Company:
Big Steps Little Feet Christian Early Learning & Nature Preschool has been in operation for 32 years in the Ada community. It comprises fifteen classrooms, a full-service kitchen, a gym, nature learning spaces, and two playgrounds.
Mission:
To provide a safe and nurturing environment where care and learning become a stimulating adventure, as we partner with parents in developing positive character qualities for your children, our future generation.
Staff Motto:
Be nurturing, Be honest, Be fun!
About the Role:
The Assistant Early Childhood Educator plays a vital role in supporting the lead teacher in creating a safe, nurturing, and stimulating environment for toddlers. This position focuses on fostering early childhood development through guided play, educational activities, and attentive care. Ultimately, the Assistant Early Childhood Educator contributes to laying a strong foundation for lifelong learning and social development in young children.
Benefits for all Employees:
- Transamerica Retirement Plans (Roth or 401(k) with Employer Match) available at 90 days of hire.
- Wellness Programs
- Employee Assistance Program through Pine Rest offeringthree freecounseling sessions, legal and real estate consultations, and access to an online library of resources. This benefit begins with employment.
- Planet Fitness Gym Membership at 90-day mark of employment valued at$15.00/month
- Career Growth & Development:
- Paid time monthly staff training meetings with a delicious dinner provided.This is an additional 1.5 hours of paid professional development time each month.
- Paid time Miregistry credit approved training opportunities.
- Paid time (Up to 2 hours) CPR & First Aid training events and renewal certifications.
- Full tuition reimbursement for completing a CDA approved through the CDA Council (valued at $398.00).
- Earned Sick Leave: Up to 72 hours annually. More details located in the Employee Handbook.
Additional Benefits for Full-Time Employees:
- Paid Time:
- Paid Time Off accrual at annual mark of employment
- Paid holidays beginning with employment. No evening or weekend hours (with the exception of paid monthly staff meetings).
- Medical, Dental, & Optical Options:
- Nurture Benefits LLC is a state subsidy program for childcare providers and in combination with BSLF company monthly contribution amount allows aFREE base medical insurance planfor all staff.
- For Blue Care Network major medical mid or high level plans, Big Steps contributes $82.66 toward the Employee Only cost if elected after 60 days of employment. Any non staff family members will pay the full member rate cost.
- For vision (VSP) and dental (BCBS) insurances, Big Steps Little Feet covers the full amount of these plans if elected after 60 days of employment.
- If chosen to not elect coverage at the 60 day mark of employment, coverage could be elected during open enrollment timeframe, typically in December each year.
- Aflac is an additional health benefit available and is 100% employee paid. Those benefits are per item and cost is discussed with the agency representative.
Minimum Qualifications:
- High school diploma or equivalent.
- Experience working with toddlers or young children in a childcare or educational setting.
- Basic knowledge of early childhood development principles.
- Ability to pass background checks and meet state childcare licensing requirements.
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
Preferred Qualifications:
- Experience with curriculum planning and implementation for toddlers.
- Previous experience in a licensed childcare center or preschool.
Responsibilities:
- Assist the lead teacher in planning and implementing daily activities that promote cognitive, social, emotional, and physical development of toddlers.
- Supervise and engage with children during playtime, meals, naps, and outdoor activities to ensure their safety and well-being.
- Support individual children’s needs by observing behavior, providing comfort, and encouraging positive interactions.
- Maintain a clean, organized, and safe classroom environment by following health and safety guidelines.
- Communicate effectively with parents and caregivers regarding their child’s progress, daily experiences, and any concerns.
- Help prepare materials and set up learning centers to facilitate educational activities.
- Participate in staff meetings, training sessions, and collaborate with colleagues to continuously improve classroom practices.
Skills:
The Assistant Early Childhood Educator uses strong communication skills daily to interact effectively with children, parents, and colleagues, ensuring clear and compassionate exchanges. Observational skills are essential for monitoring children's development and identifying any needs or concerns promptly. Organizational skills help maintain a clean and structured classroom environment conducive to learning and safety. Patience and creativity are applied when engaging toddlers in educational activities and managing challenging behaviors. Additionally, teamwork and collaboration skills are vital for working alongside the lead teacher and other staff to deliver a cohesive and supportive learning experience.
Monday - Friday, estimated schedule of 8am-5pm.
No weekend or holiday hours. Paid holidays.