Job outlooks for Early childhood educators and assistants

Discover the employment prospects for your dream job across Canada, or compare different occupations.

Occupation

early childhood educator (ECE) assistant (42202)

Location

All regions across Canada

Did you know? You can visit the Open Government Portal to search through and download our Employment Outlooks data all in one place. There, you will find current and previous versions of our 3-Year Employment Outlooks reports for the periods of 2013-2015 to 2024-2026. View the dataset on the Open Government Portal.

These outlooks were updated on December 11, 2024.

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  • Newfoundland and LabradorGood

    The employment outlook will be good for Early childhood educators and assistants (NOC 42202) in Newfoundland and Labrador for the 2024-2026 period.

    The following factors contributed to this outlook:

    • Employment growth will lead to several new positions.
    • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
    • There are a moderate number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.
    • High employee turnover in this occupation could lead to additional employment opportunities.

    As of December of 2023, the provincial government announced that 1,000 new spaces were created under the $10-a-day child care program. However, a shortage of early childhood educators remains, with parents having considerable difficulty finding child care as it takes time to recruit and train the workers to fill the need. Efforts are being made to attract those who left the occupation, and the new higher wage scale is geared towards attracting others to this line of work. A new benefits plan has been implemented for early childhood educators. In addition, the provincial government has created an early childhood retention grant which gives Level 1-4 educators who qualify up to $2,500 once they become certified through the Association of Early Childhood Educators of Newfoundland and Labrador. Educators would also receive $2,500 more when they recertify themselves with the association three years later, and another $2,500 three years after that.

    Here are some key facts about Early childhood educators and assistants in Newfoundland and Labrador:

    • Approximately 1,900 people work in this occupation.
    • Early childhood educators and assistants mainly work in the following sectors:
      • Social assistance (NAICS 624): 92%
    • The distribution of full-time and part-time workers in this occupation is:
      • Full-time workers: 80% compared to 83% for all occupations
      • Part-time workers: 20% compared to 17% for all occupations
    • 55% of early childhood educators and assistants work all year, while 45% work only part of the year, compared to 56% and 43% respectively among all occupations. Those who worked only part of the year did so for an average of 40 weeks compared to 40 weeks for all occupations.
    • 19% of early childhood educators and assistants are self-employed compared to an average of 8% for all occupations.
    • The gender distribution of people in this occupation is:
      • Men: less than 5% compared to 51% for all occupations
      • Women: more than 95% compared to 49% for all occupations
    • The educational attainment of workers in this occupation is:
      • no high school diploma: less than 5% compared to 11% for all occupations
      • high school diploma or equivalent: 24% compared to 27% for all occupations
      • apprenticeship or trades certificate or diploma: 9% compared to 17% for all occupations
      • college certificate or diploma or university certificate below bachelor's: 47% compared to 23% for all occupations
      • bachelor's degree: 14% compared to 14% for all occupations
      • university certificate, degree or diploma above bachelor level: less than 5% compared to 7% for all occupations

    Regional outlooks

    • Avalon Peninsula Region Good

      The employment outlook will be good for Early childhood educators and assistants (NOC 42202) in the Avalon Peninsula region for the 2024-2026 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to several new positions.
      • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.
      • High employee turnover in this occupation could lead to additional employment opportunities.

      Additional information is available at the provincial level.

      Here are some key facts about Early childhood educators and assistants in the Avalon Peninsula region:

      • Approximately 1,260 people work in this occupation.
      • Early childhood educators and assistants mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Social assistance (NAICS 624): 94%

    • Notre Dame-Central-Bonavista Bay Region Good

      The employment outlook will be good for Early childhood educators and assistants (NOC 42202) in the South Coast - Burin Peninsula and Notre Dame - Central Bonavista Bay regions for the 2024-2026 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to several new positions.
      • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a moderate number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.
      • High employee turnover in this occupation could lead to additional employment opportunities.

      Additional information is available at the provincial level.

      Here are some key facts about Early childhood educators and assistants in the South Coast - Burin Peninsula and Notre Dame - Central Bonavista Bay regions:

      • Early childhood educators and assistants mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Social assistance (NAICS 624): 87%
        • Educational services (NAICS 61): 13%

    • South Coast–Burin Peninsula Region Good

      The employment outlook will be good for Early childhood educators and assistants (NOC 42202) in the South Coast - Burin Peninsula and Notre Dame - Central Bonavista Bay regions for the 2024-2026 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to several new positions.
      • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a moderate number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.
      • High employee turnover in this occupation could lead to additional employment opportunities.

      Additional information is available at the provincial level.

      Here are some key facts about Early childhood educators and assistants in the South Coast - Burin Peninsula and Notre Dame - Central Bonavista Bay regions:

      • Approximately 360 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
      • Early childhood educators and assistants mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Social assistance (NAICS 624): 87%
        • Educational services (NAICS 61): 13%

    • West Coast–Northern Peninsula–Labrador Region Good

      The employment outlook will be good for Early childhood educators and assistants (NOC 42202) in the West Coast - Northern Peninsula - Labrador region for the 2024-2026 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to several new positions.
      • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a moderate number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.
      • High employee turnover in this occupation could lead to additional employment opportunities.

      Additional information is available at the provincial level.

      Here are some key facts about Early childhood educators and assistants in the West Coast - Northern Peninsula - Labrador region:

      • Approximately 270 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
      • Early childhood educators and assistants mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Social assistance (NAICS 624): 84%
        • Educational services (NAICS 61): 16%

  • Prince Edward IslandVery good

    The employment outlook will be very good for Early childhood educators and assistants (NOC 42202) in Prince Edward Island for the 2024-2026 period.

    The following factors contributed to this outlook:

    • Employment growth will lead to several new positions.
    • A moderate number of positions will become available due to retirements.
    • There are a moderate number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.
    • High employee turnover in this occupation could lead to additional employment opportunities.

    Here are some key facts about Early childhood educators and assistants in Prince Edward Island:

    • Approximately 1,000 people work in this occupation.
    • Early childhood educators and assistants mainly work in the following sectors:
      • Social assistance (NAICS 624): more than 95%
    • The distribution of full-time and part-time workers in this occupation is:
      • Full-time workers: 84% compared to 84% for all occupations
      • Part-time workers: 17% compared to 16% for all occupations
    • 52% of early childhood educators and assistants work all year, while 48% work only part of the year, compared to 59% and 41% respectively among all occupations. Those who worked only part of the year did so for an average of 40 weeks compared to 41 weeks for all occupations.
    • 8% of early childhood educators and assistants are self-employed compared to an average of 13% for all occupations.
    • The gender distribution of people in this occupation is:
      • Men: less than 5% compared to 51% for all occupations
      • Women: more than 95% compared to 49% for all occupations
    • The educational attainment of workers in this occupation is:
      • no high school diploma: less than 5% compared to 11% for all occupations
      • high school diploma or equivalent: 30% compared to 28% for all occupations
      • apprenticeship or trades certificate or diploma: 8% compared to 11% for all occupations
      • college certificate or diploma or university certificate below bachelor's: 44% compared to 25% for all occupations
      • bachelor's degree: 11% compared to 17% for all occupations
      • university certificate, degree or diploma above bachelor level: less than 5% compared to 8% for all occupations

  • Nova ScotiaVery good

    The employment outlook will be very good for Early childhood educators and assistants (NOC 42202) in Nova Scotia for the 2024-2026 period.

    The following factors contributed to this outlook:

    • Employment growth will lead to several new positions.
    • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
    • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.
    • High employee turnover in this occupation could lead to additional employment opportunities.

    There is very strong demand for early childhood educators (ECEs) related to the ongoing implementation of the Nova Scotia Canada-Wide Early Learning and Child Care Agreement. The number of ECE positions is expected to continue to increase through 2026 due to the planned creation of several thousand new child care spaces under the agreement. Qualified jobseekers should have little difficulty finding employment throughout the province.


    Jobseekers with basic ECE certification may benefit from further professional development and upskilling through a variety of programs offered by the provincial government under the Nova Scotia Excellence in Early Childhood Education Workforce Strategy.

    Here are some key facts about Early childhood educators and assistants in Nova Scotia:

    • Approximately 4,950 people work in this occupation.
    • Early childhood educators and assistants mainly work in the following sectors:
      • Social assistance (NAICS 624): 80%
      • Elementary and secondary schools (NAICS 6111): 15%
    • The distribution of full-time and part-time workers in this occupation is:
      • Full-time workers: 83% compared to 82% for all occupations
      • Part-time workers: 17% compared to 18% for all occupations
    • 49% of early childhood educators and assistants work all year, while 51% work only part of the year, compared to 62% and 38% respectively among all occupations. Those who worked only part of the year did so for an average of 40 weeks compared to 42 weeks for all occupations.
    • 11% of early childhood educators and assistants are self-employed compared to an average of 11% for all occupations.
    • The gender distribution of people in this occupation is:
      • Men: less than 5% compared to 51% for all occupations
      • Women: more than 95% compared to 49% for all occupations
    • The educational attainment of workers in this occupation is:
      • no high school diploma: less than 5% compared to 10% for all occupations
      • high school diploma or equivalent: 18% compared to 27% for all occupations
      • apprenticeship or trades certificate or diploma: 8% compared to 12% for all occupations
      • college certificate or diploma or university certificate below bachelor's: 44% compared to 22% for all occupations
      • bachelor's degree: 20% compared to 20% for all occupations
      • university certificate, degree or diploma above bachelor level: less than 5% compared to 10% for all occupations

    Regional outlooks

    • Annapolis Valley Region Very good

      The employment outlook will be very good for Early childhood educators and assistants (NOC 42202) in the Annapolis Valley region for the 2024-2026 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to several new positions.
      • A moderate number of positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a moderate number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.
      • High employee turnover in this occupation could lead to additional employment opportunities.

      Additional information is available at the provincial level.

      Here are some key facts about Early childhood educators and assistants in the Annapolis Valley region:

      • Approximately 870 people work in this occupation.
      • Early childhood educators and assistants mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Nursing and social assistance (NAICS 623-624): 77%
        • Educational services (NAICS 61): 21%

    • Cape Breton Region Very good

      The employment outlook will be very good for Early childhood educators and assistants (NOC 42202) in the Cape Breton region for the 2024-2026 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to several new positions.
      • A moderate number of positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a moderate number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.
      • High employee turnover in this occupation could lead to additional employment opportunities.

