Infant & Toddler Teacher

YMCA Cape Cod; Cotuit (MA); On-site; USD 42,000 - 52,000; Full time

Job summary

YMCA Cape Cod is seeking an experienced Lead Infant/Toddler Teacher to guide developmentally appropriate activities and curricula for infants and toddlers. You will lead the classroom, support families, and mentor junior staff in a nurturing, inclusive environment.

The role emphasizes safety, licensing compliance, and collaboration with families to foster early development while advancing the Y's mission and culture.

Qualifications

• Proven experience working with infants in a childcare or preschool setting with classroom management skills.
• Strong knowledge of childhood development theories, behavior management strategies, and early intervention practices.
• Expertise in curriculum development including literacy education, math basics for young children, and Montessori methods.
• Excellent communication skills for engaging with children, families, and team members effectively.
• Certification in early childhood education (Infant/Toddler Certification)

Responsibilities

• Design and implement developmentally appropriate lesson plans tailored to infants’ and toddlers’ needs.
• Lead classroom management efforts to create a positive, structured environment that encourages curiosity and exploration.
• Collaborate with families to communicate progress, address individual needs, and support early intervention strategies when necessary.
• Supervise and mentor assistant teachers and staff to ensure high-quality care and educational standards.
• Incorporate curriculum development techniques that include literacy education, early childhood education principles, and Montessori methods where applicable.
• Manage classroom routines such as diapering, feeding, nap times, and sensory activities with compassion and professionalism.
• Maintain accurate documentation of developmental milestones, assessments, and daily activities in compliance with licensing standards.

Skills

Classroom management

Communication with families

Curriculum development

Team mentoring

Observation & assessment

Education

Infant/Toddler Certification

Early childhood education degree (preferred)

Job description

Position Summary

We are seeking passionate and energetic Infant & Toddler Teachers to join our team. In this vital role, you will lead classroom activities, develop engaging curricula, and support the developmental needs of infants & toddlers in a nurturing environment. Your leadership will inspire young learners while ensuring a safe, inclusive, and stimulating space for early childhood growth.

Brief Description

We are seeking passionate and energetic Infant & Toddler Teachers to join our team. In this vital role, you will lead classroom activities, develop engaging curricula, and support the developmental needs of infants & toddlers in a nurturing environment. Your leadership will inspire young learners while ensuring a safe, inclusive, and stimulating space for early childhood growth.

Our Culture

Our mission and core values are brought to life by our culture. In the Y, we strive to live our cause of strengthening communities with purpose and intentionality every day. We are welcoming: we are open to all. We are a place where you can belong and become. We are genuine: we value you and embrace your individuality. We are hopeful: we believe in you and your potential to become a catalyst in the world. We are nurturing: we support you in your journey to develop your full potential. We are determined: above all else, we are on a relentless quest to make our community stronger beginning with you.

WHAT'S IN IT FOR YOU?

• Enjoy a FREE YMCA membership for yourself and 1 additional person in your household.
• Program discounts: summer camp, childcare, family membership
• United Healthcare Insurance benefits: Health, Dental, Vision, & Life insurance
• Monthly employee appreciation
• Annual pay increase
• PTO & Paid sick time
• 11 paid holidays
• Growth & Development opportunities
• Paid Training
• Positive work environment!

Essential Functions

• Design and implement developmentally appropriate lesson plans tailored to infants’ & toddler needs, including activities that promote physical, cognitive, and social-emotional development
• Lead classroom management efforts to create a positive, structured environment that encourages curiosity and exploration
• Collaborate with families to communicate progress, address individual needs, and support early intervention strategies when necessary
• Supervise and mentor assistant teachers and staff to ensure high-quality care and educational standards
• Incorporate curriculum development techniques that include literacy education, early childhood education principles, and Montessori methods where applicable
• Manage classroom routines such as diapering, feeding, nap times, and sensory activities with compassion and professionalism
• Maintain accurate documentation of developmental milestones, assessments, and daily activities in compliance with licensing standards

Requirements

• Proven experience working with infants in a childcare or preschool setting with classroom management skills
• Strong knowledge of childhood development theories, behavior management strategies, and early intervention practices
• Expertise in curriculum development including literacy education, math basics for young children, and Montessori methods
• Excellent communication skills for engaging with children, families, and team members effectively
• Familiarity with standardized testing procedures related to early childhood education and child welfare regulationsAbility to lead lesson planning sessions focused on physical education, toddler care, and preschool activities
• Certification in early childhood education (Infant/Toddler Certification)

Summary

Join us as a Lead Infant Teacher and make a lasting impact on the lives of our youngest learners! Your dedication will help foster their growth while supporting our community’s commitment to nurturing potential through vibrant early childhood education.