Nature Based Co-Teacher (1 Year Old Classroom)

Where curiosity grows and little personalities begin to bloom.

Do you believe the toddler years are filled with wonder, discovery and important firsts?
Do you find joy in supporting one-year-olds as they begin to walk, communicate, explore and develop their independence?

First Roots – Wild Roots is seeking a warm, patient and collaborative Toddler Co-Teacher to join our 5-STAR nature-based early childhood program serving one-year-old children.

Here, teaching is not just a job — it’s meaningful work that supports children during one of the most important stages of development.

At First Roots – Wild Roots, our toddler classrooms are rooted in relationships, movement, exploration and connection to the natural world. Our educators create environments where young children feel safe, confident, curious and deeply cared for.

You’ll be part of a team that believes:

• Children are capable, curious learners.
• Relationships are the foundation of growth.
• Nature provides endless opportunities for discovery.
• Toddlers learn best through play, movement and hands-on experiences.

What You’ll Do:

As a Co-Teacher working with one-year-olds, you’ll help create a nurturing and engaging environment where toddlers can safely explore their growing independence.

Building strong relationships:

• Creating warm, responsive connections with toddlers and their families.
• Supporting emotional regulation, social development and secure attachments.
• Helping children feel safe, seen and supported throughout their day.

Supporting exploration and development:

• Planning developmentally appropriate experiences based on children’s interests and emerging skills.
• Encouraging language development, movement, sensory exploration and early social interactions.
• Supporting important milestones such as walking, self-help skills and communication.

Teaching through nature and play:

• Engaging toddlers in outdoor exploration and nature-based learning experiences.
• Creating inviting indoor and outdoor environments that inspire curiosity and discovery.
• Using natural materials and open-ended play to support learning.

Observing and documenting learning:

• Paying close attention to each child’s development and individual needs.
• Documenting growth, interests and milestones.
• Using observations to guide curriculum aligned with Vermont Early Learning Standards.

Being part of a collaborative team:

• Working closely with co-teachers and program leadership.
• Participating in professional development and staff meetings.
• Contributing to a positive, supportive and reflective workplace culture.

We’re looking for educators who bring both skill and heart to their work.

Ideal candidates will have:

• Experience working with toddlers or young children.
• Education in Early Childhood Education, Environmental Education or a related field preferred.
• A passion for nature-based learning and child-led exploration.
• Strong communication and teamwork skills.
• A calm, nurturing and patient presence.

And just as important…

• You enjoy being outdoors in all seasons.
• You find joy in toddler curiosity and tiny accomplishments.
• You can embrace the unpredictability and wonder of toddlerhood.
• You bring warmth, flexibility, humor and kindness to your work each day.

We believe that classrooms and workplaces thrive when all voices are welcomed and respected . We encourage applicants of all identities, backgrounds and experiences to apply.

Our Mission: We are a 5 STAR, nature focused early care and education program that views each child as an individual with a unique developmental profile. Through developmentally responsive outdoor programming, we serve children ages 6 weeks to 8 years. Our mission is to Achieve the highest level of professional development, Build a community where families feel connected and respected, and to cultivate sustainable environmental choices and business practices to support the health and well being of all who work and play here!

Our Purpose: These are our fundamental reasons for doing what we do. If these resonate with you, we'd love to hear from you!

• Dental insurance.
• Employee discount.
• Health insurance.
• Life insurance.
• Paid time off.
• Professional development assistance.
• Relocation assistance.
• Tuition reimbursement.
• Vision insurance.

Education:

• Associate (Preferred)

Experience:

• Early Childhood Education: 1 year (Preferred)

License/Certification:

• CPR Certification (Preferred)

Work Location: In person