      Additional information is available at the provincial level.

      Here are some key facts about Early childhood educators and assistants in the Cape Breton region:

      • Approximately 540 people work in this occupation.
      • Early childhood educators and assistants mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Nursing and social assistance (NAICS 623-624): 81%
        • Educational services (NAICS 61): 19%

    • Halifax Region Very good

      The employment outlook will be very good for Early childhood educators and assistants (NOC 42202) in the Halifax region for the 2024-2026 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to several new positions.
      • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.
      • High employee turnover in this occupation could lead to additional employment opportunities.

      Additional information is available at the provincial level.

      Here are some key facts about Early childhood educators and assistants in the Halifax region:

      • Approximately 2,670 people work in this occupation.
      • Early childhood educators and assistants mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Nursing and social assistance (NAICS 623-624): 80%
        • Educational services (NAICS 61): 18%

    • North Shore Region Very good

      The employment outlook will be very good for Early childhood educators and assistants (NOC 42202) in the North Shore region for the 2024-2026 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to several new positions.
      • A moderate number of positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a moderate number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.
      • High employee turnover in this occupation could lead to additional employment opportunities.

      Additional information is available at the provincial level.

      Here are some key facts about Early childhood educators and assistants in the North Shore region:

      • Approximately 500 people work in this occupation.
      • Early childhood educators and assistants mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Nursing and social assistance (NAICS 623-624): 79%
        • Educational services (NAICS 61): 20%

    • Southern Region Very good

      The employment outlook will be very good for Early childhood educators and assistants (NOC 42202) in the Southern region for the 2024-2026 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to several new positions.
      • A moderate number of positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a moderate number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.
      • High employee turnover in this occupation could lead to additional employment opportunities.

      Additional information is available at the provincial level.

      Here are some key facts about Early childhood educators and assistants in the Southern region:

      • Approximately 450 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
      • Early childhood educators and assistants mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Nursing and social assistance (NAICS 623-624): 81%
        • Educational services (NAICS 61): 16%

  • New BrunswickGood

    The employment outlook will be good for Early childhood educators and assistants (NOC 42202) in New Brunswick for the 2024-2026 period.

    The following factors contributed to this outlook:

    • Employment growth will lead to a moderate number of new positions.
    • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
    • There are a moderate number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.
    • High employee turnover in this occupation could lead to additional employment opportunities.
    • Employers often prefer candidates with a diploma or degree in Early Childhood Education (or related programming). Having experience implementing programs and evaluating childhood development in a daycare setting will also be valuable. Additional duties may include coming up with creative and educational activities, preparing and serving snacks and maintaining a clean environment for the children.
    • Educators and assistants working with special needs students may require post-secondary education in a relevant field and may need to demonstrate additional skills such as knowledge of sign language, braille, assistive/adaptive devices, and special education techniques.
    • The Canada-New Brunswick Canada-Wide Early Learning and Child Care Agreement is leading to the creation of additional daycare and related spaces throughout the province, increasing demand for those who work in this field.
    • A criminal background and a vulnerable sector checks are typically required in order to work in this field.
    • First Aid and CPR training are generally required.

    Here are some key facts about Early childhood educators and assistants in New Brunswick:

    • Approximately 4,550 people work in this occupation.
    • Early childhood educators and assistants mainly work in the following sectors:
      • Social assistance (NAICS 624): 90%
      • Elementary and secondary schools (NAICS 6111): 6%
    • The distribution of full-time and part-time workers in this occupation is:
      • Full-time workers: 81% compared to 84% for all occupations
      • Part-time workers: 19% compared to 16% for all occupations
    • 44% of early childhood educators and assistants work all year, while 56% work only part of the year, compared to 62% and 38% respectively among all occupations. Those who worked only part of the year did so for an average of 39 weeks compared to 42 weeks for all occupations.
    • 10% of early childhood educators and assistants are self-employed compared to an average of 10% for all occupations.
    • The gender distribution of people in this occupation is:
      • Men: less than 5% compared to 52% for all occupations
      • Women: more than 95% compared to 48% for all occupations
    • The educational attainment of workers in this occupation is:
      • no high school diploma: 5% compared to 11% for all occupations
      • high school diploma or equivalent: 28% compared to 30% for all occupations
      • apprenticeship or trades certificate or diploma: 10% compared to 12% for all occupations
      • college certificate or diploma or university certificate below bachelor's: 40% compared to 23% for all occupations
      • bachelor's degree: 14% compared to 16% for all occupations
      • university certificate, degree or diploma above bachelor level: less than 5% compared to 7% for all occupations

    Regional outlooks

    • Campbellton–Miramichi Region Good

      The employment outlook will be good for Early childhood educators and assistants (NOC 42202) in the Campbellton - Miramichi region for the 2024-2026 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to several new positions.
      • A moderate number of positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a moderate number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.
      • High employee turnover in this occupation could lead to additional employment opportunities.
      • Employers often prefer candidates with a diploma or degree in Early Childhood Education (or related programming). Having experience implementing programs and evaluating childhood development in a daycare setting will also be valuable. Additional duties may include coming up with creative and educational activities, preparing and serving snacks and maintaining a clean environment for the children.
      • Educators and assistants working with special needs students may require post-secondary education in a relevant field and may need to demonstrate additional skills such as knowledge of sign language, braille, assistive/adaptive devices, and special education techniques.
      • The Canada-New Brunswick Canada-Wide Early Learning and Child Care Agreement is leading to the creation of additional daycare and related spaces throughout the province, increasing demand for those who work in this field.
      • A criminal background and a vulnerable sector checks are typically required in order to work in this field.
      • First Aid and CPR training are generally required.

      Here are some key facts about Early childhood educators and assistants in the Campbellton - Miramichi region:

      • Approximately 720 people work in this occupation.
      • Early childhood educators and assistants mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Social assistance (NAICS 624): 87%
        • Educational services (NAICS 61): 9%

    • Edmundston–Woodstock Region Good

      The employment outlook will be good for Early childhood educators and assistants (NOC 42202) in the Edmundston - Woodstock region for the 2024-2026 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to several new positions.
      • A moderate number of positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a moderate number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.
      • High employee turnover in this occupation could lead to additional employment opportunities.
      • Employers often prefer candidates with a diploma or degree in Early Childhood Education (or related programming). Having experience implementing programs and evaluating childhood development in a daycare setting will also be valuable. Additional duties may include coming up with creative and educational activities, preparing and serving snacks and maintaining a clean environment for the children.
      • Educators and assistants working with special needs students may require post-secondary education in a relevant field and may need to demonstrate additional skills such as knowledge of sign language, braille, assistive/adaptive devices, and special education techniques.
      • The Canada-New Brunswick Canada-Wide Early Learning and Child Care Agreement is leading to the creation of additional daycare and related spaces throughout the province, increasing demand for those who work in this field.
      • A criminal background and a vulnerable sector checks are typically required in order to work in this field.
      • First Aid and CPR training are generally required.

      Here are some key facts about Early childhood educators and assistants in the Edmundston - Woodstock region:

      • Approximately 400 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
      • Early childhood educators and assistants mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Social assistance (NAICS 624): 84%
        • Educational services (NAICS 61): 16%

    • Fredericton–Oromocto Good

      The employment outlook will be good for Early childhood educators and assistants (NOC 42202) in the Fredericton - Oromocto region for the 2024-2026 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to a moderate number of new positions.
      • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.
      • High employee turnover in this occupation could lead to additional employment opportunities.
      • Employers often prefer candidates with a diploma or degree in Early Childhood Education (or related programming). Having experience implementing programs and evaluating childhood development in a daycare setting will also be valuable. Additional duties may include coming up with creative and educational activities, preparing and serving snacks and maintaining a clean environment for the children.
      • Educators and assistants working with special needs students may require post-secondary education in a relevant field and may need to demonstrate additional skills such as knowledge of sign language, braille, assistive/adaptive devices, and special education techniques.
      • The Canada-New Brunswick Canada-Wide Early Learning and Child Care Agreement is leading to the creation of additional daycare and related spaces throughout the province, increasing demand for those who work in this field.
      • A criminal background and a vulnerable sector checks are typically required in order to work in this field.
      • First Aid and CPR training are generally required.

      Here are some key facts about Early childhood educators and assistants in the Fredericton - Oromocto region:

      • Approximately 1,020 people work in this occupation.
      • Early childhood educators and assistants mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Social assistance (NAICS 624): 91%
        • Educational services (NAICS 61): 6%

    • Moncton–Richibucto Region Good

      The employment outlook will be good for Early childhood educators and assistants (NOC 42202) in the Moncton - Richibucto region for the 2024-2026 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to a moderate number of new positions.
      • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.
      • High employee turnover in this occupation could lead to additional employment opportunities.
      • Employers often prefer candidates with a diploma or degree in Early Childhood Education (or related programming). Having experience implementing programs and evaluating childhood development in a daycare setting will also be valuable. Additional duties may include coming up with creative and educational activities, preparing and serving snacks and maintaining a clean environment for the children.
      • Educators and assistants working with special needs students may require post-secondary education in a relevant field and may need to demonstrate additional skills such as knowledge of sign language, braille, assistive/adaptive devices, and special education techniques.
      • The Canada-New Brunswick Canada-Wide Early Learning and Child Care Agreement is leading to the creation of additional daycare and related spaces throughout the province, increasing demand for those who work in this field.
      • A criminal background and a vulnerable sector checks are typically required in order to work in this field.
      • First Aid and CPR training are generally required.

      Here are some key facts about Early childhood educators and assistants in the Moncton - Richibucto region:

      • Approximately 1,330 people work in this occupation.
      • Early childhood educators and assistants mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Social assistance (NAICS 624): 92%
        • Educational services (NAICS 61): 6%

    • Saint John–St. Stephen Region Good

      The employment outlook will be good for Early childhood educators and assistants (NOC 42202) in the Saint John - St. Stephen region for the 2024-2026 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to a moderate number of new positions.
      • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.
      • High employee turnover in this occupation could lead to additional employment opportunities.
      • Employers often prefer candidates with a diploma or degree in Early Childhood Education (or related programming). Having experience implementing programs and evaluating childhood development in a daycare setting will also be valuable. Additional duties may include coming up with creative and educational activities, preparing and serving snacks and maintaining a clean environment for the children.
      • Educators and assistants working with special needs students may require post-secondary education in a relevant field and may need to demonstrate additional skills such as knowledge of sign language, braille, assistive/adaptive devices, and special education techniques.
      • The Canada-New Brunswick Canada-Wide Early Learning and Child Care Agreement is leading to the creation of additional daycare and related spaces throughout the province, increasing demand for those who work in this field.
      • A criminal background and a vulnerable sector checks are typically required in order to work in this field.
      • First Aid and CPR training are generally required.

