Toddler Lead Teacher & Classroom Mentor

Kiddie Academy of Collierville; Collierville (TN); On-site; USD 19,000 - 30,000; Full time

Job summary

Kiddie Academy of Collierville is hiring a Toddler Lead Teacher to guide a classroom of 12–36 month olds. You’ll plan daily activities, mentor an Assistant Teacher, and serve as the main family contact.

The role focuses on language, motor, social, and early self-help skills through play, with strong emphasis on safety and routine in a developmentally appropriate setting. Ideal candidates have licensed childcare experience and the ability to lift 40 pounds, with clear communication and a

Qualifications

• Prior experience caring for or teaching toddlers in a licensed childcare setting; lead teacher experience preferred.
• CDA credential or coursework in Early Childhood Education, Child Development, or related field; Associate's or Bachelor's degree a plus.
• Understanding of toddler development and developmentally appropriate practice.
• Calm, patient, and flexible with energy for an active room.
• Clear, warm communicator with children, families, and coworkers.
• Dependable, organized, and comfortable leading a team.
• Must meet all state licensing requirements and background checks; annual training hours per licensing.
• Must be able to lift at least 40 pounds and move actively with children.

Responsibilities

• Plan and deliver daily activities using the Kiddie Academy Life Essentials® curriculum, with a focus on language development, sensory exploration, fine and gross motor skills, and early social-emotional growth.
• Set up hands-on, age-appropriate interest areas that invite toddlers to explore, move, and problem-solve safely.
• Build consistent, predictable routines for meals, diapering and toilet learning, naps, and transitions, and support each child's growing independence.
• Observe and document each child's development; complete developmental assessments and share progress with families during scheduled parent-teacher conferences throughout the year.
• Make sure every child's physical, social, and emotional needs are met each day, with plenty of one-on-one attention, comfort, and positive guidance.
• Supervise children closely during all activities, including meals, outdoor play, and rest time, and follow all health and safety policies.
• Direct the work of the Assistant Teacher so the classroom runs smoothly, and help evaluate classroom staff.
• Communicate openly and regularly with parents through daily updates, the Family Information Board, classroom bulletin boards, and the classroom section of the monthly newsletter.
• Attend staff meetings, Academy events, and parent meetings; help plan and run Academy-wide events.
• Meet with prospective families and represent the classroom and Academy in a welcoming, professional way.
• Follow all Tennessee Department of Human Services licensing regulations, including toddler ratio and group size requirements.
• Accept temporary assignments in other classrooms when regularly scheduled staff are unavailable, and perform other related duties as needed.

Skills

Toddler care experience

CDA credential or coursework

Understanding toddler development

Calm and patient

Clear communication

Dependable and organized

Licensing requirements knowledge

Lift 40 pounds

Education

CDA credential

Associate's or Bachelor's degree

Job description

Kiddie Academy of Collierville is hiring a Toddler Lead Teacher to guide a classroom of 12–36 month olds. You’ll plan daily activities, mentor an Assistant Teacher, and serve as the main family contact.

The role focuses on language, motor, social, and early self-help skills through play, with strong emphasis on safety and routine in a developmentally appropriate setting. Ideal candidates have licensed childcare experience and the ability to lift 40 pounds, with clear communication and a