Infant and Toddler Lead Teacher

Job Description

Job Description

About This Role

This Lead Teacher role involves developing and overseeing an educational program for infants and toddlers, ensuring a nurturing environment that fosters their social, emotional, cognitive, and physical growth. The successful candidate will be responsible for planning, implementing, and supervising the program, as well as leading a team of classroom staff and working closely with families. This position requires a strong commitment to providing a safe and stimulating environment that supports the overall development of the children in our care.

• Develop and implement engaging learning experiences and curriculum tailored to the unique needs and abilities of each child.
• Collect, maintain, and analyze child development records, individualized goals, and lesson plans to ensure a comprehensive understanding of each child’s progress.
• Administer developmental screenings and participate in the DAEG and IFSP processes to support each child’s development and growth.
• Conduct regular observations and assessments of children’s development, documenting their progress and identifying areas of strength and need.
• Provide high-quality care and support to children, utilizing positive behavior strategies to promote social, emotional, and cognitive development.
• Ensure the smooth operation of daily routines, including feeding, diapering, and care activities, while maintaining a safe and healthy environment.
• Support and supervise a team of classroom staff and volunteers, promoting a positive and inclusive work environment.
• Use evidence-based positive guidance and behavior management strategies to promote children’s social, emotional, and cognitive development.
• Maintain a safe and organized learning environment, ensuring smooth transitions and minimizing disruptions.
• Foster strong relationships with children, families, and staff, promoting a culture of respect, trust, and open communication.
• Collaborate with program staff to develop and implement strategies that support the overall development and well-being of children and families.
• Ensure compliance with health, safety, and sanitation standards, maintaining a clean and hygienic environment for all children and staff.
• Ensure active supervision and safe learning environments at all times, administering first aid and medication as needed according to established procedures.
• Attend required training and professional development activities to enhance knowledge and skills, staying up-to-date with best practices and regulations.
• Maintain adherence to program policies and regulations, participating in meetings, supervision, and quality improvement activities as required.

• Infant/Toddler Child Development Associate (CDA) credential (required)
• Knowledge of developmentally appropriate practices for children aged 0-3 years
• Knowledge of Head Start/Early Head Start program standards
• High School Diploma (required)
• Valid Driver’s License and/or access to transportation to other centers as needed
• Ability to meet and maintain compliance with ODJFS, USDA, Health, and Sanitation regulations

• Bilingual (English/Spanish or other languages) is a plus
• Previous experience working with infants and toddlers in a group setting (preferred)
• Associate’s in Early Childhood Education, Child Development, or a related field (preferred)
• Experience working with culturally and linguistically diverse families
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite (Outlook, Word, Excel, etc.)
• Ability to meet and maintain compliance with ODJFS, USDA, Health, and Sanitation regulations
• Excellent interpersonal, verbal, and written communication skills
• Organized, detail-oriented, with problem-solving and good decision-making skills
• Collaborative, team-oriented with a positive and dedicated work ethic to children and families
• Willingness to continue professional education and learning
• Demonstrated knowledge of child and family curriculum, Conscious Discipline principles, and Head Start practices

• Health Insurance
• Dental Insurance
• Vision Insurance
• Life Insurance
• Paid Leave
• Retirement Plan
• Tuition Assistance
• Child Care Discount
• Professional Development

• Student Loan Forgiveness and paid holidays.

  Miami Valley Child Development Centers provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.

  This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training.