      Here are some key facts about Early childhood educators and assistants in the Saint John - St. Stephen region:

      • Approximately 1,180 people work in this occupation.
      • Early childhood educators and assistants mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Social assistance (NAICS 624): 94%
        • Educational services (NAICS 61): 5%

  • QuebecModerate

    The employment outlook will be moderate for Early childhood educators and assistants (NOC 42202) in Quebec for the 2024-2026 period.

    The following factors contributed to this outlook:

    • Employment growth will lead to several new positions.
    • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
    • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

    Employment in this occupation is dependent on the number of children attending early childhood centres, childcare centres and school-based childcare services, as well as government funding for these various services. 

    Demographically, the number of preschoolers and primary school students is expected to decrease slightly across Quebec by 2026.                

    However, there is a long waiting list for childcare spaces due to the backlog of many childcare centre projects, higher construction costs, the labour shortage, and the closure of many family daycare centres between 2018 and 2022.

    As the government is committed to creating several thousand childcare spaces, there is a significant demand for workers in this occupation, particularly for qualified educators. Measures were also implemented to foster recruitment, including a scholarship program for which childcare technology students are eligible and a paid on-the-job training program. 

    While the outlook is moderate across Quebec, it is good in Quebec's 12 economic regions. 

    Here are some key facts about Early childhood educators and assistants in Quebec:

    • Approximately 80,250 people work in this occupation.
    • Early childhood educators and assistants mainly work in the following sectors:
      • Social assistance (NAICS 624): 77%
      • Elementary and secondary schools (NAICS 6111): 20%
    • The distribution of full-time and part-time workers in this occupation is:
      • Full-time workers: 77% compared to 82% for all occupations
      • Part-time workers: 23% compared to 18% for all occupations
    • 52% of early childhood educators and assistants work all year, while 48% work only part of the year, compared to 62% and 38% respectively among all occupations. Those who worked only part of the year did so for an average of 42 weeks compared to 43 weeks for all occupations.
    • 18% of early childhood educators and assistants are self-employed compared to an average of 12% for all occupations.
    • The gender distribution of people in this occupation is:
      • Men: less than 5% compared to 52% for all occupations
      • Women: more than 95% compared to 48% for all occupations
    • The educational attainment of workers in this occupation is:
      • no high school diploma: 7% compared to 12% for all occupations
      • high school diploma or equivalent: 16% compared to 19% for all occupations
      • apprenticeship or trades certificate or diploma: 15% compared to 19% for all occupations
      • college certificate or diploma or university certificate below bachelor's: 44% compared to 22% for all occupations
      • bachelor's degree: 14% compared to 17% for all occupations
      • university certificate, degree or diploma above bachelor level: less than 5% compared to 11% for all occupations

    Regional outlooks

    • Abitibi-Témiscamingue Region Good

      The employment outlook will be good for Early childhood educators and assistants (NOC 42202) in the Abitibi - Témiscamingue region for the 2024-2026 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to several new positions.
      • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Employment in this occupation is dependent on the number of children attending early childhood centres, childcare centres and school-based childcare services, as well as government funding for these various services. 

      Demographically, the number of preschoolers and primary school students is expected to decrease slightly across Quebec by 2026.                

      However, there is a long waiting list for childcare spaces due to the backlog of many childcare centre projects, higher construction costs, the labour shortage, and the closure of many family daycare centres between 2018 and 2022.

      As the government is committed to creating several thousand childcare spaces, there is a significant demand for workers in this occupation, particularly for qualified educators. Measures were also implemented to foster recruitment, including a scholarship program for which childcare technology students are eligible and a paid on-the-job training program. 

      While the outlook is moderate across Quebec, it is good in Quebec's 12 economic regions. 

      Here are some key facts about Early childhood educators and assistants in the Abitibi - Témiscamingue region:

      • Approximately 1,600 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
      • Early childhood educators and assistants mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Nursing and residential care facilities and social assistance (NAICS 623-624): 75%
        • Educational services (NAICS 61): 22%

    • Bas-Saint-Laurent Region Good

      The employment outlook will be good for Early childhood educators and assistants (NOC 42202) in the Bas-Saint-Laurent region for the 2024-2026 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to several new positions.
      • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Employment in this occupation is dependent on the number of children attending early childhood centres, childcare centres and school-based childcare services, as well as government funding for these various services. 

      Demographically, the number of preschoolers and primary school students is expected to decrease slightly across Quebec by 2026.                

      However, there is a long waiting list for childcare spaces due to the backlog of many childcare centre projects, higher construction costs, the labour shortage, and the closure of many family daycare centres between 2018 and 2022.

      As the government is committed to creating several thousand childcare spaces, there is a significant demand for workers in this occupation, particularly for qualified educators. Measures were also implemented to foster recruitment, including a scholarship program for which childcare technology students are eligible and a paid on-the-job training program. 

      While the outlook is moderate across Quebec, it is good in Quebec's 12 economic regions. 

      Here are some key facts about Early childhood educators and assistants in the Bas-Saint-Laurent region:

      • Approximately 1,660 people work in this occupation.
      • Early childhood educators and assistants mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Nursing and residential care facilities and social assistance (NAICS 623-624): 72%
        • Educational services (NAICS 61): 26%

    • Capitale-Nationale Region Good

      The employment outlook will be good for Early childhood educators and assistants (NOC 42202) in the Capitale-Nationale region for the 2024-2026 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to several new positions.
      • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Employment in this occupation is dependent on the number of children attending early childhood centres, childcare centres and school-based childcare services, as well as government funding for these various services. 

      Demographically, the number of preschoolers and primary school students is expected to decrease slightly across Quebec by 2026.                

      However, there is a long waiting list for childcare spaces due to the backlog of many childcare centre projects, higher construction costs, the labour shortage, and the closure of many family daycare centres between 2018 and 2022.

      As the government is committed to creating several thousand childcare spaces, there is a significant demand for workers in this occupation, particularly for qualified educators. Measures were also implemented to foster recruitment, including a scholarship program for which childcare technology students are eligible and a paid on-the-job training program. 

      While the outlook is moderate across Quebec, it is good in Quebec's 12 economic regions. 

      Here are some key facts about Early childhood educators and assistants in the Capitale-Nationale region:

      • Approximately 7,280 people work in this occupation.
      • Early childhood educators and assistants mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Nursing and residential care facilities and social assistance (NAICS 623-624): 67%
        • Educational services (NAICS 61): 30%

    • Centre-du-Québec Region Good

      The employment outlook will be good for Early childhood educators and assistants (NOC 42202) in the Centre-du-Québec region for the 2024-2026 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to several new positions.
      • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Employment in this occupation is dependent on the number of children attending early childhood centres, childcare centres and school-based childcare services, as well as government funding for these various services. 

      Demographically, the number of preschoolers and primary school students is expected to decrease slightly across Quebec by 2026.                

      However, there is a long waiting list for childcare spaces due to the backlog of many childcare centre projects, higher construction costs, the labour shortage, and the closure of many family daycare centres between 2018 and 2022.

      As the government is committed to creating several thousand childcare spaces, there is a significant demand for workers in this occupation, particularly for qualified educators. Measures were also implemented to foster recruitment, including a scholarship program for which childcare technology students are eligible and a paid on-the-job training program. 

      While the outlook is moderate across Quebec, it is good in Quebec's 12 economic regions. 

      Here are some key facts about Early childhood educators and assistants in the Centre-du-Québec region:

      • Approximately 2,620 people work in this occupation.
      • Early childhood educators and assistants mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Nursing and residential care facilities and social assistance (NAICS 623-624): 83%
        • Educational services (NAICS 61): 13%

    • Chaudière-Appalaches Region Good

      The employment outlook will be good for Early childhood educators and assistants (NOC 42202) in the Chaudière - Appalaches region for the 2024-2026 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to several new positions.
      • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Employment in this occupation is dependent on the number of children attending early childhood centres, childcare centres and school-based childcare services, as well as government funding for these various services. 

      Demographically, the number of preschoolers and primary school students is expected to decrease slightly across Quebec by 2026.                

      However, there is a long waiting list for childcare spaces due to the backlog of many childcare centre projects, higher construction costs, the labour shortage, and the closure of many family daycare centres between 2018 and 2022.

      As the government is committed to creating several thousand childcare spaces, there is a significant demand for workers in this occupation, particularly for qualified educators. Measures were also implemented to foster recruitment, including a scholarship program for which childcare technology students are eligible and a paid on-the-job training program. 

      While the outlook is moderate across Quebec, it is good in Quebec's 12 economic regions. 

      Here are some key facts about Early childhood educators and assistants in the Chaudière - Appalaches region:

      • Approximately 5,300 people work in this occupation.
      • Early childhood educators and assistants mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Nursing and residential care facilities and social assistance (NAICS 623-624): 78%
        • Educational services (NAICS 61): 19%

    • Côte-Nord Region Limited

      The employment outlook will be limited for Early childhood educators and assistants (NOC 42202) in the Côte-Nord and Nord-du-Québec regions for the 2024-2026 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to several new positions.
      • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a moderate number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Employment in this occupation is dependent on the number of children attending early childhood centres, childcare centres and school-based childcare services, as well as government funding for these various services. 

      Demographically, the number of preschoolers and primary school students is expected to decrease slightly across Quebec by 2026.                

      However, there is a long waiting list for childcare spaces due to the backlog of many childcare centre projects, higher construction costs, the labour shortage, and the closure of many family daycare centres between 2018 and 2022.

      As the government is committed to creating several thousand childcare spaces, there is a significant demand for workers in this occupation, particularly for qualified educators. Measures were also implemented to foster recruitment, including a scholarship program for which childcare technology students are eligible and a paid on-the-job training program. 

