Child Care Teacher

Job Summary:

• Utilizing the Reggio education approach, the Child Care Teacher plans, develops, and implements creative and adaptive lesson plans while providing a safe, secure, and engaging environment for children aged six weeks to six years. As part of a teaching team, the Child Care Teacher fosters children's self-esteem, growth, and development through positive interactions and engaging learning experiences that encourage children to reach their full potential.

Required Skills & Experience:

• Previous experience working with children aged six weeks to six years (paid or unpaid).
• Minimum of two (2) years of formal experience working with children.
• Strong reasoning, problem-solving, and logical thinking abilities.
• Effective verbal and written communication skills.
• Reading comprehension and documentation skills.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced and frequently changing environment.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities simultaneously.
• Ability to handle frequent and intensive customer interactions.
• Ability to work effectively in a noisy environment.
• Ability to perform frequent bending, climbing, and other physical activities.
• Ability to hear effectively and speak clearly.

Preferred Skills & Experience:

• Experience working specifically with children aged six weeks to two years.
• Familiarity with the Reggio Emilia educational philosophy and teaching approach.

Education RequirementsRequired:

Option 1

• Associate degree (two-year degree) in Early Childhood Education, Child Psychology, Psychology, or a closely related field.

Option 2

• High School Diploma or equivalent.
• Minimum of 40 hours of coursework in Early Childhood Education or a related field (e.g., Child Psychology, Children's Literature).

OR

• An equivalent combination of education and experience.

Preferred:

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Early Childhood Education or Elementary Education.

Certifications & LicensureRequired

• None.

Preferred

• Child Development Associate (CDA) Credential.

Key Responsibilities:Curriculum Planning & Child Development

• Plan, develop, and implement lesson plans for the assigned classroom.
• Develop lesson plans and goals designed to nurture and promote cognitive, social, and motor development.
• Plan and promote gross motor, fine motor, language, and independence skills.
• Focus on enhancing children's self-concept and self-esteem through positive interactions with children and families.
• Demonstrate understanding and implementation of Reggio-inspired concepts in both indoor and outdoor learning environments.

Documentation & Communication

• Document children's daily progress and activities.
• Prepare and provide reports and feedback to parents.
• Maintain accurate records and written reports for each child.
• Review child data and facilitate smooth transitions into and out of the classroom for children and parents.
• Communicate children's needs with teachers, team leaders, site supervisors, and directors.

Classroom Management & Supervision

• Ensure classrooms are clean, organized, and free of health or safety hazards.
• Supervise teacher aides and volunteers within the classroom and center.
• Maintain collaborative working relationships with teachers and staff.
• Participate actively in staff meetings, special sessions, and required continuing education events.

Health, Safety & Infection Control

• Follow infection control procedures and maintain environmental safety standards.
• Clean and sanitize classroom furniture, toys, bookshelves, cots, and equipment routinely.
• Sweep and maintain floors to eliminate potential hazards.
• Remove broken toys and report unsafe play surfaces.
• Ensure proper playground supervision and staff coverage.
• Prepare and store cleaning solutions according to safety guidelines.
• Coordinate environmental and supply needs to maintain a safe, clean, and well-stocked learning environment.

Compliance & Program Support

• Adhere to all licensing and accrediting body requirements and standards.
• Follow established policies, procedures, and regulatory guidelines to support best practices for children and families.
• Support program goals that promote child autonomy, family involvement, respect for children's abilities, and enriched developmental experiences.
• Participate in special projects and perform additional duties as assigned.
• Accept alternate assignments as required.