Who We Are

Provincial Board, Branches and Office Staff

The Association of Early Childhood Educators Ontario (AECEO) is a voluntary professional association that represents the interests of Early Childhood Educators across the province.

The AECEO began as a grassroots organization in 1950. It evolved due to the growing demand for childcare after World War II and the absence of government regulations and the lack of formal training. AECEO members are dedicated to creating awareness and respect for the education and care of young children in Ontario. Today, AECEO provides essential services and opportunities for the profession.

For a history on the AECEO, click here

Purpose Statement
We are the professional association for early childhood educators in Ontario.

Mission Statement
To serve and act on behalf of early childhood educators in Ontario by: Supporting the professional growth of early childhood educators through the provision and pro-motion of ongoing professional development, training and best practices; Advocating on behalf of the profession; Promoting and supporting quality early learning and care as an integral part of a child’s healthy development; Disseminating research, educational resources and topical information about early learning and care to the public, governments and other related professionals; Coordinating opportunities for communication and networking among early childhood educa-tors and others interested in early childhood education and care; Promoting and supporting research and advancement in the field of early childhood education and care; Building capacity and leadership between the profession, communities and stakeholder groups to advocate for children and families; Making known to parents and the general public the value and importance of early childhood education and early childhood educators, and; Facilitating certification and supporting equivalency of early childhood educators

Our Code of Ethics

The AECEO Code of Ethics reflects a core set of beliefs and values which are fundamental to our field and serve to inform our practice as Early Childhood Educators. Members of the AECEO, through the Code of Ethics, publicly acknowledge their commitment to these beliefs and values and recognize their responsibility to use the Code of Ethics on a day to day basis to guide their behaviour in working with the children and families of Ontario. For the most recent AECEO Code of Ethics, click here

Careers in ECE

What is an ECE?
Becoming an ECE

Publications and Media
For information, click here.