      While the outlook is moderate across Quebec, it is good in Quebec's 12 economic regions. 

      Here are some key facts about Early childhood educators and assistants in the Côte-Nord and Nord-du-Québec regions:

      • Approximately 1,670 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
      • Early childhood educators and assistants mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Nursing and residential care facilities and social assistance (NAICS 623-624): 87%
        • Educational services (NAICS 61): 10%

    • Estrie Region Good

      The employment outlook will be good for Early childhood educators and assistants (NOC 42202) in the Estrie region for the 2024-2026 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to several new positions.
      • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Employment in this occupation is dependent on the number of children attending early childhood centres, childcare centres and school-based childcare services, as well as government funding for these various services. 

      Demographically, the number of preschoolers and primary school students is expected to decrease slightly across Quebec by 2026.                

      However, there is a long waiting list for childcare spaces due to the backlog of many childcare centre projects, higher construction costs, the labour shortage, and the closure of many family daycare centres between 2018 and 2022.

      As the government is committed to creating several thousand childcare spaces, there is a significant demand for workers in this occupation, particularly for qualified educators. Measures were also implemented to foster recruitment, including a scholarship program for which childcare technology students are eligible and a paid on-the-job training program. 

      While the outlook is moderate across Quebec, it is good in Quebec's 12 economic regions. 

      Here are some key facts about Early childhood educators and assistants in the Estrie region:

      • Approximately 3,110 people work in this occupation.
      • Early childhood educators and assistants mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Nursing and residential care facilities and social assistance (NAICS 623-624): 78%
        • Educational services (NAICS 61): 19%

    • Gaspésie–Îles-de-la-Madeleine Region Good

      The employment outlook will be good for Early childhood educators and assistants (NOC 42202) in the Gaspésie - Îles-de-la-Madeleine region for the 2024-2026 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to several new positions.
      • A moderate number of positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a moderate number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Employment in this occupation is dependent on the number of children attending early childhood centres, childcare centres and school-based childcare services, as well as government funding for these various services. 

      Demographically, the number of preschoolers and primary school students is expected to decrease slightly across Quebec by 2026.                

      However, there is a long waiting list for childcare spaces due to the backlog of many childcare centre projects, higher construction costs, the labour shortage, and the closure of many family daycare centres between 2018 and 2022.

      As the government is committed to creating several thousand childcare spaces, there is a significant demand for workers in this occupation, particularly for qualified educators. Measures were also implemented to foster recruitment, including a scholarship program for which childcare technology students are eligible and a paid on-the-job training program. 

      While the outlook is moderate across Quebec, it is good in Quebec's 12 economic regions. 

      Here are some key facts about Early childhood educators and assistants in the Gaspésie - Îles-de-la-Madeleine region:

      • Approximately 670 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
      • Early childhood educators and assistants mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Nursing and residential care facilities and social assistance (NAICS 623-624): 72%
        • Educational services (NAICS 61): 25%

    • Lanaudière Region Good

      The employment outlook will be good for Early childhood educators and assistants (NOC 42202) in the Lanaudière region for the 2024-2026 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to several new positions.
      • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Employment in this occupation is dependent on the number of children attending early childhood centres, childcare centres and school-based childcare services, as well as government funding for these various services. 

      Demographically, the number of preschoolers and primary school students is expected to decrease slightly across Quebec by 2026.                

      However, there is a long waiting list for childcare spaces due to the backlog of many childcare centre projects, higher construction costs, the labour shortage, and the closure of many family daycare centres between 2018 and 2022.

      As the government is committed to creating several thousand childcare spaces, there is a significant demand for workers in this occupation, particularly for qualified educators. Measures were also implemented to foster recruitment, including a scholarship program for which childcare technology students are eligible and a paid on-the-job training program. 

      While the outlook is moderate across Quebec, it is good in Quebec's 12 economic regions. 

      Here are some key facts about Early childhood educators and assistants in the Lanaudière region:

      • Approximately 5,000 people work in this occupation.
      • Early childhood educators and assistants mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Nursing and residential care facilities and social assistance (NAICS 623-624): 63%
        • Educational services (NAICS 61): 34%

    • Laurentides Region Good

      The employment outlook will be good for Early childhood educators and assistants (NOC 42202) in the Laurentides region for the 2024-2026 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to several new positions.
      • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Employment in this occupation is dependent on the number of children attending early childhood centres, childcare centres and school-based childcare services, as well as government funding for these various services. 

      Demographically, the number of preschoolers and primary school students is expected to decrease slightly across Quebec by 2026.                

      However, there is a long waiting list for childcare spaces due to the backlog of many childcare centre projects, higher construction costs, the labour shortage, and the closure of many family daycare centres between 2018 and 2022.

      As the government is committed to creating several thousand childcare spaces, there is a significant demand for workers in this occupation, particularly for qualified educators. Measures were also implemented to foster recruitment, including a scholarship program for which childcare technology students are eligible and a paid on-the-job training program. 

      While the outlook is moderate across Quebec, it is good in Quebec's 12 economic regions. 

      Here are some key facts about Early childhood educators and assistants in the Laurentides region:

      • Approximately 3,970 people work in this occupation.
      • Early childhood educators and assistants mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Nursing and residential care facilities and social assistance (NAICS 623-624): 66%
        • Educational services (NAICS 61): 28%

    • Laval Region Moderate

      The employment outlook will be moderate for Early childhood educators and assistants (NOC 42202) in the census metropolitan area of Montréal, including the Laval region, for the 2024-2026 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to a moderate number of new positions.
      • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Employment in this occupation is dependent on the number of children attending early childhood centres, childcare centres and school-based childcare services, as well as government funding for these various services. 

      Demographically, the number of preschoolers and primary school students is expected to decrease slightly across Quebec by 2026.                

      However, there is a long waiting list for childcare spaces due to the backlog of many childcare centre projects, higher construction costs, the labour shortage, and the closure of many family daycare centres between 2018 and 2022.

      As the government is committed to creating several thousand childcare spaces, there is a significant demand for workers in this occupation, particularly for qualified educators. Measures were also implemented to foster recruitment, including a scholarship program for which childcare technology students are eligible and a paid on-the-job training program. 

      While the outlook is moderate across Quebec, it is good in Quebec's 12 economic regions. 

      Here are some key facts about Early childhood educators and assistants in the census metropolitan area of Montréal, including the Laval region:

      • Approximately 46,150 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.

    • Mauricie Region Good

      The employment outlook will be good for Early childhood educators and assistants (NOC 42202) in the Mauricie region for the 2024-2026 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to several new positions.
      • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Employment in this occupation is dependent on the number of children attending early childhood centres, childcare centres and school-based childcare services, as well as government funding for these various services. 

      Demographically, the number of preschoolers and primary school students is expected to decrease slightly across Quebec by 2026.                

      However, there is a long waiting list for childcare spaces due to the backlog of many childcare centre projects, higher construction costs, the labour shortage, and the closure of many family daycare centres between 2018 and 2022.

      As the government is committed to creating several thousand childcare spaces, there is a significant demand for workers in this occupation, particularly for qualified educators. Measures were also implemented to foster recruitment, including a scholarship program for which childcare technology students are eligible and a paid on-the-job training program. 

      While the outlook is moderate across Quebec, it is good in Quebec's 12 economic regions. 

      Here are some key facts about Early childhood educators and assistants in the Mauricie region:

      • Approximately 2,570 people work in this occupation.
      • Early childhood educators and assistants mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Nursing and residential care facilities and social assistance (NAICS 623-624): 63%
        • Educational services (NAICS 61): 34%

    • Montréal Region Moderate

      The employment outlook will be moderate for Early childhood educators and assistants (NOC 42202) in the census metropolitan area of Montréal for the 2024-2026 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to a moderate number of new positions.
      • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Employment in this occupation is dependent on the number of children attending early childhood centres, childcare centres and school-based childcare services, as well as government funding for these various services. 

      Demographically, the number of preschoolers and primary school students is expected to decrease slightly across Quebec by 2026.                

      However, there is a long waiting list for childcare spaces due to the backlog of many childcare centre projects, higher construction costs, the labour shortage, and the closure of many family daycare centres between 2018 and 2022.

      As the government is committed to creating several thousand childcare spaces, there is a significant demand for workers in this occupation, particularly for qualified educators. Measures were also implemented to foster recruitment, including a scholarship program for which childcare technology students are eligible and a paid on-the-job training program. 

      While the outlook is moderate across Quebec, it is good in Quebec's 12 economic regions. 

      Here are some key facts about Early childhood educators and assistants in the census metropolitan area of Montréal:

      • Approximately 46,150 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.

    • Montérégie Region Moderate

      The employment outlook will be moderate for Early childhood educators and assistants (NOC 42202) in the Montérégie region for the 2024-2026 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to several new positions.
      • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Employment in this occupation is dependent on the number of children attending early childhood centres, childcare centres and school-based childcare services, as well as government funding for these various services. 

      Demographically, the number of preschoolers and primary school students is expected to decrease slightly across Quebec by 2026.                

      However, there is a long waiting list for childcare spaces due to the backlog of many childcare centre projects, higher construction costs, the labour shortage, and the closure of many family daycare centres between 2018 and 2022.

      As the government is committed to creating several thousand childcare spaces, there is a significant demand for workers in this occupation, particularly for qualified educators. Measures were also implemented to foster recruitment, including a scholarship program for which childcare technology students are eligible and a paid on-the-job training program. 

      While the outlook is moderate across Quebec, it is good in Quebec's 12 economic regions. 

      Here are some key facts about Early childhood educators and assistants in the Montérégie region:

      • Approximately 16,970 people work in this occupation.
      • Early childhood educators and assistants mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Nursing and residential care facilities and social assistance (NAICS 623-624): 68%
        • Educational services (NAICS 61): 28%

    • Nord-du-Québec Region Limited

      The employment outlook will be limited for Early childhood educators and assistants (NOC 42202) in the Côte-Nord and Nord-du-Québec regions for the 2024-2026 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to several new positions.
      • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a moderate number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Employment in this occupation is dependent on the number of children attending early childhood centres, childcare centres and school-based childcare services, as well as government funding for these various services. 

      Demographically, the number of preschoolers and primary school students is expected to decrease slightly across Quebec by 2026.                

