Lead Toddler Teacher

Job Description

Job Description

Lead Toddler Teacher

La Cristianita Preschool
San Clemente, California

Position Summary

La Cristianita Preschool is seeking a nurturing, energetic, and experienced Lead Toddler Teacher to lead a classroom serving children approximately 18 to 36 months of age. The ideal candidate is passionate about early childhood development, understands the unique needs of toddlers, and can create a safe, engaging, and developmentally appropriate learning environment that supports social-emotional growth, independence, and exploration.

The Lead Toddler Teacher is responsible for classroom management, curriculum implementation, child supervision, parent communication, and ensuring compliance with all Community Care Licensing regulations and school policies.

Essential Duties and ResponsibilitiesClassroom Leadership

• Lead and manage a toddler classroom in accordance with school philosophy and licensing regulations.
• Create and maintain a safe, organized, welcoming, and engaging learning environment.
• Foster positive relationships with children through responsive caregiving and developmentally appropriate interactions.
• Support children's social-emotional development, self-help skills, language development, and emerging independence.
• Guide behavior using positive redirection, modeling, and developmentally appropriate behavior support techniques.

Curriculum and Planning

• Develop and implement age-appropriate curriculum and learning experiences.
• Plan activities that encourage sensory exploration, language development, fine and gross motor skills, and early cognitive development.
• Incorporate play-based learning opportunities that support individual developmental needs.
• Maintain classroom materials and learning centers.

Child Supervision and Safety

• Provide active supervision at all times.
• Maintain compliance with all Community Care Licensing regulations.
• Ensure classroom ratios are maintained at all times.
• Monitor children's health, safety, and well-being throughout the day.
• Follow all emergency procedures and safety protocols.

Family Communication

• Build positive relationships with families.
• Communicate children's progress, milestones, and daily activities.
• Address parent questions and concerns professionally and respectfully.
• Participate in conferences, family events, and school functions as requested.

Team Collaboration

• Work collaboratively with teaching staff, administration, and support personnel.
• Provide guidance and support to assistant teachers and aides assigned to the classroom.
• Participate in staff meetings, training, and continuing education opportunities.
• Maintain professionalism and confidentiality at all times.

Documentation and Record Keeping

• Complete required child observations and developmental assessments.
• Maintain accurate attendance and classroom records.
• Ensure all required documentation is completed in a timely manner.
• Assist with licensing compliance documentation as needed.

QualificationsRequired

• Minimum 12 ECE units including 3 Infant/Toddler units
• At least 2 years of experience working with toddlers in a licensed early childhood setting.
• Current Pediatric CPR and First Aid certification (or ability to obtain upon hire).
• Ability to meet all Community Care Licensing requirements.
• Ability to lift up to 40 pounds and actively participate in classroom activities.

Preferred

• Lead teacher experience in a licensed preschool or child care center.
• Experience with play-based, child-led, nature-based, or Montessori-inspired programs.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Strong understanding of toddler development and behavior.
• Excellent classroom management skills.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to remain calm, patient, and flexible in a fast-paced environment.
• Commitment to providing high-quality early childhood education and care.

Benefits

• Competitive compensation
• Health, dental, and vision insurance eligibility
• Paid holidays
• Paid time off
• 100% employee tuition coverage for children
• Professional development opportunities