- Plan and implement developmentally appropriate lessons and activities based on the children’s ages, abilities, interests, and individual needs.
- Establish a consistent daily routine that includes learning activities, sensory play, music and movement, outdoor play, meals, rest time, and diapering or toileting.
- Create a warm, welcoming, and inclusive classroom environment in which every child feels safe, respected, and valued.
- Support toddlers as they develop communication, independence, self-regulation, social skills, and positive relationships.
- Supervise children closely and maintain appropriate staff-to-child ratios at all times.
- Follow all diapering, toileting, feeding, handwashing, sanitizing, and classroom-cleaning procedures.
- Observe and document children’s development, behavior, interests, and progress.
- Communicate regularly with families regarding their child’s daily experiences, development, accomplishments, and concerns.
- Build respectful and professional relationships with parents and caregivers.
- Provide direction, support, and feedback to assistant teachers and classroom aides.
- Assign classroom responsibilities and ensure that all staff members understand the daily schedule and safety expectations.
- Maintain an organized, attractive, and age-appropriate classroom.
- Inspect classroom materials and equipment regularly to ensure they are clean, safe, and in good condition.
- Assist children during transitions and provide reassurance during separation, rest time, and other challenging moments.
- Use positive guidance and age-appropriate behavior-management techniques.
- Recognize and respond appropriately to signs of illness, injury, developmental concerns, or changes in a child’s behavior.
- Maintain accurate attendance, incident, accident, medication, meal, diapering, and developmental records.
- Participate in staff meetings, professional-development programs, school events, and family conferences.
- Follow all school policies, confidentiality requirements, emergency procedures, and state childcare regulations.
- Perform additional classroom or school-related duties as assigned by the director.
Qualifications
- High school diploma or equivalent required.
- Associate or bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education, Child Development, Education, or a related field preferred.
- Child Development Associate credential preferred or required based on state regulations.
- Previous experience working with toddlers in a licensed childcare or early childhood setting.
- Knowledge of toddler development, developmentally appropriate practices, and positive behavior guidance.
- Current certification in pediatric First Aid and CPR, or willingness to obtain certification.
- Ability to complete all required background checks, health clearances, and state-mandated training.
- Strong communication, organization, leadership, and classroom-management skills.
- Ability to work cooperatively with children, families, coworkers, and administrators.
Job Types: Full-time, Part-time
Pay: $16.00 - $20.00 per hour
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- Dental insurance
- Health insurance
- Vision insurance
Ability to Commute:
- East Meadow, NY 11554 (Required)
Ability to Relocate:
- East Meadow, NY 11554: Relocate before starting work (Required)
Work Location: In person
