Infant & Toddler Assistant Teacher

Job Description

Job Description

Benefits:

• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Vision insurance

The Infant & Toddler Assistant Teacher supports the Lead Teacher in providing a safe, nurturing, and engaging learning environment for children from birth to two and a half years old. The Assistant Teacher assists with implementing developmentally appropriate activities, maintaining classroom routines, ensuring the health and safety of all children, and fostering positive relationships with children, families, and staff.

Minimum Qualifications

• Associate's degree or Child Development Associate (CDA) credential in Early Childhood Education (ECE), Child Development, or a closely related field.
• Minimum of 2 years of experience working with infants and toddlers in a licensed early childhood setting.
• Knowledge of child development, developmentally appropriate practices (DAP), and positive behavior guidance.
• Current CPR and First Aid Certification (or ability to obtain upon hire).
• Ability to successfully complete all required background checks and meet state licensing requirements.

Professional Appearance Requirement: Employees are expected to maintain a professional appearance while working with children and families. Visible facial piercings are not permitted during working hours and must be removed prior to the start of each shift.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Classroom Support

• Assist the Lead Teacher in implementing developmentally appropriate curriculum and daily lesson plans.
• Help create a warm, welcoming, and inclusive classroom environment.
• Supervise children at all times to ensure their safety and well-being.
• Support children during indoor and outdoor activities, meals, naps, diapering, toileting, and transitions.
• Prepare classroom materials and learning centers as directed by the Lead Teacher.

Child Development

• Encourage children's social, emotional, cognitive, language, and physical development through meaningful interactions.
• Observe and share information regarding children's progress with the Lead Teacher.
• Support children's independence, self-help skills, and positive social interactions.
• Assist with maintaining children's portfolios and classroom documentation as assigned.

Family Engagement

• Greet families warmly and communicate respectfully with parents and guardians.
• Maintain confidentiality regarding children and families.
• Direct questions or concerns to the Lead Teacher or administration when appropriate.

Health and Safety

• Follow all health, sanitation, and safety procedures.
• Assist with diapering, feeding, handwashing, and safe sleep practices according to program policies.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and sanitized classroom environment.
• Report accidents, incidents, illnesses, or concerns immediately to the Lead Teacher and administration.

Program Compliance

• Follow all state licensing regulations, program policies, and classroom procedures.
• Complete assigned documentation accurately and on time.
• Attend required staff meetings, trainings, and professional development.
• Support accreditation and quality improvement initiatives.

Team Collaboration

• Work cooperatively with the Lead Teacher, administration, and other staff members.
• Demonstrate professionalism, reliability, flexibility, and a positive attitude.
• Accept feedback and actively contribute to a collaborative team environment.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Understanding of infant and toddler development.
• Ability to build nurturing relationships with young children.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Good organizational and time management skills.
• Ability to work effectively as part of a team.
• Dependable, patient, and committed to providing high-quality care and education.

Physical Requirements

• Lift and carry children weighing up to 40 pounds.
• Sit on the floor, bend, kneel, squat, and stand for extended periods.
• Push strollers, move classroom equipment, and actively participate in indoor and outdoor activities.
• Respond quickly and appropriately in emergency situations.

Work Schedule

• Full-time position.
• Must maintain reliable attendance and punctuality.
• Occasional evening meetings, family events, or professional development may be required.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in a NAEYC-accredited or state-funded early childhood program.
• Familiarity with developmental assessments and early learning standards.
• Bilingual (preferred but not required).

The Infant & Toddler Assistant Teacher is expected to uphold the mission and values of the program by working collaboratively with the Lead Teacher to provide high-quality care and education in a safe, respectful, and nurturing environment that supports each child's growth, development, and overall well-being.