Early Head Start Teacher: Infants & Toddlers

Heart of the Valley YMCA; Huntsville (AL); On-site; USD 34,000 - 42,000; Full time

Job summary

The Heart of the Valley YMCA in Huntsville, AL is seeking an Early Head Start Teacher to provide a safe, nurturing learning environment for birth to three-year-olds. You will plan developmentally appropriate activities and build strong relationships with families to support child growth across cognitive, social-emotional, physical, and language domains.

You will conduct observations, tailor instruction for all children including those with delays, and ensure compliance with Head Start standards

Qualifications

• CDA credential with infant/toddler focus.
• Coursework or training in infant and toddler development.
• Experience working with infants and toddlers in a childcare or early childhood setting is preferred.
• Ability to pass required background checks and pre-employment screenings.
• Current CPR and First Aid certification or ability to obtain within designated timeframe.
• Preferred: Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education, Child Development, or related field.
• Preferred: Experience working in Early Head Start or Head Start programs.
• Preferred: Knowledge of Creative Curriculum, CLASS, developmental screening tools, and Head Start Performance Standards.

Responsibilities

• Plan and implement developmentally appropriate lesson plans and daily activities for infants and toddlers.
• Create a warm, safe, and engaging classroom environment that promotes learning through exploration and play.
• Support children's social, emotional, cognitive, language, and physical development.
• Conduct ongoing observations and assessments to monitor developmental progress.
• Individualize instruction to meet the needs of all children, including those with disabilities or developmental delays.
• Maintain active supervision of children at all times.
• Develop positive relationships with parents and families.
• Conduct parent conferences, home visits, and family engagement activities as required.
• Share information regarding children's development and progress.
• Connect families with community resources and support services as needed.
• Ensure compliance with health, safety, sanitation, and licensing requirements.
• Monitor children's health and well-being and report concerns appropriately.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe classroom environment.
• Follow all emergency procedures and child supervision policies.
• Maintain accurate attendance, assessment, and child development records.
• Complete required reports and documentation in a timely manner.
• Ensure compliance with Head Start Performance Standards, state regulations, and agency policies.
• Participate in program monitoring, evaluations, and continuous quality improvement efforts.
• Attend required staff meetings, training sessions, and professional development activities.
• Collaborate with supervisors, family advocates, disability specialists, and other program staff.
• Maintain confidentiality of children, families, and program information.
• Demonstrate professionalism and positive communication with children, families, and staff.

Education

CDA credential (infant/toddler)

Infant/toddler development coursework

Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education/related field

CPR and First Aid certification

Job description

The Heart of the Valley YMCA in Huntsville, AL is seeking an Early Head Start Teacher to provide a safe, nurturing learning environment for birth to three-year-olds. You will plan developmentally appropriate activities and build strong relationships with families to support child growth across cognitive, social-emotional, physical, and language domains.

You will conduct observations, tailor instruction for all children including those with delays, and ensure compliance with Head Start standards