Teacher's Aide

Teacher's Aide Job Description

Crystal's Cuddle Bugs Childcare Center

Position Summary

This position is responsible for assisting with daily classroom activities and supporting the instructional efforts of the Lead Teacher. The role may involve working with children ranging in age from six weeks through 11 years.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Supports and maintains a positive learning center environment.
• Maintains accurate head counts throughout the day.
• Assists with developmentally appropriate daily activities for children.
• Establishes and maintains a safe, healthy, and nurturing environment.
• Supervises children at all times to ensure safety.
• Assists with feeding, food safety, and allergy prevention.
• Responds appropriately to medical emergencies involving children.
• Assists with classroom setup and organization daily.
• Keeps the learning environment clean, organized, and sanitary.
• Attends staff meetings, center events, and required in-service training.
• Acts as a Mandated Reporter in accordance with state law.
• Performs other related duties as assigned by management.

Qualifications

Certificates, Licenses, and Training Requirements

• Adult & Pediatric CPR/First Aid must be obtained within 90 days of employment and maintained current.
• All required DHS training must be completed and kept up to date, which may include:
  • AHT
  • SUIDS
  • Risk Reduction
  • Supervision for Safety
  • Child Development courses
  • OSHA training
  • Any additional DHS-required training

Computer and Technology Skills

• Ability to download, manage, and utilize required computer and phone applications for onboarding, scheduling, documentation, and daily timekeeping.
• Ability to efficiently use the center's parent communication app via phone or tablet.
• Participation in staff communication apps (updates, chats, announcements) is required.
• Knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite is a plus.

Other Required Skills and Abilities

• Carries out childcare activities under the supervision of a Teacher or Assistant Teacher.
• Must be at least 16 years of age.
  • Employees under 18 must be directly supervised by a Teacher or Assistant Teacher, except when assisting with toileting or diapering, or as permitted under Rule 3 requirements and exceptions.
  • Employees over the age of 18 years old may not always be supervised by a teacher or an assistant teacher as permitted under Rule 3 requirements and exceptions.
• Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing.
• Ability to understand and follow safety procedures and specific instructions.
• Ability to plan and support activities that encourage healthy child development.
• Strong child supervision skills.
• Ability to provide a supportive, nurturing, and caring environment.
• Skill in preparing instructional materials and assisting with lesson plans.

Core Competencies

Diversity

• Shows respect and sensitivity for cultural differences.
• Educates others on the value of diversity.
• Promotes a harassment-free environment.
• Supports a diverse workforce.

Ethics

• Treats others with respect.
• Keeps commitments.
• Works with integrity and upholds organizational values.

Attendance and Punctuality

• Is consistently at work and on time.
• Ensures responsibilities are covered when absent.
• Arrives on time for meetings and appointments.

Dependability

• Follows instructions and takes responsibility for actions.
• Completes tasks on time or communicates alternate plans when needed.

Initiative

• Volunteers readily and seeks growth opportunities.
• Takes on additional responsibilities when appropriate.
• Asks for and offers help when needed.

Oral Communication

• Speaks clearly and listens attentively.
• Responds well to questions and participates in meetings.

Professionalism

• Approaches others tactfully and respectfully.
• Reacts well under pressure.
• Accepts responsibility and follows through on commitments.

Safety and Security

• Observes safety and security procedures.
• Reports unsafe conditions promptly.
• Uses equipment and materials properly.

Teamwork

• Balances team and individual responsibilities.
• Supports coworkers and contributes to a positive team environment.
• Puts team success above personal interests.

Written Communication

• Writes clearly and accurately.
• Edits work for grammar and spelling.
• Reads and interprets written information effectively.

Physical Demands and Work Environment

• Frequently required to stand, walk, and sit.
• Frequent use of hands and fingers for fine motor tasks.
• Occasionally required to climb, balance, bend, stoop, kneel, or crawl.
• Continually required to talk and hear.
• Occasionally exposed to wet or humid conditions.
• Occasionally works in high or precarious places.
• Frequently exposed to outdoor weather conditions.
• Frequently exposed to bloodborne, airborne, or infectious materials.
• Noise level ranges from moderate to loud.
• Must be able to lift and/or move up to 40 pounds.
• Vision requirements include close vision, distance vision, and peripheral vision.