Early Childhood Substitute Teacher - Nature Based Program

Early Childhood Substitute Teacher

Nature-Based Program | Ann Arbor Area

ECE Subhub is seeking an energetic, adaptable Long-Term Early Childhood Substitute Teacher to support one of our nature-immersive partner programs in the Ann Arbor area. This is a great opportunity for an educator who loves the outdoors, embraces child-led exploration, and enjoys working in a diverse, inclusive early childhood community.

This placement is with a program that spends the majority of each day outside exploring natural playscapes, gardens, and the surrounding community — rain, shine, mud, or snow. Educators who thrive in this environment enjoy staying active, getting messy, and supporting children as they learn through movement, nature, creativity, and hands-on discovery.

The program operates across multiple locations, including Upper School, two Lower School locations, and a Spanish Immersion Center. Each site offers a unique environment designed to encourage curiosity, independence, and meaningful exploration.

About the Program

Lower School

Ages: 6 weeks–2.5 years
Child-to-teacher ratio: 4:1
Daily attendance: Approximately 25 children
Hours: 8:30 AM–5:30 PM

The Lower School provides a warm, nurturing environment for infants and toddlers. Children are cared for in small, loving family-style groups where mixed-age play, responsive caregiving, and nature-based routines are part of each day.

Program features include:

• Nature-based themes woven into daily routines

• Small, family-style classroom groups

• Organic morning and afternoon snacks

• Cloth-diaper friendly practices

• Baby-wearing supportive environment

• A nurturing, relationship-centered approach to infant and toddler care

Upper School

Ages: 2.5–5 years
Child-to-teacher ratio: 8:1
Daily attendance: Approximately 30 children
Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:30 AM–5:30 PM

The Upper School is designed for active, curious preschoolers who learn through exploration, collaboration, and outdoor play. Children spend much of the day in natural playscapes, gardens, and community spaces where they can investigate, create, and build confidence.

Program features include:

• Classrooms designed for exploration across subjects and materials

• Daily outdoor learning and play

• Natural playscapes and garden spaces

• Community walks and neighborhood exploration

• Child-led discovery and hands-on learning experiences

A Welcoming and Inclusive Community

This partner program is deeply committed to creating an inclusive, affirming environment for children, families, and staff. The community welcomes people of all identities, backgrounds, and experiences, including a strong and visible LGBTQ+ community.

Educators who are successful in this placement bring openness, authenticity, respect, and a genuine commitment to helping every child feel safe, valued, and supported.

This opportunity is open to both emerging and experienced educators.

What You’ll Do

As a Long-Term Early Childhood Substitute Teacher, you will support the daily routines and learning experiences of a nature-based classroom. Depending on the needs of the program, you may assist with or lead:

• Outdoor learning and exploration

• Classroom routines and transitions

• Child-led play and hands-on activities

• Relationship-building with children and staff

• Curriculum implementation and daily learning experiences

• Infant, toddler, or preschool care routines

• Safe supervision during indoor, outdoor, and community-based activities

Educators in this program view children as capable, curious learners who grow through exploration, problem-solving, creativity, and meaningful interactions with the natural world.

About Working With ECE Subhub

At ECE Subhub, you’ll be supported every step of the way. We provide training, guidance, and ongoing support so you feel prepared and confident in your placement.

This role is ideal for individuals who enjoy early childhood education and are looking for meaningful, flexible work with young children.

Benefits of working with ECE Subhub include:

• Work with children ages 0–5

• Consistent weekly availability required, with a minimum of two days per week

• Great fit for retirees, college students, career changers, and those re-entering the workforce

• Comprehensive training and ongoing support

• Opportunity to gain hands-on experience in early childhood classrooms

• Supportive team environment

Minimum Qualifications

Candidates must meet one of the following qualifications:

• Current CDA, or

• Associate’s degree, or

• 18 college credits in one of the following areas:

  • Early Childhood Education

  • Special Education

  • Child Development

  • Social Work

  • Human Services

  • Youth or Family Studies

  • Elementary Education

We’re Looking For Someone Who Is

• Comfortable spending extended time outdoors in all seasons

• Warm, dependable, and flexible

• Respectful of children’s individuality and developmental needs

• Excited about nature-based, child-led learning

• Comfortable getting messy, staying active, and engaging in outdoor play

• Inclusive, open-minded, and respectful of diverse communities

• Able to build positive relationships with children, families, and staff