Some of the moments families remember most are the smallest ones. A child’s first steps. Their first words. The first time they pour a glass of milk or zip up a winter jacket by themselves. At YMCA child care programs across the Greater Toronto Area (GTA), educators are there for those moments and make a lasting impact on children every day. 

Educators do more than supervise. They help create safe, supportive environments where children grow and make memories — and families feel peace of mind. In our In Conversation with Educators series, these educators shared stories that highlight the depth of their impact.

Helping families feel at ease

“I think as educators, that’s the impact we have because families can leave their children with peace of mind,” explains Natasha, a YMCA child care manager with more than 25 years of experience.

That trust begins with safety and care. During the pandemic, Chantol, a YMCA child care recruiter who began her career as an RECE, noticed that after the pandemic families started to see the depth of what educators do every day. “It just really made them realize, our educators are not babysitters. They are engaging with the children. They are making sure that they are reaching milestones and given opportunities to learn.”

When families see the daily routines — the safe arrival and dismissal procedures, the allergy plans, the way educators know each child by name — it builds a level of confidence that makes leaving their child each morning a little easier.

Supporting milestones, big and small

Susan, a YMCA supervisor, remembered a mother who was worried that her toddler wouldn’t be able to participate in the program because she couldn’t yet walk.

“I said, ‘Mom, let’s try it. Let’s see first. We want to work with you. We don’t know if we don’t try.’”

With the help of resource consultants, the team introduced stretches and activities. Over time, that toddler took her first steps. “She’s walking without breaks. The mom is so thankful, like, so thankful . We just look at her every day, and we’re just like, you’re walking.” 

These moments are not just victories for the child and family. They are reminders for educators that their patience and belief make a difference.

Finding purpose in the work

For Natasha, this work  also has a personal impact. “I was a newcomer. I had not much confidence. And I found a voice. I found my place. There was purpose in my work.”

For Chantol, purpose comes in the small daily wins. “Those milestones might not be mine, but I feel fulfilled being a part of it.” Watching children meet goals like potty training or learning to walk confirmed for her that she had found the right career path.

Memories that last a lifetime

Denzel, an RECE in YMCA Before and After School programs, shared what it was like to reconnect with a child he had cared for a decade earlier.

“He came up to me and said, ‘Do you remember me? You were my educator back in the day.’ It almost made me cry to see what he was doing. He was faster than me, bigger than me. And I thought, he’s better than me now.”

Moments like that show how educators leave a mark that children carry with them long after they have moved on to new schools, new teams, and new stages of life.

Inspiration that spreads

Valerie, an RECE, remembered a day when her colleague Petra hopped onto a preschool tricycle, knees high, racing alongside the children.

“You weren’t only making an impact on the kids, Petra. You made a big impact on me. That’s what I want when I walk in.” 

For Valerie, the joy and energy of that moment showed how one educator’s presence can inspire both children and colleagues. It is proof that lasting impact comes not just from teaching but also from modelling enthusiasm, patience, and care.

Why it matters

Educators at the YMCA of Greater Toronto do more than guide routines. They change lives. They celebrate milestones with families, build children’s confidence, and carry memories that last long after the classroom lights are turned off. 

For families, it means peace of mind. For educators, it means purpose and pride. And for children, it means having caring adults who believe in them every step of the way.

Because the lasting impact of a YMCA educator is not just what children learn today — it is who they grow to be tomorrow.