Who we are

The Association of Early Childhood Educators Ontario (AECEO) is the professional association for early childhood educators (ECEs) in Ontario. Established in 1950, the AECEO has been directly involved in important developments in early childhood education and care, playing a key role in the areas of training, public awareness, certification, networking, and recognition for the ECE profession in our province. Through our government relations, public education, and community building initiatives, the AECEO advocates for the respect and recognition early childhood professionals deserve. 

Our Mission

The mission of the AECEO is to build and support a strong collective voice for early childhood educators so they can participate in the systems that impact their work, and influence positive change that benefits the workforce, children, families, and communities. 

Our Vision

ECEs are world builders. With their knowledge, skills, and care, ECEs build the worlds that children and families experience every day. Whether it’s in early learning and child care programs, family support services or kindergarten classrooms, early childhood education doesn’t exist without the professionals who provide it.

In every aspect of our work, the AECEO aims to support, empower, and elevate ECE professionals. We advocate for systemic change that recognizes the value of ECEs and respects their education, experience, and talents with professional wages and decent working conditions.

Our Work

Professional Development for ECEs - the AECEO offers accessible and affordable ECE-led professional learning opportunities both online and in person. Since 1992, the AECEO has published eceLINK, a journal that includes pieces written by the ECE community and peer-reviewed academic papers related to early childhood education, pedagogy, etc.  

Networking and Community Building - the AECEO hosts community care sessions, meet-ups, and members-only events to offer a variety of opportunities for educators to expand their networks and connect with peers from different areas of the sector/province. 

Policy and Research - in consultation with the ECE workforce and community partners, the AECEO produces reports, policy briefs and other publications related to early childhood education and care policies.

Information Dissemination - through newsletters, social media and our podcast, the AECEO shares information and news updates that are relevant to early childhood educators in Ontario.