      However, there is a long waiting list for childcare spaces due to the backlog of many childcare centre projects, higher construction costs, the labour shortage, and the closure of many family daycare centres between 2018 and 2022.

      As the government is committed to creating several thousand childcare spaces, there is a significant demand for workers in this occupation, particularly for qualified educators. Measures were also implemented to foster recruitment, including a scholarship program for which childcare technology students are eligible and a paid on-the-job training program. 

      While the outlook is moderate across Quebec, it is good in Quebec's 12 economic regions. 

      Here are some key facts about Early childhood educators and assistants in the Côte-Nord and Nord-du-Québec regions:

      • Early childhood educators and assistants mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Nursing and residential care facilities and social assistance (NAICS 623-624): 87%
        • Educational services (NAICS 61): 10%

    • Outaouais Region Good

      The employment outlook will be good for Early childhood educators and assistants (NOC 42202) in the Outaouais region for the 2024-2026 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to several new positions.
      • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Employment in this occupation is dependent on the number of children attending early childhood centres, childcare centres and school-based childcare services, as well as government funding for these various services. 

      Demographically, the number of preschoolers and primary school students is expected to decrease slightly across Quebec by 2026.                

      However, there is a long waiting list for childcare spaces due to the backlog of many childcare centre projects, higher construction costs, the labour shortage, and the closure of many family daycare centres between 2018 and 2022.

      As the government is committed to creating several thousand childcare spaces, there is a significant demand for workers in this occupation, particularly for qualified educators. Measures were also implemented to foster recruitment, including a scholarship program for which childcare technology students are eligible and a paid on-the-job training program. 

      While the outlook is moderate across Quebec, it is good in Quebec's 12 economic regions. 

      Here are some key facts about Early childhood educators and assistants in the Outaouais region:

      • Approximately 4,170 people work in this occupation.
      • Early childhood educators and assistants mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Nursing and residential care facilities and social assistance (NAICS 623-624): 75%
        • Educational services (NAICS 61): 22%

    • Saguenay–Lac-Saint-Jean Region Good

      The employment outlook will be good for Early childhood educators and assistants (NOC 42202) in the Saguenay - Lac-Saint-Jean region for the 2024-2026 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to several new positions.
      • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Employment in this occupation is dependent on the number of children attending early childhood centres, childcare centres and school-based childcare services, as well as government funding for these various services. 

      Demographically, the number of preschoolers and primary school students is expected to decrease slightly across Quebec by 2026.                

      However, there is a long waiting list for childcare spaces due to the backlog of many childcare centre projects, higher construction costs, the labour shortage, and the closure of many family daycare centres between 2018 and 2022.

      As the government is committed to creating several thousand childcare spaces, there is a significant demand for workers in this occupation, particularly for qualified educators. Measures were also implemented to foster recruitment, including a scholarship program for which childcare technology students are eligible and a paid on-the-job training program. 

      While the outlook is moderate across Quebec, it is good in Quebec's 12 economic regions. 

      Here are some key facts about Early childhood educators and assistants in the Saguenay - Lac-Saint-Jean region:

      • Approximately 2,310 people work in this occupation.
      • Early childhood educators and assistants mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Nursing and residential care facilities and social assistance (NAICS 623-624): 80%
        • Educational services (NAICS 61): 17%

  • OntarioGood

    The employment outlook will be good for Early childhood educators and assistants (NOC 42202) in Ontario for the 2024-2026 period.

    The following factors contributed to this outlook:

    • Employment growth will lead to several new positions.
    • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
    • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

    What Types of Employers Are Out There?

    • The majority are employed in child day-care services
    • Elementary schools


    What are the Main Trends Affecting Employment?

    • Public sector investments in the child care system to create more day-care spaces and bolster the early childhood educator workforce
    • Generally, steady opportunities as more parents participate in the workforce


    What Skills Do I Need to Succeed?           

    • The College of Early Childhood Educators regulates early childhood educators in Ontario
    • Only registered members of the College can practise the profession and use the protected titles “registered early childhood educator” (RECE), or “early childhood educator” (ECE)
    • For early childhood assistants, there are two voluntary skilled trades available, namely, Child Development Practitioner, and Aboriginal Child Development Practitioner.

    Here are some key facts about Early childhood educators and assistants in Ontario:

    • Approximately 75,000 people work in this occupation.
    • Early childhood educators and assistants mainly work in the following sectors:
      • Social assistance (NAICS 624): 76%
      • Elementary and secondary schools (NAICS 6111): 18%
    • The distribution of full-time and part-time workers in this occupation is:
      • Full-time workers: 77% compared to 81% for all occupations
      • Part-time workers: 23% compared to 19% for all occupations
    • 36% of early childhood educators and assistants work all year, while 64% work only part of the year, compared to 63% and 37% respectively among all occupations. Those who worked only part of the year did so for an average of 37 weeks compared to 43 weeks for all occupations.
    • 10% of early childhood educators and assistants are self-employed compared to an average of 15% for all occupations.
    • The gender distribution of people in this occupation is:
      • Men: less than 5% compared to 52% for all occupations
      • Women: more than 95% compared to 48% for all occupations
    • The educational attainment of workers in this occupation is:
      • no high school diploma: less than 5% compared to 9% for all occupations
      • high school diploma or equivalent: 16% compared to 25% for all occupations
      • apprenticeship or trades certificate or diploma: less than 5% compared to 8% for all occupations
      • college certificate or diploma or university certificate below bachelor's: 52% compared to 22% for all occupations
      • bachelor's degree: 20% compared to 24% for all occupations
      • university certificate, degree or diploma above bachelor level: 5% compared to 13% for all occupations

    Regional outlooks

    • Hamilton–Niagara Peninsula Region Good

      The employment outlook will be good for Early childhood educators and assistants (NOC 42202) in the Hamilton - Niagara Peninsula region for the 2024-2026 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to several new positions.
      • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Here are some key facts about Early childhood educators and assistants in the Hamilton - Niagara Peninsula region:

      • Approximately 7,640 people work in this occupation.
      • Early childhood educators and assistants mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Nursing and residential care facilities and social assistance (NAICS 623-624): 77%
        • Educational services (NAICS 61): 20%

    • Kingston–Pembroke Region Good

      The employment outlook will be good for Early childhood educators and assistants (NOC 42202) in the Kingston - Pembroke region for the 2024-2026 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to several new positions.
      • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Here are some key facts about Early childhood educators and assistants in the Kingston - Pembroke region:

      • Approximately 2,610 people work in this occupation.
      • Early childhood educators and assistants mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Nursing and residential care facilities and social assistance (NAICS 623-624): 81%
        • Educational services (NAICS 61): 17%

    • Kitchener–Waterloo–Barrie Region Good

      The employment outlook will be good for Early childhood educators and assistants (NOC 42202) in the Kitchener - Waterloo - Barrie region for the 2024-2026 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to several new positions.
      • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Here are some key facts about Early childhood educators and assistants in the Kitchener - Waterloo - Barrie region:

      • Approximately 6,910 people work in this occupation.
      • Early childhood educators and assistants mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Nursing and residential care facilities and social assistance (NAICS 623-624): 70%
        • Educational services (NAICS 61): 28%

    • London Region Good

      The employment outlook will be good for Early childhood educators and assistants (NOC 42202) in the London region for the 2024-2026 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to several new positions.
      • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Here are some key facts about Early childhood educators and assistants in the London region:

      • Approximately 4,170 people work in this occupation.
      • Early childhood educators and assistants mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Nursing and residential care facilities and social assistance (NAICS 623-624): 75%
        • Educational services (NAICS 61): 22%

    • Muskoka–Kawarthas Region Good

      The employment outlook will be good for Early childhood educators and assistants (NOC 42202) in the Muskoka - Kawarthas region for the 2024-2026 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to several new positions.
      • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Here are some key facts about Early childhood educators and assistants in the Muskoka - Kawarthas region:

      • Approximately 1,920 people work in this occupation.
      • Early childhood educators and assistants mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Nursing and residential care facilities and social assistance (NAICS 623-624): 85%
        • Educational services (NAICS 61): 10%

    • Northeast Region Good

      The employment outlook will be good for Early childhood educators and assistants (NOC 42202) in the Northeast region for the 2024-2026 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to several new positions.
      • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Here are some key facts about Early childhood educators and assistants in the Northeast region:

      • Approximately 3,030 people work in this occupation.
      • Early childhood educators and assistants mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Nursing and residential care facilities and social assistance (NAICS 623-624): 78%
        • Educational services (NAICS 61): 18%

    • Northwest Region Good

      The employment outlook will be good for Early childhood educators and assistants (NOC 42202) in the Northwest region for the 2024-2026 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to several new positions.
      • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Here are some key facts about Early childhood educators and assistants in the Northwest region:

      • Approximately 1,200 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
      • Early childhood educators and assistants mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Nursing and residential care facilities and social assistance (NAICS 623-624): 87%
        • Educational services (NAICS 61): 10%

    • Ottawa Region Good

      The employment outlook will be good for Early childhood educators and assistants (NOC 42202) in the Ottawa region for the 2024-2026 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to several new positions.
      • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Here are some key facts about Early childhood educators and assistants in the Ottawa region:

      • Approximately 8,260 people work in this occupation.
      • Early childhood educators and assistants mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Nursing and residential care facilities and social assistance (NAICS 623-624): 72%
        • Educational services (NAICS 61): 24%

    • Stratford–Bruce Peninsula Region Good

      The employment outlook will be good for Early childhood educators and assistants (NOC 42202) in the Stratford - Bruce Peninsula region for the 2024-2026 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to several new positions.
      • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Here are some key facts about Early childhood educators and assistants in the Stratford - Bruce Peninsula region:

      • Approximately 1,620 people work in this occupation.
      • Early childhood educators and assistants mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Nursing and residential care facilities and social assistance (NAICS 623-624): 90%
        • Educational services (NAICS 61): 9%

    • Toronto Region Good

      The employment outlook will be good for Early childhood educators and assistants (NOC 42202) in the Toronto region for the 2024-2026 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to several new positions.
      • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Here are some key facts about Early childhood educators and assistants in the Toronto region:

      • Approximately 34,610 people work in this occupation.
      • Early childhood educators and assistants mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Nursing and residential care facilities and social assistance (NAICS 623-624): 76%
        • Educational services (NAICS 61): 20%

    • Windsor-Sarnia Region Good

      The employment outlook will be good for Early childhood educators and assistants (NOC 42202) in the Windsor - Sarnia region for the 2024-2026 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to several new positions.
      • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Here are some key facts about Early childhood educators and assistants in the Windsor - Sarnia region:

      • Approximately 3,190 people work in this occupation.
      • Early childhood educators and assistants mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Nursing and residential care facilities and social assistance (NAICS 623-624): 76%
        • Educational services (NAICS 61): 21%

  • ManitobaGood

    The employment outlook will be good for Early childhood educators and assistants (NOC 42202) in Manitoba for the 2024-2026 period.

