I am a 19 yr old student from Switzerland. About half a year ago, I met my boyfriend who is doing an internship here. As he is Canadian and needs to go back to Canada to finish his studies, I want to go with hime for a year (starting in late August).

I cannot afford staying in Canada as a tourist the whole time, I'll need a job, preferably something childcare or language related as I have previous experience in both fields. But I would also work in a restaurant or so, if that was the only work I could find.

Would it be possible to get a work permit without having a job? Could I get such a thing as an open work permit which would allow me to get a different job?

As a general rule, a job offer is required in order to be eligible to seek a work permit. The types of positions that you have described would all be subject to the requirement for a Service Canada Confirmation.

Youth programs for Swiss citizens do exist. You may wish to inquire with your local Canadian visa offices as to your eligibility and any quotas.