Paraeducator Early Head Start

Wyoming Child; Casper (WY); On-site; USD 30,000 - 42,000; Full time

Job summary

Wyoming Child and Family Development, Inc. in Casper, WY seeks a caregiver for its Early Head Start program to support infants and toddlers from birth to three years old. You will assist the Lead Teacher, prepare materials, and provide individualized care to each child and family.

This role requires a strong understanding of child development, effective communication with families, and adherence to Head Start standards. CDA within a set timeframe and ongoing training are provided.

Qualifications

• Must demonstrate ability to work effectively with birth to 3-year-olds, including those with special needs.
• Understanding of developmentally appropriate practices in early childhood education.
• Strong problem-solving and ability to follow instructions accurately.
• Excellent interpersonal skills for diverse staff, children, and families.
• Flexibility to adapt to changing daily routines; bilingualism preferred.

Responsibilities

• Assist Lead Teacher with classroom setup and material preparation.
• Provide individualized care and developmentally appropriate activities for infants and toddlers.
• Deliver services to children and families across settings in all weather conditions.
• Communicate positively with staff, children, and families.
• Maintain clean, safe, organized classroom environments and document required records.
• Support IFSP/IEP goals in collaboration with teachers and therapists.
• Assist with group socialization activities and outdoor play.
• Attend training sessions and meetings as required.

Skills

Child development

Communication

Bilingual (preferred)

Behavioral understanding

Flexibility

Education

High School Diploma or GED

CDA within specified time frame

Accredited degrees per US DoE

Job description

THIS INSTITUTION IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY PROVIDER

Job Summary

In this role, you will help create a safe and supportive environment for children from birth to three years old, where they can explore, learn, and build trusting relationships. You will work with the Lead Teacher to get materials ready and set up the classroom. You will also provide individualized care to meet the needs of each child and family in our Early Head Start (EHS) program.

Duties/Responsibilities

All duties will comply with Head Start/Early Head Start standards, DFS licensing, NAEYC guidelines, Wyoming Division of Disabilities regulations, and WCFD policies. All employees will adhere to the mission, vision, values, policies, and procedures of WCFD.

Recruit children for the program in accordance with guidelines from the Department of Health and Human Services and WCFD.

Provide infant/toddler care based on knowledge of child development and growth.

Deliver direct services to children, families, and staff in various settings regardless of weather conditions.

Communicate positively with staff, children, and families through both verbal and nonverbal methods.

Work effectively with children who have behavioral concerns, developmental disabilities, and/or learning impairments.

Assist in organizing and implementing group socialization activities for children and families.

Complete all required paperwork accurately and on time.

Provide individualized educational activities to help children explore, develop problem-solving skills, and build self-confidence.

Support Individual Family Service Plan (IFSP) and/or Individual Education Plan (IEP) goals in collaboration with teachers, family support providers, and therapists.

Keep classroom areas clean, organized, and safe.

Assume full classroom responsibilities when needed.

Perform minor first aid and routine hygienic care.

Provide regular care to children, including diaper changes, feeding, and comforting.

Participate in child screenings as necessary.

Assist with outdoor and playground activities.

Ensure ability to perform job functions safely, with or without reasonable accommodations.

Attend all required training sessions and meetings.

Perform additional tasks as assigned by the Board or its designee.

Adhere to all policies, guidelines, and operational procedures set forth by Wyoming Child and Family Development, Inc.

Required Skills/Abilities

Must demonstrate the ability to work effectively with children ranging from birth to three years old, including those with special needs, and their families.

Should demonstrate an understanding of developmentally appropriate practices and early childhood education principles.

Must possess strong problem-solving skills and the ability to follow both written and verbal instructions accurately.

Excellent interpersonal skills are required to collaborate with a diverse range of individuals and personalities.

Strong communication skills are essential to interact with staff, children, families, and the broader community.

Must have effective stress management strategies and the ability to maintain composure in challenging situations.

Flexibility is key; the ability to adapt to changing daily routines is required.

Bilingual candidates are preferred.

Education and Experience

Must have a High School Diploma or a G.E.D. and be 18 years of age (state requirements).

Must obtain a Child Development Associate Credential within a specified time frame. Training and support will be provided by WCFD.

Must attain additional training or certifications, which may be required by Wyoming Child and Family Development, Inc.

WCFD will only accept college degrees from accredited institutions recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.

Physical Requirements

Reasonable accommodations can be made for persons with disabilities. The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job.

Ability to read technical materials for extended periods of time.

Ability to sit, stand, or walk for long periods without fatigue or discomfort.

Must be able to travel to various sites, meetings, and training sessions, both in-state and out-of-state.

Must be willing to drive safely in a variety of weather conditions.

Capable of hearing and processing both in-person and telephone conversations.

Must be able to work in a variety of temperatures, including hot and cold weather.

Ability to work in air-conditioned buildings and under fluorescent lighting.

Must be able to climb stairs, stoop, kneel, crouch and/or reach, to retrieve materials and supplies from ground level to a height of at least 5 ft.

Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds.

Must be able to assist children in emergency situations and provide first aid when needed.