Daycare Lead Teacher (Multiple Locations)

Little Learner Children’s Academy; Plainfield (IL); On-site; USD 36,000 - 43,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Mentorship

Competitive pay

Paid professional development

Medical benefits

Holidays & PTO

Referral bonuses

Tuition reimbursement

Job summary

Little Learner Children’s Academy in Illinois is seeking a Lead Qualified Daycare Teacher to provide a safe, nurturing classroom and implement developmentally appropriate lesson plans. Requirements include a high school diploma or GED, Illinois teacher qualifications, and a passion for working with children.

The role runs Monday to Friday, 6:30am–5:30pm, in Minooka, Crest Hill, Yorkville, or Bolingbrook. Full‑time benefits include mentorship, competitive pay based on skills, paid professional

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required.
• Qualifying coursework or degree in early childhood education or CDA/CCP.
• Illinois state qualifications for daycare teachers.
• Experience in licensed childcare preferred.
• Flexibility with hours and schedule.
• Must be at least 19 years old.

Responsibilities

• Create and implement age-appropriate lesson plans.
• Provide a safe, nurturing environment and follow daily schedule.
• Support children's social, emotional, cognitive, and physical development.
• Ensure program complies with local child care licensing standards.
• Monitor and communicate child progress with parents.
• Prepare weekly lesson planning and parent communication materials.
• Engage in staff meetings, training, and professional growth.

Skills

Passion for children

Education

High school diploma or GED

Illinois DCFS qualifications / CDA or CCP

Job description

Bring your passion for child-centered education to a school that prioritizes hands-on exploration! Little Learner Children’s Academy is a privately-owned childcare center with locations in Minooka, Crest Hill, Yorkville, and Bolingbrook.We are committed to creating an environment where children thrive through active learning, compassionate care, and meaningful connections.

At the core of everything we do are our values:

• Learning – We foster a love for lifelong learning in both children and educators.
• Loyalty – We build strong, trusting relationships with families, staff, and our communities.
• Caring – We prioritize empathy, kindness, and a nurturing approach in every interaction.
• Adventurous – We inspire curiosity, creativity, and the courage to explore new ideas.

Join Little Learner Children’s Academy and leave a lasting legacy by nurturing the potential of young learners and shaping their futures. We’re looking for individuals who want to support working families while building a rewarding career in early childhood education. Be part of a team that makes a real difference in the lives of children and their families.

Title: Daycare Lead Teacher

Salary: From $36,000 - $43,000 (based on education and experience)

Monday to Friday

Shifts from: 6:30am-5:30pm

Locations: Minooka, Crest Hill, Yorkville, and Bolingbrook

Lead Qualified Daycare Teachers are expected to bring passion and professionalism, and in return, full-time employees may enjoy:

• A supportive, collaborative work environment, including mentorship
• A competitive compensation package based on skills and experience
• Paid professional development opportunities
• Comprehensive medical benefits
• Paid holidays and personal time off
• Referral bonuses and child care discounts
• Tuition reimbursement options for continuing education

Responsibilities for Lead Qualified Daycare Teachers:

• Creates and implements lesson plans based on the developmental needs of the children in the classroom.
• Provides a safe and nurturing environment and follows daily schedule with the assistance of the Assistant Teacher.
• Ensures the program enhances age-appropriate social, emotional, cognitive and physical growth of children.
• Ensures the program is in accordance with all local child care licensing standards.
• Monitors/observes child's progress and communicates information about the child to the parent in a complete, candid and positive manner.
• Completes Monday-Friday lesson planning bins and parent communication bins.
• Uses techniques that promote effective supervision practices and create safe care environments.
• Consistently demonstrating a personal commitment to professional and personal growth
• Maintaining an evident interest in the job; actively participating in staff meetings, training, and workshops.

Job Requirements for Lead Qualified Daycare Teachers:

• A high school diploma or GED equivalent
• Qualifying coursework, a degree in early childhood education or child development, or a CDA (Child Development Associate certification) or a CCP (Certified Childcare Professional)
• Teacher qualifications from the state of Illinois per DCFS Standards
• Experience working in a licensed childcare facility (preferred)
• Flexibility around hours and work schedule
• Must be at least 19 years of age
• A passion for working with children

Little Learner Children’s Academy provides Equal Employment Opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, family medical history, marital status, military membership or veteran status, pregnancy, citizenship status, or any other factor covered by applicable federal, state and local laws. Little Learner Children’s Academy complies with applicable state and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment in every location in which the Company has facilities. This Policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training.