    The following factors contributed to this outlook:

    • Employment growth will lead to several new positions.
    • A moderate number of positions will become available due to retirements.
    • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.
    • Through a federal-provincial agreement in 2023, Manitoba began offering $10/day child care at regulated, non-profit child care centres. The deal includes a goal of 23,000 new child care spaces by 2026, as well as the recruitment of 2,000 additional early childhood educators and 1,000 child care assistants over the same period. 
    • As of 2024, the sector was short nearly 1,000 early childhood educators, with fewer working currently than in 2017. Manitoba increased its starting wage for early childhood educators by about 18% in 2023, and a further 2.75% in 2024 to help address recruitment and retention challenges.  
    • In 2023, the governments of Canada and Manitoba earmarked $24 million to expand training opportunities for early childhood educators, adding 998 seats over three years at five post-secondary institutions.


    Here are some key facts about Early childhood educators and assistants in Manitoba:

    • Approximately 8,550 people work in this occupation.
    • Early childhood educators and assistants mainly work in the following sectors:
      • Social assistance (NAICS 624): 89%
      • Elementary and secondary schools (NAICS 6111): 6%
    • The distribution of full-time and part-time workers in this occupation is:
      • Full-time workers: 76% compared to 81% for all occupations
      • Part-time workers: 24% compared to 19% for all occupations
    • 44% of early childhood educators and assistants work all year, while 56% work only part of the year, compared to 65% and 35% respectively among all occupations. Those who worked only part of the year did so for an average of 39 weeks compared to 43 weeks for all occupations.
    • 10% of early childhood educators and assistants are self-employed compared to an average of 12% for all occupations.
    • The gender distribution of people in this occupation is:
      • Men: 6% compared to 53% for all occupations
      • Women: 94% compared to 47% for all occupations
    • The educational attainment of workers in this occupation is:
      • no high school diploma: 6% compared to 12% for all occupations
      • high school diploma or equivalent: 30% compared to 31% for all occupations
      • apprenticeship or trades certificate or diploma: 7% compared to 12% for all occupations
      • college certificate or diploma or university certificate below bachelor's: 32% compared to 17% for all occupations
      • bachelor's degree: 18% compared to 20% for all occupations
      • university certificate, degree or diploma above bachelor level: 6% compared to 8% for all occupations

    Regional outlooks

    • Interlake Region Good

      The employment outlook will be good for Early childhood educators and assistants (NOC 42202) in the Interlake region for the 2024-2026 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to several new positions.
      • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Here are some key facts about Early childhood educators and assistants in the Interlake region:

      • Approximately 370 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
      • Early childhood educators and assistants mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Nursing and residential care facilities and social assistance (NAICS 623-624): 86%
        • Educational services (NAICS 61): 12%

    • North Central Region Moderate

      The employment outlook will be moderate for Early childhood educators and assistants (NOC 42202) in the North Central region for the 2024-2026 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to a moderate number of new positions.
      • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Here are some key facts about Early childhood educators and assistants in the North Central region:

      • Approximately 680 people work in this occupation.
      • Early childhood educators and assistants mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Nursing and residential care facilities and social assistance (NAICS 623-624): 95%
        • Educational services (NAICS 61): 5%

    • North Region Good

      The employment outlook will be good for Early childhood educators and assistants (NOC 42202) in the North region for the 2024-2026 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to several new positions.
      • A moderate number of positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a moderate number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Here are some key facts about Early childhood educators and assistants in the North region:

      • Early childhood educators and assistants mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Nursing and residential care facilities and social assistance (NAICS 623-624): 88%
        • Educational services (NAICS 61): 9%

    • Parklands Region Good

      The employment outlook will be good for Early childhood educators and assistants (NOC 42202) in the Parklands region for the 2024-2026 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to several new positions.
      • A moderate number of positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a moderate number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Here are some key facts about Early childhood educators and assistants in the Parklands region:

      • Approximately 770 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
      • Early childhood educators and assistants mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Nursing and residential care facilities and social assistance (NAICS 623-624): 88%
        • Educational services (NAICS 61): 9%

    • South Central Region Moderate

      The employment outlook will be moderate for Early childhood educators and assistants (NOC 42202) in the South Central region for the 2024-2026 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to a moderate number of new positions.
      • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Here are some key facts about Early childhood educators and assistants in the South Central region:

      • Approximately 680 people work in this occupation.
      • Early childhood educators and assistants mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Nursing and residential care facilities and social assistance (NAICS 623-624): 95%
        • Educational services (NAICS 61): 5%

    • Southeast Region Good

      The employment outlook will be good for Early childhood educators and assistants (NOC 42202) in the Southeast region for the 2024-2026 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to several new positions.
      • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Here are some key facts about Early childhood educators and assistants in the Southeast region:

      • Approximately 800 people work in this occupation.
      • Early childhood educators and assistants mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Nursing and residential care facilities and social assistance (NAICS 623-624): 93%
        • Educational services (NAICS 61): 5%

    • Southwest Region Good

      The employment outlook will be good for Early childhood educators and assistants (NOC 42202) in the Southwest region for the 2024-2026 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to several new positions.
      • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Here are some key facts about Early childhood educators and assistants in the Southwest region:

      • Approximately 1,130 people work in this occupation.
      • Early childhood educators and assistants mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Nursing and residential care facilities and social assistance (NAICS 623-624): 91%
        • Educational services (NAICS 61): 6%

    • Winnipeg Region Good

      The employment outlook will be good for Early childhood educators and assistants (NOC 42202) in the Winnipeg region for the 2024-2026 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to several new positions.
      • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Here are some key facts about Early childhood educators and assistants in the Winnipeg region:

      • Approximately 5,180 people work in this occupation.
      • Early childhood educators and assistants mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Nursing and residential care facilities and social assistance (NAICS 623-624): 88%
        • Educational services (NAICS 61): 9%

  • SaskatchewanGood

    The employment outlook will be good for Early childhood educators and assistants (NOC 42202) in Saskatchewan for the 2024-2026 period.

    The following factors contributed to this outlook:

    • Employment growth will lead to several new positions.
    • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
    • There are a moderate number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.
    • Joint federal and provincial government investment to allocate more than 5,000 child care spaces across the province throughout 2024-25.
    • Staff recruitment and retention will be supported by federal and provincial government investments into early learning and child care workforce and wage enhancement grants.
    • Government investment into tuition-free early childhood educator training, professional development and student financial support will allow job gains for this occupation.
    • Generally, steady opportunities as the population grows and more parents participate in the workforce.


    Here are some key facts about Early childhood educators and assistants in Saskatchewan:

    • Approximately 6,150 people work in this occupation.
    • Early childhood educators and assistants mainly work in the following sectors:
      • Social assistance (NAICS 624): 89%
      • Elementary and secondary schools (NAICS 6111): 5%
    • The distribution of full-time and part-time workers in this occupation is:
      • Full-time workers: 79% compared to 81% for all occupations
      • Part-time workers: 21% compared to 19% for all occupations
    • 48% of early childhood educators and assistants work all year, while 52% work only part of the year, compared to 65% and 35% respectively among all occupations. Those who worked only part of the year did so for an average of 40 weeks compared to 43 weeks for all occupations.
    • 20% of early childhood educators and assistants are self-employed compared to an average of 16% for all occupations.
    • The gender distribution of people in this occupation is:
      • Men: less than 5% compared to 53% for all occupations
      • Women: more than 95% compared to 47% for all occupations
    • The educational attainment of workers in this occupation is:
      • no high school diploma: 9% compared to 11% for all occupations
      • high school diploma or equivalent: 34% compared to 33% for all occupations
      • apprenticeship or trades certificate or diploma: 12% compared to 15% for all occupations
      • college certificate or diploma or university certificate below bachelor's: 27% compared to 17% for all occupations
      • bachelor's degree: 13% compared to 18% for all occupations
      • university certificate, degree or diploma above bachelor level: less than 5% compared to 7% for all occupations

    Regional outlooks

    • Northern Region Good

      The employment outlook will be good for Early childhood educators and assistants (NOC 42202) in the Northern region for the 2024-2026 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to several new positions.
      • A moderate number of positions will become available due to retirements.

      Here are some key facts about Early childhood educators and assistants in the Northern region:

      • Approximately 1,050 people work in this occupation.
      • Early childhood educators and assistants mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Nursing and residential care facilities and social assistance (NAICS 623-624): 86%
        • Educational services (NAICS 61): 10%

    • Prince Albert Region Good

      The employment outlook will be good for Early childhood educators and assistants (NOC 42202) in the Prince Albert region for the 2024-2026 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to several new positions.
      • A moderate number of positions will become available due to retirements.

