The Role Of The Educator
At Connections Early Learning & Childcare Centre in downtown Calgary, educators are more than caregivers—they are co-learners, co-researchers, and intentional creators of meaningful early learning experiences. Their role is central in building environments that nurture emotional well-being, resilience, curiosity, and connection.
Reflective, Responsive, and Relationship-Focused
Educators at Connections engage in ongoing reflection about their teaching practices, interactions, and understanding of the “image of the child.” Through careful observation and documentation, including Learning Stories, educators capture children’s growth and tailor experiences to their interests, strengths, and developmental needs. Each educator receives dedicated weekly programming time to plan, reflect, and create meaningful documentation that supports continuous learning.
A Holistic, Blended Approach to Early Learning
Our curriculum is inspired by respected early learning philosophies, blending Reggio Emilia, Montessori, Emergent Curriculum, and the foundational principles of holistic, play-based early learning. We believe the environment is the third teacher, and our thoughtfully curated spaces invite children to explore, experiment, and engage at their own pace. Materials are open-ended, accessible, and designed to support child-led learning, independence, and discovery.
Guidance Rooted in Emotional Intelligence
Social-emotional development is at the heart of our Calgary childcare philosophy. Educators model empathy, kindness, and emotional regulation through calm, consistent, respectful interactions. In moments of challenge, they guide children with compassion—offering tools to identify feelings, navigate conflict, and build confidence in managing their emotions. Our approach supports children in developing strong emotional intelligence and healthy relationships.
Building Connection in a Changing World
Relationships are the foundation of high-quality early learning. Our educators build genuine, culturally responsive connections with every child and family—honouring their stories, strengths, and backgrounds. These relationships help children feel safe, valued, and deeply understood. We believe that strong educator-child connections lay the groundwork for lifelong confidence, compassion, and resilience.
Educator Responsibilities
Educators at Connections ELCC are expected to:
Respect each child as a capable, whole individual
Engage in meaningful, child-led play, exploration, and conversation
Acknowledge, validate, and support children’s emotions
Create inclusive environments where every child feels seen and valued
Model empathy, cooperation, problem-solving, and emotional regulation
Collaborate with families, specialists, and community partners to support each child’s unique learning needs
Uphold high standards of professionalism in all interactions
Professional Excellence & Ongoing Development
Connections ELCC is proud to employ passionate, qualified Early Childhood Educators who are committed to ongoing learning and excellence. All educators are required to hold an Early Childhood Education Diploma or Degree. Level 2 educators are supported in completing their Level 3 certification within 18 months of employment.
Our centre invests in educator growth through:
Ongoing professional development, including two annual PD days and year-round self-paced modules
Opportunities for leadership, voice, and open dialogue with directors
ARCQE’s “Reaching In… Reaching Out” resiliency training
Workshops with PACEkids and specialized partners to strengthen inclusive practices
Inclusive Advocacy for Every Child
Connections ELCC partners with trusted Calgary organizations—including Renfrew, GRIT, PREP, The LEAD Foundation, and Step by Step Early Intervention—to support children with diverse developmental needs. Educators play a vital role in observation, documentation, advocacy, and coordinating support, ensuring every child receives the resources they need to thrive.
At Connections ELCC, we view all children as resilient, capable, curious, and full of potential—and our educators are the heart of helping each child reach that potential. Through reflective practice, intentional relationships, and a commitment to high-quality childcare, our educators help children grow with confidence, connection, and joy.