Assistant Toddler Teacher

BIG STEPS LITTLE FEET INC; Grand Rapids (MI); On-site; USD 26,000 - 32,000; Full time

Job summary

Big Steps Little Feet Christian Early Learning & Nature Preschool in Ada, MI is seeking an Assistant Toddler Teacher to support the lead teacher in a safe, nurturing environment. You will guide toddlers through guided play, daily activities, and attentive care to foster early development.

You will assist with planning, supervise during meals and outdoor time, observe children's needs, communicate with families, and help maintain a clean, organized classroom in accordance with health and safety

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Experience working with toddlers or young children.
• Basic knowledge of early childhood development principles.
• Ability to pass background checks and meet state childcare licensing requirements.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.

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

Communication

Interpersonal skills

Observational skills

Organizational skills

Patience

Creativity

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Job description

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.

About the Role:

The Assistant Toddler Teacher 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 Toddler Teacher contributes to laying a strong foundation for lifelong learning and social development in young children.

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 Toddler Teacher 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.

8:00AM - 5:00PM, Monday - Friday estimated schedule