Lead Toddler Teacher

Country Kids Day Care, Inc.; Lenexa (KS); On-site; USD 30,000 - 40,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player in childcare is seeking a dedicated Toddler Lead Teacher to create a nurturing environment for toddlers aged 12-30 months. This role is crucial in fostering physical, social-emotional, and cognitive development through engaging activities and consistent routines. You will collaborate with an Assistant Teacher and Center Director to ensure a safe and developmentally appropriate space where toddlers can thrive. If you are passionate about early childhood education and eager to make a positive impact, this opportunity offers a rewarding career path in a supportive team environment.

Qualifications

• Minimum of a CDA credential required and at least one year of experience.
• Strong communication skills and understanding of toddler development.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement a curriculum that encourages exploration and problem-solving.
• Monitor developmental milestones and maintain a safe classroom environment.

Skills

Communication Skills

Patience

Creativity

Understanding of Toddler Development

Education

CDA Credential

Certification in Pediatric First Aid and CPR

Job description

The Toddler Lead Teacher provides a nurturing and responsive environment that supports toddlers’ (ages 12-30 months) rapid growth and exploration. This role focuses on fostering toddlers’ physical, social-emotional, and cognitive development through consistent routines, engaging activities, and supportive interactions. The Toddler Lead Teacher works closely with the Assistant Teacher and Center Director to create a safe, developmentally appropriate space where toddlers feel secure to learn and thrive.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Develop and implement a developmentally appropriate curriculum that encourages exploration, sensory experiences, and early problem-solving skills.
• Establish and maintain predictable routines for meals, naps, and transitions, supporting toddlers’ sense of security and independence.
• Promote early language development by engaging toddlers in songs, stories, and conversations.
• Foster positive peer interactions and help toddlers begin learning basic social skills like sharing and taking turns.
• Monitor and document developmental milestones, sharing observations with families and adapting activities to meet individual needs.
• Provide hands-on care, including diapering, potty training, and assisting with self-help skills like feeding and dressing.
• Maintain a clean, safe, and organized classroom environment, following health and safety guidelines.
• Supervise and mentor the Assistant Teacher to ensure consistent, high-quality care and education.
• Build positive relationships with families, offering regular updates on their child’s progress and strategies to support growth at home.
• Proactively address challenging behaviors using age-appropriate guidance techniques and redirection.
• Participate in ongoing professional development to stay current in toddler care best practices.
• Serve as a role model for professionalism and teamwork, including punctuality and reliability.
• Uphold all center policies, state childcare regulations, and confidentiality standards.

Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities

• Deep understanding of toddler development, including the importance of routine, sensory experiences, and supportive guidance.
• Strong communication skills to engage toddlers, families, and team members effectively.
• Patience and creativity to support toddlers’ curiosity and independence while managing transitions and behaviors.

Education & Experience

• Minimum of a CDA credential required.
• At least one year of experience working with toddlers in a licensed childcare setting.
• Certification in pediatric first aid and CPR.
• Pass criminal background check.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to engage in active care, including frequently lifting children, kneeling, bending, and participating in floor-based play.
• Comfortable working in a busy, dynamic environment with exposure to common childhood illnesses.