      Here are some key facts about Early childhood educators and assistants in the Prince Albert region:

      • Approximately 1,050 people work in this occupation.
      • Early childhood educators and assistants mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Nursing and residential care facilities and social assistance (NAICS 623-624): 86%
        • Educational services (NAICS 61): 10%

    • Regina–Moose Mountain Region Good

      The employment outlook will be good for Early childhood educators and assistants (NOC 42202) in the Regina - Moose Mountain region for the 2024-2026 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to several new positions.
      • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Here are some key facts about Early childhood educators and assistants in the Regina - Moose Mountain region:

      • Approximately 2,310 people work in this occupation.
      • Early childhood educators and assistants mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Nursing and residential care facilities and social assistance (NAICS 623-624): 94%

    • Saskatoon–Biggar Region Good

      The employment outlook will be good for Early childhood educators and assistants (NOC 42202) in the Saskatoon - Biggar region for the 2024-2026 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to several new positions.
      • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Here are some key facts about Early childhood educators and assistants in the Saskatoon - Biggar region:

      • Approximately 1,870 people work in this occupation.
      • Early childhood educators and assistants mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Nursing and residential care facilities and social assistance (NAICS 623-624): 89%
        • Educational services (NAICS 61): 6%

    • Swift Current–Moose Jaw Region Good

      The employment outlook will be good for Early childhood educators and assistants (NOC 42202) in the Swift Current - Moose Jaw region for the 2024-2026 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to several new positions.
      • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Here are some key facts about Early childhood educators and assistants in the Swift Current - Moose Jaw region:

      • Approximately 520 people work in this occupation.
      • Early childhood educators and assistants mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Nursing and residential care facilities and social assistance (NAICS 623-624): 95%

    • Yorkton–Melville Region Good

      The employment outlook will be good for Early childhood educators and assistants (NOC 42202) in the Yorkton - Melville region for the 2024-2026 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to several new positions.
      • A moderate number of positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a moderate number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Here are some key facts about Early childhood educators and assistants in the Yorkton - Melville region:

      • Approximately 410 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
      • Early childhood educators and assistants mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Nursing and residential care facilities and social assistance (NAICS 623-624): more than 95%

  • AlbertaVery good

    The employment outlook will be very good for Early childhood educators and assistants (NOC 42202) in Alberta for the 2024-2026 period.

    The following factors contributed to this outlook:

    • Employment decline will lead to the loss of some positions.
    • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
    • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.
    • High employee turnover in this occupation could lead to additional employment opportunities.
    • Due to population growth, and demographic trends there is strong demand for early childhood educators and assistants in Alberta, particularly in rural Alberta, due to labour shortages and a lack of access to childcare centres.
    • Employment is dependent on provincial and federal funding, which can lead to additional jobs in this occupation. 
    • The Alberta government's Budget 2024 outlines $1.5 billion for child-care services, to create more child-care spaces, lower fees, and to support service providers. Budget 2024 also includes $24 million over 3 years for new private schools and Early Childhood Services operators. 


    Here are some key facts about Early childhood educators and assistants in Alberta:

    • Approximately 21,400 people work in this occupation.
    • Early childhood educators and assistants mainly work in the following sectors:
      • Social assistance (NAICS 624): 90%
      • Elementary and secondary schools (NAICS 6111): 5%
    • The distribution of full-time and part-time workers in this occupation is:
      • Full-time workers: 74% compared to 80% for all occupations
      • Part-time workers: 26% compared to 20% for all occupations
    • 32% of early childhood educators and assistants work all year, while 68% work only part of the year, compared to 61% and 39% respectively among all occupations. Those who worked only part of the year did so for an average of 35 weeks compared to 42 weeks for all occupations.
    • 14% of early childhood educators and assistants are self-employed compared to an average of 15% for all occupations.
    • The gender distribution of people in this occupation is:
      • Men: less than 5% compared to 53% for all occupations
      • Women: more than 95% compared to 47% for all occupations
    • The educational attainment of workers in this occupation is:
      • no high school diploma: less than 5% compared to 10% for all occupations
      • high school diploma or equivalent: 19% compared to 28% for all occupations
      • apprenticeship or trades certificate or diploma: 8% compared to 13% for all occupations
      • college certificate or diploma or university certificate below bachelor's: 31% compared to 19% for all occupations
      • bachelor's degree: 27% compared to 21% for all occupations
      • university certificate, degree or diploma above bachelor level: 10% compared to 9% for all occupations

    Regional outlooks

    • Athabasca–Grande Prairie–Peace River Region Moderate

      The employment outlook will be moderate for Early childhood educators and assistants (NOC 42202) in the Athabasca - Grande Prairie - Peace River region for the 2024-2026 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment decline will lead to the loss of some positions.
      • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.
      • High employee turnover in this occupation could lead to additional employment opportunities.

      Here are some key facts about Early childhood educators and assistants in the Athabasca - Grande Prairie - Peace River region:

      • Early childhood educators and assistants mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Nursing and residential care facilities and social assistance (NAICS 623-624): 91%
        • Educational services (NAICS 61): 6%

    • Banff–Jasper–Rocky Mountain House Region Moderate

      The employment outlook will be moderate for Early childhood educators and assistants (NOC 42202) in the Banff - Jasper - Rocky Mountain House region for the 2024-2026 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment decline will lead to the loss of some positions.
      • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.
      • High employee turnover in this occupation could lead to additional employment opportunities.

      Here are some key facts about Early childhood educators and assistants in the Banff - Jasper - Rocky Mountain House region:

      • Approximately 1,110 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
      • Early childhood educators and assistants mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Nursing and residential care facilities and social assistance (NAICS 623-624): 91%
        • Educational services (NAICS 61): 6%

    • Calgary Region Good

      The employment outlook will be good for Early childhood educators and assistants (NOC 42202) in the Calgary region for the 2024-2026 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment decline will lead to the loss of some positions.
      • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.
      • High employee turnover in this occupation could lead to additional employment opportunities.

      Here are some key facts about Early childhood educators and assistants in the Calgary region:

      • Approximately 8,060 people work in this occupation.
      • Early childhood educators and assistants mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Nursing and residential care facilities and social assistance (NAICS 623-624): 86%
        • Educational services (NAICS 61): 10%

    • Camrose–Drumheller Region Moderate

      The employment outlook will be moderate for Early childhood educators and assistants (NOC 42202) in the Camrose - Drumheller region for the 2024-2026 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment decline will lead to the loss of some positions.
      • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.
      • High employee turnover in this occupation could lead to additional employment opportunities.

      Here are some key facts about Early childhood educators and assistants in the Camrose - Drumheller region:

      • Approximately 640 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
      • Early childhood educators and assistants mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Nursing and residential care facilities and social assistance (NAICS 623-624): 95%

    • Edmonton Region Limited

      The employment outlook will be limited for Early childhood educators and assistants (NOC 42202) in the Edmonton region for the 2024-2026 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment decline will lead to the loss of some positions.
      • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.
      • High employee turnover in this occupation could lead to additional employment opportunities.

      Here are some key facts about Early childhood educators and assistants in the Edmonton region:

      • Approximately 7,780 people work in this occupation.
      • Early childhood educators and assistants mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Nursing and residential care facilities and social assistance (NAICS 623-624): 93%

    • Lethbridge–Medicine Hat Region Good

      The employment outlook will be good for Early childhood educators and assistants (NOC 42202) in the Lethbridge - Medicine Hat region for the 2024-2026 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment decline will lead to the loss of some positions.
      • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.
      • High employee turnover in this occupation could lead to additional employment opportunities.

      Here are some key facts about Early childhood educators and assistants in the Lethbridge - Medicine Hat region:

      • Approximately 1,140 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
      • Early childhood educators and assistants mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Nursing and residential care facilities and social assistance (NAICS 623-624): 95%
        • Educational services (NAICS 61): 5%

    • Red Deer Region Moderate

      The employment outlook will be moderate for Early childhood educators and assistants (NOC 42202) in the Red Deer region for the 2024-2026 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment decline will lead to the loss of some positions.
      • A moderate number of positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.
      • High employee turnover in this occupation could lead to additional employment opportunities.

      Here are some key facts about Early childhood educators and assistants in the Red Deer region:

      • Approximately 570 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
      • Early childhood educators and assistants mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Nursing and residential care facilities and social assistance (NAICS 623-624): 89%
        • Educational services (NAICS 61): 11%

    • Wood Buffalo–Cold Lake Region Moderate

      The employment outlook will be moderate for Early childhood educators and assistants (NOC 42202) in the Wood Buffalo - Cold Lake region for the 2024-2026 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to several new positions.
      • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
      • High employee turnover in this occupation could lead to additional employment opportunities.

      Here are some key facts about Early childhood educators and assistants in the Wood Buffalo - Cold Lake region:

      • Approximately 620 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
      • Early childhood educators and assistants mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Nursing and residential care facilities and social assistance (NAICS 623-624): 90%
        • Educational services (NAICS 61): 9%

  • British ColumbiaGood

    The employment outlook will be good for Early childhood educators and assistants (NOC 42202) in British Columbia for the 2024-2026 period.

    The following factors contributed to this outlook:

    • Employment growth will lead to several new positions.
    • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
    • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

    Employment opportunities remain strong as the province continues to invest in additional childcare spaces. Demand will increase as the province continues to implement its $10-a-day childcare program.


    In 2023, the provincial and federal governments announced a joint investment of $260 million to create new licensed childcare spaces in high-need areas in the province.

    Here are some key facts about Early childhood educators and assistants in British Columbia:

    • Approximately 25,250 people work in this occupation.
    • Early childhood educators and assistants mainly work in the following sectors:
      • Social assistance (NAICS 624): 90%
    • The distribution of full-time and part-time workers in this occupation is:
      • Full-time workers: 71% compared to 78% for all occupations
      • Part-time workers: 28% compared to 22% for all occupations
    • 39% of early childhood educators and assistants work all year, while 61% work only part of the year, compared to 61% and 39% respectively among all occupations. Those who worked only part of the year did so for an average of 37 weeks compared to 42 weeks for all occupations.
    • 15% of early childhood educators and assistants are self-employed compared to an average of 17% for all occupations.
    • The gender distribution of people in this occupation is:
      • Men: less than 5% compared to 52% for all occupations
      • Women: more than 95% compared to 48% for all occupations
    • The educational attainment of workers in this occupation is:
      • no high school diploma: less than 5% compared to 8% for all occupations
      • high school diploma or equivalent: 18% compared to 28% for all occupations
      • apprenticeship or trades certificate or diploma: 10% compared to 13% for all occupations
      • college certificate or diploma or university certificate below bachelor's: 42% compared to 17% for all occupations
      • bachelor's degree: 20% compared to 22% for all occupations
      • university certificate, degree or diploma above bachelor level: 7% compared to 12% for all occupations

    Regional outlooks

    • Cariboo Region Good

      The employment outlook will be good for Early childhood educators and assistants (NOC 42202) in the Cariboo region for the 2024-2026 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to several new positions.
      • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Here are some key facts about Early childhood educators and assistants in the Cariboo region:

