Daycare - Lead Teacher, Infant & Toddler

POSITION SUMMARY

The Lead Teacher will function as a link between the infant aged group and the younger toddler group. The Lead Teacher will develop a relationship with families through a multitude of activities, one to one contact and will utilize a full range of community based social services to support families in meeting the school readiness and developmental needs of children 6 weeks through 24 months of age. The Lead Teacher will take an active role in a wide range of program sponsored initiatives, events, and community building activities. Is responsible for providing a warm and nurturing early learning environment that meets the needs of each child. Is responsible for the children’s health and safety at all times. Plans and implements learning readiness skills and social experiences appropriate to the age level of the children.

DUTES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Is responsible for, but not limited to the following functions:

Parent Advocacy and Education:

• Will serve as a model for positive interpersonal relationships developing parent child interactions.
• Helps parents to understand their role in supporting socially and intellectually competent behavior in their children and helping them learn techniques to perform this role.
• Educates parents regarding relevant issues such as child development, health care, accident prevention, feeding and nutrition and physical activity.
• The Lead Teacher will develop a rapport and positive relationship with infant/ toddler families assisting in the process of transitioning to older toddlers.

Social Services Networking and Referral:

• The Lead Teacher will help families identify resources such as medical, nutrition, behavioral or environmental needs in coordination with the Early Childhood Therapist.
• Advocating for families and supporting them in utilizing available resources.

Community Building /Outreach:

• The Lead Teacher will participate in program sponsored initiatives, events, and community building activities.
• Participate in community sponsored events distributing information about the program and offering children’s activities if appropriate.

Teamwork:

• The Lead Teacher will coordinate with the Lead Preschool Teacher ensuring children and parents receive relevant information about the health and development of their child.
• The Lead Teacher will meet with the Lead PS teacher to review curriculum, develop lesson plans, review assessments, and write goals for younger toddlers who will transition to older toddlers.
• Will participate in staff training sessions, when necessary, by the Director.

Communication/Interpersonal Skills.

• The Lead Teacher will develop appropriate, respectful relationships with parents, children, colleagues, and services providers.
• Utilize effective communication skills and the ability to recognize and respect different value systems.
• Use sensitivity in working with a diverse participant population.

Record Keeping/Documentation Skills:

• Keep accurate and up to date records on all assigned families.
• Utilize effective time management skills.
• Have the flexibility to alter an established schedule as necessary to deal with unforeseen crisis situations.
• Complete forms and paperwork by scheduled due dates.
• Will provide data entry assistance, as necessary.

Job Requirements and Qualifications

Education:

The following educational degrees will qualify:

• Degrees in Human Development and Family Studies, Family life Sciences or Women’s Studies.
• Bachelor’s Degree with 24 credits in Child Development or Early Childhood Education including core courses in Child/Human Growth and Development; Child, Family and Community and Program/Curriculum.
• First Aid and CPR required.

Experience:

• Minimum of two years previous experience working with children in a MN licensed childcare program.
• Also 2 years of supervisory experience.

SKILLS & ABILITIES

• Early Child Development knowledge and experience.
• Knowledge of desired results, developmentally appropriate practices.
• Effective communication, problem solving, and priority setting skills as well as maintaining an overall positive and professional attitude /disposition.
• Ability to use the computer.
• Ability to effectively plan, organize and implement educational activities.
• Ability to make decisions on behalf of children and protect their well-being.
• Must be able to manage confidential information.
• Ability to lift and carry up to 40 pounds and in case of emergency.
• All employees, regardless of position, serve as role models for children served by our agency. The staff must be able to demonstrate appropriate daily behavior,
• Appropriate expressions of emotions, as well as appropriate role modeling.

Compensation: $20-22 Hour dependent upon qualifications.

Benefits: Paid medical, dental, and life insurance, Retirement match option, generous paid time off, 11 paid holidays.

Hiring Process:

• The position will be open for applications until filled.
• Please include a cover letter with a current resume. Use the cover letter to tell us why you are interested in the position and what you will personally bring to the team.