Who we are:

Children are at the front and center of what we do; they are the foundation of our purpose and the basis for our evidence-driven strategy. Our mission is to transform the lives of children, youth and their families by developing and delivering innovative, research-based mental health and early learning programs. At the Child Development Institute (CDI), we are passionate about helping our communities most vulnerable members and their caregivers. It motivates each of us to face what can be difficult situations while continuously finding the purest joy in play, in silence, in advice, and in the unbelievable strength and resilience of our young clients. Joining us now is a rewarding opportunity to be part of an organization that is built on a legacy of more than 100 years of helping children and families.

Recognized as a leader and model for measurement-based impact, we are client-centered, family-centered, and data-informed. We are a place where professionals grounded in mental health, care, and well-being of infants, children and youth, come together in collaboration, learning and inclusion. As a multiservice organization delivering social, emotional, and behavioural counselling services, early childhood education, learning disabilities and mental health services, and family violence services, we address the whole person from when they begin their life. Every child and family that reaches out to us is unique, and we value and embrace their individuality. We deliver the tailored support and tools they need to build life-long skills, positive mental health, and resilience. With their trust in us, we guide children and families along a supportive journey. It is an often-difficult path and simultaneously the most rewarding experience for providers, children and families.

Who we need:

We are seeking 2 Mindfulness Martial Arts Instructors to join our Therapeutic Recreation Programs team.

The successful candidates will serve as both a martial arts instructors and group facilitators within our Learning Disabilities & Mental Health (LDMH) program.



You will deliver the martial arts and physical training components of CDIs Therapeutic Martial Arts programs for children and youth ages 9 to 18.

These manualized, evidence-informed programs combine martial arts training, mindfulness practices, psychoeducation, and emotional regulation strategies to support positive mental health outcomes for children and youth.

Working hours will vary based on operational needs.

As our Martial Arts Instructor, you will:

1. Facilitate the martial arts and physical training components of CDIs Therapeutic Martial Arts programs using Kickboxing, Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, and mindfulness-based approaches, as outlined in the program manual.


2. Work collaboratively with another instructor to plan and deliver program activities and support effective group management.


3. Facilitate activities in an engaging, secure, and accessible manner, considering age, developmental ability, and individual participant needs.


4. Assess and manage physical, emotional, and social risks during group sessions.


5. Support participants using non-judgmental, trauma-informed, and strength-based behaviour management approaches.


6. Participate in post-group discussions and meetings with clients to support their physical, emotional, and mental health goals.


7. Complete all required documentation, including group reports, client notes, and incident reports.


8. Promptly communicate client concerns, including child protection concerns, to the Program Coordinator.


9. Perform other duties as assigned.

What you bring:

• Instructor-level experience in a relevant martial arts discipline, such as:
  
  
  
  • Kickboxing
  
  
  • Brazilian Jiu Jitsu
  
  
  • Judo
  
  
  
  






• Experience facilitating programs for children and youth in therapeutic, educational, recreational, or community settings.


• Experience within Learning Disabilities and Mental Health (LDMH) programs or a demonstrated interest in professional development in this area.


• Strong initiative, emotional regulation, communication, organization, and time-management skills.


• Ability to travel to the program location at 46 St. Clair Gardens.


• Availability to work a minimum of 3 hours per week, primarily evenings, as scheduled.

Working Conditions:

• Frequent interaction with children, youth, families, and colleagues.


• Moderate to high noise levels.


• Fast-paced and dynamic environment.


• Regular physical activity, including teaching and demonstrating martial arts techniques, fitness exercises, rolls, partner drills, and movement-based activities.


• Flexible availability, primarily evenings, with occasional weekend programming as needed.

Other requirements:

• All applicants are advised that offers of employment are contingent upon the successful completion of a Vulnerable Sector Check.


• Credential verifications and references are required.

Compensation:

CDI offers a competitive wage starting at $32.46 per hour. Experience and relevant credentials will also be considered. This is a casual non-bargaining position.

CDI is firmly committed to diversity within its community and welcomes applications from racialized persons/persons of color, Indigenous People of North America and the world, persons with disabilities, 2SLGBTQIA+ persons, and those who may contribute to the further diversification of ideas. We are committed to providing equitable opportunities in employment and to providing a workplace which is free from discrimination and harassment. We are equally committed to providing an inclusive and accessible workplace. If you require accommodations, please reach out to us at [email protected].