      • Approximately 660 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
      • Early childhood educators and assistants mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Nursing and residential care facilities and social assistance (NAICS 623-624): 93%

    • Kootenay Region Good

      The employment outlook will be good for Early childhood educators and assistants (NOC 42202) in the Kootenay region for the 2024-2026 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to several new positions.
      • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Here are some key facts about Early childhood educators and assistants in the Kootenay region:

      • Approximately 570 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
      • Early childhood educators and assistants mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Nursing and residential care facilities and social assistance (NAICS 623-624): 94%
        • Educational services (NAICS 61): 5%

    • Lower Mainland–Southwest Region Good

      The employment outlook will be good for Early childhood educators and assistants (NOC 42202) in the Lower Mainland - Southwest region for the 2024-2026 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to several new positions.
      • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Here are some key facts about Early childhood educators and assistants in the Lower Mainland - Southwest region:

      • Approximately 15,370 people work in this occupation.
      • Early childhood educators and assistants mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Nursing and residential care facilities and social assistance (NAICS 623-624): 89%
        • Educational services (NAICS 61): 7%

    • Nechako Region Good

      The employment outlook will be good for Early childhood educators and assistants (NOC 42202) in the Nechako region for the 2024-2026 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to several new positions.
      • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Here are some key facts about Early childhood educators and assistants in the Nechako region:

      • Early childhood educators and assistants mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Nursing and residential care facilities and social assistance (NAICS 623-624): 86%

    • North Coast Region Good

      The employment outlook will be good for Early childhood educators and assistants (NOC 42202) in the North Coast region for the 2024-2026 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to several new positions.
      • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Here are some key facts about Early childhood educators and assistants in the North Coast region:

      • Approximately 520 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
      • Early childhood educators and assistants mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Nursing and residential care facilities and social assistance (NAICS 623-624): 86%

    • Northeast Region Good

      The employment outlook will be good for Early childhood educators and assistants (NOC 42202) in the Northeast region for the 2024-2026 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to several new positions.
      • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Here are some key facts about Early childhood educators and assistants in the Northeast region:

      • Approximately 300 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
      • Early childhood educators and assistants mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Nursing and residential care facilities and social assistance (NAICS 623-624): 95%

    • Thompson–Okanagan Region Good

      The employment outlook will be good for Early childhood educators and assistants (NOC 42202) in the Thompson - Okanagan region for the 2024-2026 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to several new positions.
      • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Here are some key facts about Early childhood educators and assistants in the Thompson - Okanagan region:

      • Approximately 3,390 people work in this occupation.
      • Early childhood educators and assistants mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Nursing and residential care facilities and social assistance (NAICS 623-624): 92%

    • Vancouver Island and Coast Region Good

      The employment outlook will be good for Early childhood educators and assistants (NOC 42202) in the Vancouver Island and Coast region for the 2024-2026 period.

      The following factors contributed to this outlook:

      • Employment growth will lead to several new positions.
      • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
      • There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

      Here are some key facts about Early childhood educators and assistants in the Vancouver Island and Coast region:

      • Approximately 4,190 people work in this occupation.
      • Early childhood educators and assistants mainly work in the following sectors:
        • Nursing and residential care facilities and social assistance (NAICS 623-624): 90%
        • Educational services (NAICS 61): 7%

  • Yukon TerritoryVery good

    The employment outlook will be very good for Early childhood educators and assistants (NOC 42202) in Yukon for the 2024-2026 period.

    The following factors contributed to this outlook:

    • Employment growth will lead to several new positions.
    • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
    • There are a moderate number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.
    • Demand for child care workers is expected to grow from 2024 to 2026 due to increasing demand for child care spaces within the territory.
    • The Government of Yukon's 2024-25 fiscal budget includes $42.5 million in funding for early learning and childcare programs and aims to create 110 new child care spaces in the territory by 2026.
    • Early childhood educators and assistants can complete early learning coursework at Yukon University or elsewhere. They can apply for certification through the Government of Yukon.
    • Looking beyond the forecast period, the Conference Board of Canada (2024) predicts that this occupation will be in the top twenty in terms of openings of all occupations in the Yukon from 2024 to 2045.


    Here are some key facts about Early childhood educators and assistants in Yukon:

    • Approximately 300 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
    • Early childhood educators and assistants mainly work in the following sectors:
      • Health care and social services (NAICS 62): 79%
      • Educational services (NAICS 61): 15%
      • Public Administration and Defence (NAICS 91): 6%
    • The distribution of full-time and part-time workers in this occupation is:
      • Full-time workers: 84% compared to 84% for all occupations
      • Part-time workers: 16% compared to 16% for all occupations
    • 49% of early childhood educators and assistants work all year, while 51% work only part of the year, compared to 65% and 35% respectively among all occupations. Those who worked only part of the year did so for an average of 41 weeks compared to 44 weeks for all occupations.
    • 9% of early childhood educators and assistants are self-employed compared to an average of 14% for all occupations.
    • The gender distribution of people in this occupation is:
      • Men: 11% compared to 49% for all occupations
      • Women: 89% compared to 51% for all occupations
    • The educational attainment of workers in this occupation is:
      • no high school diploma: 6% compared to 11% for all occupations
      • high school diploma or equivalent: 17% compared to 25% for all occupations
      • apprenticeship or trades certificate or diploma: 8% compared to 13% for all occupations
      • college certificate or diploma or university certificate below bachelor's: 33% compared to 20% for all occupations
      • bachelor's degree: 26% compared to 19% for all occupations
      • university certificate, degree or diploma above bachelor level: 10% compared to 11% for all occupations

  • Northwest TerritoriesModerate

    The employment outlook will be moderate for Early childhood educators and assistants (NOC 42202) in Northwest Territories for the 2024-2026 period.

    The following factors contributed to this outlook:

    • Employment growth will lead to a moderate number of new positions.
    • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
    • There are a moderate number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.
    • There was strong demand for early childhood educators across the Northwest Territories in 2024.
    • The Northwest Territories aims to create 300 net new childcare spaces by 2026, which should lead to job growth in this occupation.
    • In 2024, 14 communities in the Northwest Territories did not yet have a licensed child care facility.
    • The Government of Northwest Territories offers a free Early Childhood Essentials Course for early childhood educators working in licensed programs.
    • Diploma programs in Early Childhood Development are offered in the Northwest Territories at Aurora College and at Collège nordique francophone.
    • Early Learning and Child Care Scholarships are available from the Government of Northwest Territories for students enrolled in a diploma or degree program in early childhood development. 


    Here are some key facts about Early childhood educators and assistants in Northwest Territories:

    • Approximately 200 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
    • Early childhood educators and assistants mainly work in the following sectors:
      • Health care and social services (NAICS 62): 79%
      • Educational services (NAICS 61): 15%
      • Public Administration and Defence (NAICS 91): 6%
    • The distribution of full-time and part-time workers in this occupation is:
      • Full-time workers: 77% compared to 88% for all occupations
      • Part-time workers: 23% compared to 12% for all occupations
    • 53% of early childhood educators and assistants work all year, while 47% work only part of the year, compared to 71% and 28% respectively among all occupations. Those who worked only part of the year did so for an average of 41 weeks compared to 44 weeks for all occupations.
    • 11% of early childhood educators and assistants are self-employed compared to an average of 7% for all occupations.
    • The gender distribution of people in this occupation is:
      • Men: 9% compared to 52% for all occupations
      • Women: 91% compared to 48% for all occupations
    • The educational attainment of workers in this occupation is:
      • no high school diploma: 20% compared to 17% for all occupations
      • high school diploma or equivalent: 25% compared to 26% for all occupations
      • apprenticeship or trades certificate or diploma: 8% compared to 12% for all occupations
      • college certificate or diploma or university certificate below bachelor's: 31% compared to 18% for all occupations
      • bachelor's degree: 12% compared to 17% for all occupations
      • university certificate, degree or diploma above bachelor level: less than 5% compared to 9% for all occupations

  • NunavutModerate

    The employment outlook will be moderate for Early childhood educators and assistants (NOC 42202) in Nunavut for the 2024-2026 period.

    The following factors contributed to this outlook:

    • Employment growth will lead to several new positions.
    • Not many positions will become available due to retirements.
    • There are a moderate number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.
    • High employee turnover in this occupation could lead to additional employment opportunities.
    • Nunavut aims to create 238 new childcare spaces by 2026, which should lead to job growth in this occupation. The federal government committed $10.9 million in 2024 to help fund these spaces.
    • Local training is available for these occupations. A diploma program in Early Childhood Development and an Early Childhood Education Applied Certificate Program are offered at Nunavut Arctic College.
    • Most early childhood educators in Nunavut work at licensed child day care facilities or at family day homes.
    • Looking beyond the forecast period, the Conference Board of Canada (2024) predicts that this occupation will be in the top ten in terms of all open positions in Nunavut from 2024 to 2045.

    Here are some key facts about Early childhood educators and assistants in Nunavut:

    • Approximately 150 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
    • Early childhood educators and assistants mainly work in the following sectors:
      • Health care and social services (NAICS 62): 79%
      • Educational services (NAICS 61): 15%
      • Public Administration and Defence (NAICS 91): 6%
    • The distribution of full-time and part-time workers in this occupation is:
      • Full-time workers: 87% compared to 87% for all occupations
      • Part-time workers: 13% compared to 13% for all occupations
    • 61% of early childhood educators and assistants work all year, while 39% work only part of the year, compared to 72% and 28% respectively among all occupations. Those who worked only part of the year did so for an average of 40 weeks compared to 44 weeks for all occupations.
    • The gender distribution of people in this occupation is:
      • Men: 11% compared to 51% for all occupations
      • Women: 89% compared to 49% for all occupations
    • The educational attainment of workers in this occupation is:
      • no high school diploma: 42% compared to 37% for all occupations
      • high school diploma or equivalent: 35% compared to 22% for all occupations
      • apprenticeship or trades certificate or diploma: 6% compared to 11% for all occupations
      • college certificate or diploma or university certificate below bachelor's: 10% compared to 15% for all occupations
      • bachelor's degree: less than 5% compared to 10% for all occupations
      • university certificate, degree or diploma above bachelor level: less than 5% compared to 6% for all occupations

Related links

Canadian Occupational Projection System (COPS) - Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC)

Labour Market Information Survey
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