Location and Job Title:
Lead Teacher- Toddler
JCC of Binghamton, NY
500 Clubhouse Rd
Vestal, NY 13850
Principal Responsibilities:
Title: Lead Toddler Teacher
Reports to: Early Childhood Education Director
Schedule: Monday-Friday, 9:00 am-5:30 pm
Status: Full-time hourly, non-exempt
An exciting opportunity awaits as a full-time Lead Toddler Teacher at the Binghamton JCC! The Lead Toddler Teacher plays a crucial role in guiding the day-to-day care, development, and education of our curious and energetic toddlers. We are seeking a nurturing, knowledgeable, and compassionate individual who is dedicated to creating a safe, engaging, and stimulating learning environment for toddlers.
The successful candidate will lead the development and implementation of a high-quality toddler program that aligns with the goals and values of the school. The Lead Teacher will provide leadership, plan engaging activities, and foster a love of learning in toddlers while supporting the Early Childhood Education Program's philosophy and the mission of the Jewish Community Center.
Key Responsibilities
- Creating a secure, warm, and nurturing environment that fosters toddlers' growth, exploration, and independence.
- Responding sensitively to toddlers' needs and behaviors, using positive language and guidance techniques to support their emotional and social skills.
- Planning and implementing a developmentally appropriate curriculum that includes structured and unstructured play, language enrichment, creative arts, motor development, and social-emotional learning.
- Maintaining proactive, open communication with families about their child's progress, daily activities, and milestones.
- Ensuring adherence to ethical standards and guidelines set by the Office of Children and Family Services, including Developmentally Appropriate Practices for toddlers.
- Leading and mentoring teaching assistants with professionalism, offering guidance and feedback to support a collaborative team atmosphere.
- Promoting a classroom culture that encourages curiosity, interaction, empathy, independence, and responsibility.
- Participating in ongoing training and professional development to remain current with early childhood education best practices.
- Maintaining accurate records of each child's development and other required documentation.
Principal Activities
- Overseeing daily routines, including snack times, naps, and toileting/diapering, to promote health, safety, and well-being for all toddlers.
- Planning, organizing, and leading engaging and developmentally appropriate activities that support toddlers' social, emotional, and cognitive growth.
- Observing and documenting toddlers' progress, creating individualized plans to support their development.
- Effectively communicating in oral and written English with staff, families, and other caregivers, including conducting regular parent-teacher conferences as needed.
- Lifting and carrying toddlers up to 45 pounds as necessary and sitting on low chairs or the floor to engage with toddlers at their level.
- Participating in active physical activities with toddlers, such as outdoor play, movement activities, and arts and crafts.
- Maintaining cleanliness, organization, and safety of toddler areas, and promptly reporting any unsafe conditions to supervisors.
- Meeting New York State DCC Licensing Regulations, ECC Handbook policies, and upholding standards for NAEYC accreditation.
- Completing a minimum of 15 hours of additional training per year.
- Participating in and supporting all childcare responsibilities and other JCC activities as assigned by the Early Childhood Education Director.
Benefits
- $18/hour with a 40-hour work week.
- Comprehensive benefits package.
- Opportunities for professional growth and development within a dynamic organization.
- A collaborative and inclusive work environment that values diversity and respect.
- Access to JCC facilities and programs for employees and their families.
- Discounts on JCC offerings such as personal training, swim lessons, preschool, and camp.
Qualifications
- Must be at least 18 years of age.
- Associate's degree in Early Childhood or a related field, CDA, or at least 9 Early Childhood credits.
- Experience in working with toddlers or young children in an early childhood setting desired.
- Strong understanding of toddler development and developmentally appropriate practices.
- Ability to work well with toddlers, parents, teachers, and administration.
- Patience, compassion, and a genuine love for leading a team that works with toddlers.
- Ability to lift and carry a toddler up to 45 pounds when necessary.
- Ability to sit on low chairs or the floor to engage with toddlers at their level.
Salary:
$35,000 - $45,000