Toddler Lead Teacher

Priority Dispatch Corp.; Topeka (KS); On-site; USD 30,000 - 42,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health plan

Paid time off

Bonuses

401(k) plan

Gym membership discount

Paid training

Job summary

Bright Minds Academy in Topeka, KS is seeking a Toddler Lead Teacher to create a safe, engaging environment for ages 12-36 months. You will guide social-emotional development, support language growth, and implement play-based learning activities.

The role requires clear boundaries with warmth, supervision of assistant teachers, and regular communication with families about each child's progress. This is a full-time, on-site position that upholds KOEC and NECPA standards.

Qualifications

• KOEC and NECPA requirements for toddler care
• Associate or Bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education, Child Development, or related field preferred
• Minimum 2+ years of experience with toddlers in licensed childcare
• Understanding of toddler development (12-36 months): language, motor, social-emotional and cognitive growth
• Excellent conflict resolution and positive discipline strategies
• Strong communication skills and ability to partner with parents
• Current First Aid and CPR certification (Infant & Child) required
• High energy and flexibility; stay calm during busy, unpredictable situations

Responsibilities

• Observe toddlers and create activity plans based on developmental stage and interests
• Implement play-based activities to support language, motor and social-emotional growth
• Guide toddler behavior with warmth, clear boundaries and positive redirection
• Facilitate peer interaction and early friendship skills through guided play
• Manage transitions and daily routines (meals, snack, naptime) with minimal disruption
• Maintain a safe, engaging classroom for active exploration and learning
• Communicate with parents about development, behaviors and milestones
• Create daily reports with photos/videos of activities and milestones
• Supervise and guide assistant teachers to ensure nurturing care
• Ensure compliance with KOEC licensing regulations and NECPA standards

Skills

Social-emotional development

Language development

Play-based learning

Classroom management

Parent communication

Education

Associate or Bachelor's degree in ECE

Job description

Job DetailsJob Location: Topeka - Topeka, KS 66612Position Type: Full TimeSummary

We are seeking an energetic and patient Toddler Lead Teacher to create an engaging, safe environment for our busy explorers (ages 12-36 months). You will guide social-emotional development, support language growth, and implement play-based learning activities. The Toddler Lead Teacher provides clear boundaries with warmth and supervises assistant teachers.

About Bright Minds Academy

Our Mission

Shaping the newest generation of Kansans through safe, transparent care that ignites the magic of learning and builds a lasting positive impact.

Our Core Values

• Own It with Heart - We take full accountability for our actions and outcomes, following through with ownership and care
• Consistently Consistent - Showing up every day is non-negotiable—it's the foundation of trust and teamwork
• Open & Honest - We commit to transparent, candid communication with each other and with families
• Learn Boldly - We celebrate the magic of learning by encouraging open dialogue and daring to try new things
• Family First, Always - We cultivate a positive, supportive culture where everyone feels valued and connected

Key Responsibilities

• Observe individual toddlers and create activity plans based on their developmental stage, interests, and emerging skills
• Implement play-based learning activities that support language development, motor skills, and social-emotional growth
• Guide toddler behavior with consistency, clear boundaries, and positive redirection in a warm manner
• Facilitate peer interaction and early friendship skills through guided play experiences
• Manage transitions and daily routines (meals, snack, naptime) with minimal disruption
• Maintain a safe, engaging classroom environment designed for active exploration and learning
• Communicate frequently with parents about their toddler's development, behaviors, and learning moments
• Create daily reports for each toddler including photos/videos of activities and milestones
• Supervise and guide assistant teachers to ensure consistent, nurturing care
• Ensure compliance with all KOEC licensing regulations and NECPA standards

Benefits Package

• Direct pay provider health plan
• Generous paid time off
• Paid training, holidays, and closure days
• Semi-annual bonuses and annual pay raises
• Gym membership discount
• Simple IRA plan with employer match
• Competitive compensation based on education and experience

Join the Bright Minds Academy Family

We are excited to welcome dedicated educators who share our passion for child development and high-quality care.

Bright Minds Academy is an Equal Opportunity Employer

QualificationsRequired Qualifications

• Must meet or exceed all KOEC and NECPA requirements for toddler care
• Associate or Bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education, Child Development, or related field preferred
• Minimum 2+ years of experience working with toddlers in a licensed childcare setting
• Deep understanding of toddler development (12-36 months), including language, motor, social-emotional, and cognitive growth
• Excellent conflict resolution and positive discipline strategies
• Strong communication skills and ability to build partnerships with parents
• Current First Aid and CPR certification (Infant & Child) required
• High energy and flexibility; ability to stay calm during busy, unpredictable situations