Stepping Stones Crisis Society is seeking a Child Development Specialist to join their team based in Cold Lake. This position is full time and offers competitive compensation and comprehensive benefits.

Stepping Stones Crisis Society is dedicated to supporting individuals and families affected by domestic violence and crisis situations. Their mission is to provide a safe and nurturing environment where those in need can find refuge, support, and resources to rebuild their lives. They offer a range of services, including emergency shelter, counseling, education, and advocacy, all aimed at empowering clients to overcome their challenges and achieve long-term stability and safety.

This role includes developing, implementing, and evaluating programs that address the developmental, emotional, and social needs of children and youth who have been exposed to domestic violence or other crises. The Child Development Specialist also works closely with parents and guardians to provide education and support, enhancing their ability to care for their children effectively.

Primary Responsibilities:

• Plan and deliver age-appropriate, trauma-informed activities for children and youth, promoting physical, emotional, intellectual, and social development.
• Design and implement creative and interactive educational programs, including arts and crafts, storytelling, physical activities, and skill-building workshops.
• Develop and deliver youth-focused programs emphasizing emotional regulation, conflict resolution, and self-esteem building.
• Build trusting relationships with children, youth, and families to understand their needs and interests.
• Work collaboratively with mothers and guardians, offering parenting education and strategies to support their children's development.
• Act as an advocate for children and youth, addressing concerns about their mental or physical well-being and coordinating appropriate interventions.
• Coordinate with other community organizations to enhance programming and provide additional resources.
• Facilitate client engagement with community organizations by accompanying them to local organizations' events and programs.
• Ensure all programming aligns with organizational policies and meets the unique needs of children exposed to trauma.
• Maintain accurate records by ensuring compliance, confidentiality and reporting protocols.
• Prepare detailed monthly reports for programming, outcomes, attendance and areas for improvement.

Qualifications/ Skills:

• Early Childhood Development Certificate (Level II or III), Diploma in Child and Youth Care, or a related degree (preferred).
• 2-3 years of experience working in child development or a related field, preferably with children exposed to trauma or domestic violence.
• Ability to relate to clients in a non-judgmental manner and to respect client confidentiality.
• Experience in handling emergency situations, conflict resolution, and crisis intervention.
• Experience in completing assessments/intake, case planning/management and intervention.
• Strong organizational and time-management skills and be able to multi-task in a fast-paced environment.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, and computer skills.
• The ability to work independently with minimal supervision and in a team environment.
• Clear Criminal Record Check (Vulnerable Sector) and Child Intervention Check.
• Standard First Aid/CPR, ASIST Certification, and Non-Violent Crisis Intervention Training is considered an asset.
• Valid Class 5 Driver's license free from restrictions with acceptable driver's abstract.

Thank you to all applicants. Only those selected for interview will be contacted.

Recruitment supported by Lakeland HR.