Preschool Assistant

Berkshire Family YMCA; Pittsfield (MA); On-site; USD 21,000 - 26,000; Part time

Benefits offered by this job

Work that makes a difference

Fun atmosphere

Discounted program fees

Opportunities for training

Opportunities for advancement

Job summary

Berkshire Family YMCA is seeking a Preschool Assistant to support the lead teacher in daily activities and lesson plans that promote cognitive, social, and emotional development. You will engage with children, ensure safety, and maintain a clean classroom environment while assisting with administrative tasks related to student progress.

The role emphasizes strong communication with parents, teamwork with staff, and creating an inclusive, nurturing learning atmosphere for young children.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Experience working with young children in an educational or childcare setting required.
• CPR and First Aid certification preferred.

Responsibilities

• Assist the lead teacher in preparing and implementing daily lesson plans and activities.
• Supervise and engage with children during playtime, ensuring their safety and well-being.
• Help maintain a clean and organized classroom environment.
• Support children in developing social skills and emotional regulation.
• Communicate effectively with parents and guardians regarding children's progress and needs.

Skills

Strong communication

Interpersonal skills

Organizational skills

Patience and empathy

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Associate's degree in Early Childhood Education

Tools

CPR and First Aid certification

Job description

About the Role: The Preschool Assistant plays a crucial role in fostering a nurturing and educational environment for young children. This position involves supporting the lead teacher in implementing daily lesson plans and activities that promote cognitive, social, and emotional development. The assistant will engage with children in various learning experiences, ensuring that each child feels valued and included. Additionally, the role requires maintaining a safe and clean classroom environment, as well as assisting with administrative tasks related to student progress and classroom management. Ultimately, the Preschool Assistant contributes to laying a strong foundation for lifelong learning and development in each child.

Minimum Qualifications:

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Experience working with young children in an educational or childcare setting.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Associate's degree in Early Childhood Education or a related field.
• CPR and First Aid certification.

Responsibilities:

• Assist the lead teacher in preparing and implementing daily lesson plans and activities.
• Supervise and engage with children during playtime, ensuring their safety and well-being.
• Help maintain a clean and organized classroom environment.
• Support children in developing social skills and emotional regulation.
• Communicate effectively with parents and guardians regarding children's progress and needs.

Skills: The required skills for this position include strong communication and interpersonal abilities, which are essential for effectively interacting with children, parents, and colleagues. Organizational skills are also vital, as the Preschool Assistant will need to manage classroom materials and maintain a structured environment. Patience and empathy are crucial in understanding and responding to the diverse needs of young children.

Preferred Skills, Such As Knowledge Of Early Childhood Development principles, will enhance the assistant's ability to support the lead teacher in creating engaging and developmentally appropriate activities. Overall, these skills contribute to a positive and enriching learning experience for all children in the classroom.

Part-time/Seasonal Employment Benefits:

• Work that makes a difference
• Fun atmosphere
• Discounted program fees
• Opportunities for training
• Opportunities for advancement