It is crucial to remember that the specific criteria vary greatly between locations and businesses. Different organizations may have their own certification or training requirements, depending on their standards and the demographic they serve. As a result, it is best to verify with local regulatory agencies or organizations where you want to work as a Youth Care Worker to get accurate and up-to-date information on the education and certification requirements in your area.
Others will most likely describe the ideal candidate as authentic, service-focused, responsible, organized, and outgoing, as well as having good interpersonal skills and the capacity to create healthy relationships with children and teenagers in care using a trauma-informed lens.
The duties of this position include, but are not limited to:
Build and maintain trusted connections, and show respect for individuality.
Maintain a safe and secure environment for adolescents by preventing unauthorized departures, according to security protocols established in the Policy Manual, and promoting mental stability to lessen anxiety.
Performing day-to-day tasks and youth-centered programming
Participate in meal preparation.
Celebrate and promote the youth’s self-concept.
Advocate for each child/youth, and ensure access to the Office of the Child and Youth Advocate.
Provide a caring and nurturing setting that addresses the youth’s current emotional state.
Help youth develop basic life skills such as social information processing, cognitive reframing, and self-regulation learning.
Successful candidates will have:
Requirements for this position include a Grade 12 diploma, three (3) years of relevant experience caring for children/youth, and post-secondary education in Social Work or Human Services (certificate, diploma, or degree).
Recognizing Indigenous Traditions and Beliefs, and the significance of culturally appropriate care.
Respected varied groups, ethnicities, identities, genders, and sexualities while comprehending language and pronouns.
Capability to connect cross-culturally and collaborate effectively with individuals and groups, including those with socially marginalized identities and experiences
A criminal record check, a child intervention check, and a driver’s abstract will be requested as part of the pre-employment screening process.
Heritage Family Services, a children and family services provider, is a person-centered, service-oriented team that takes an attachment-based, developmental approach to caregiving. Direct care personnel are educated in Therapeutic and Nonviolent Crisis Intervention and are supported by a competent Clinical Team to help all of the people we assist develop and change. With a forty-year track record of serving children and families in Alberta, Heritage Family Services’ values of authenticity, service, quality, and responsibility attract both new and experienced human services professionals seeking long-term, rewarding careers in a positive, fulfilling environment.
Heritage Family Services is an equal opportunity company dedicated to providing job opportunities for all individuals.
What skills and attributes are essential for a Care Worker?
Youth Care Workers play an important role in giving support, advice, and care to young people who are facing difficult situations or in need of help. To flourish in this profession, Youth Care Workers must have a set of abilities and attributes that allow them to connect with and positively touch the lives of the young people they deal with.
Empathy and Compassion: Youth Care Workers must sincerely care about the well-being and development of young people. They should be able to comprehend and identify with the feelings, experiences, and obstacles that young people confront, as well as demonstrate empathy and compassion throughout interactions.
Active Listening: Effective communication is essential for developing trust and connection with young people. Youth Care Workers should be competent listeners, paying close attention and allowing youth to express themselves without judgment. Active listening aids in understanding their requirements, issues, and objectives.
Patience and flexibility are essential qualities for youth care workers because they frequently encounter complex and difficult situations. Patience is necessary when working with young kids who may be experiencing behavioral disorders, trauma, or other difficulties. Being flexible and adaptable allows Youth Care Workers to tailor their approach and techniques to each youth’s unique requirements.
Positive Role Modeling: Youth Care Workers should be positive role models, displaying healthy habits, high values, and great interpersonal skills. They should aim to motivate and guide young people to make positive decisions and learn crucial life skills.
Youth Care Workers may confront crises or disputes while working with young people. Crisis management, de-escalation tactics, and conflict resolution skills aid in efficiently dealing with difficult situations while also maintaining the safety and well-being of kids.
It’s vital to note that the specific abilities and attributes required for an adolescents Care Worker can differ based on the environment or specialization, such as working with at-risk adolescents, foster care, or residential treatment programs.
What education and certifications are required to become a Care Worker?
The education and certification requirements for becoming a Youth Care Worker differ by country, state, or province, as well as the specific company or organization. Here’s an overview of the typical requirements:
Education: A high school diploma or equivalent is usually the minimal educational qualification for becoming a youth care worker. However, many businesses prefer people with postsecondary education in a related subject, such as social work, psychology, child and adolescent care, or counseling. Some positions may demand a bachelor’s degree in a related field.
Training Programs: Completing a relevant training program can provide valuable information and skills for working with young people. Community colleges, vocational institutions, and specialist training institutes may all offer these programs. Training programs can address topics such as child and adolescent development, trauma-informed care, behavior management techniques, crisis intervention, and communication skills.
Employers may require or prefer individuals who have previous experience dealing with youth. Volunteering, internships, and employment in youth-related settings, such as community centers, residential facilities, or after-school programs, can all provide valuable experience.
Certification: Depending on the jurisdiction and the employer’s unique needs, Youth Care Workers may be required to be certified or licensed. Certification programs can boost credibility and indicate expertise in the industry. The certification procedure may include completing specified training modules, passing tests, and meeting experience requirements.
Background Checks: Many employers in the juvenile care industry need candidates to go through a background check, which includes criminal records and vulnerable sector screenings. This is to secure the safety and well-being of the youth under their care.
Heritage Family Services is now looking for experienced Child and Youth Care Workers to provide relief support. This is a fantastic opportunity to obtain experience in a range of initiatives within the firm, with room for growth and progress. All new hires must be able to attend five (5) days of training, Monday through Friday, from 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
