency, who has recently embarked on a new initiative and extended its services in the field of early learning and child care. Guided and supported by the Journey Together Indigenous planning committee. SOAHAC will be the operators and licensee of Nshwaasnangong.

Nshwaasnangong is a place for Indigenous young children and families to honour, rekindle, and express their identities as Indigenous Peoples; where kindness and compassion helps everyone to have a sense of belonging; where we nurture our well-being, while living in sync with community and all creation; where we engage deeply with questions and possibilities.

The Child Care at Nshwaasnangong offers licensed child care for up to 88 children ages 0-6 years of age old. The adjoining Family Centre is a place to connect with opportunities offered for young children, families and youth – including ceremonies, land-based learning, knowledge exchange and community supports.

Position Summary

The Language Consultant will support the new Nshwaasnangong Child Care and Family Centre. The Language Consultant will engage and listen to the local urban Indigenous community and service providers and support the revitalization of Indigenous languages and cultures in the early years. This individual will also contribute to the communications work for Nshwaasnangong Child Care and Family Centre.

Reporting to the Family Centre Manager, the Language Consultants will represent Nshwaasnangong Child Care and Family Centre in the community with families and partners.

Requirements

• Fluency in Anishinaabemowin language
• Experience creating curriculum including lesson plans for a variety language learners
• Valid government issued driver’s license and access to a reliable vehicle
• First Aid and CPR Certificates
• Access to reliable transportation; valid Ontario Driver’s “G” license is an asset
• Maintain current and satisfactory vulnerable sector police check
• Up-to-date immunizations and records including COVID-19
• Must be available for evening and/or weekend meetings or programming.
• Willingness to participate in ongoing Indigenous training, teachings and ceremonies

Experience and Knowledge

• Demonstrated facilitation skills
• Demonstrated strong verbal, written and communication skills
• Proficient with the use of computers including Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) and internet usage, as well as any relevant educational software(s)
• One (1) year experience working with children is considered an asset
• Experience teaching in a First Nation school or organization is considered an asset
• Practical knowledge of How Does Learning Happen? Ontario’s Pedagogy for the Early Years
• Knowledge of Indigenous histories, cultures, creation stories, and languages of the Indigenous population in the London area
• Genuinely committed to helping children and families learn
• A clear and solid understanding of the issues faced by the urban Indigenous community
• Experience working in community

Responsibilities

• Plan and initiate an environment that promotes Language and Culture of the local indigenous population that protects the health, security and well-being of children
• Brings Nshwaasnangong’s Program Statement to life by reimagining early childhood education and emergent curriculum within an urban Indigenous context
• Knowledge of Indigenous pedagogical approaches that support How Does Learning Happen? Ontario’s Pedagogy for the Early Years
• Assess the abilities, interests and needs of children
• Establish guidelines for behavior
• Engage children in activities by telling stories, teaching songs and promoting creativity through media of art, dramatic play, music and physical activity
• Establish and maintain collaborative relationships with co-workers and community service providers working with children
• Observe children for signs of potential learning or behavioral problems and prepare reports for parents, guardians or Supervisor
• Guide and assist children in the development of proper eating, dressing and toilet habits
• Other duties as required or assigned by the CEO; Director, Indigenous relations, Nshwaasnangong Child Care & Family Centre management team or delegate

This job may require additional responsibilities and duties as assigned by Southwest Ontario Aboriginal Health Access Centre.

Please note that this is part-time position working towards full-time @ 25 hours (5 days) per week leading to full-time (35 hours/week). Salary is subject to experience. Optional pension (HOOPP) included.

SOAHAC values diversity and is an equal opportunity employer; however, hiring preference will be given to qualified Indigenous applicants. SOAHAC is committed to providing employment accommodation in accordance with the Ontario Human Rights Code and the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act. If you require accommodation to apply or if selected to participate in an assessment process, please advise Human Resources.

If you are interested in applying for this position, please forward your cover letter and resume before the closing date