Toddler Lead Teacher - Stratford Y

Central Connecticut Coast YMCA; Stratford (CT); On-site; USD 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a compassionate Toddler Lead Teacher to join their early childhood education team. This role is pivotal in creating a nurturing and developmentally appropriate environment for toddlers aged 1 to 3. You will design engaging lesson plans, support individual child development, and foster strong relationships with families. As part of a collaborative team, you will ensure a safe and enriching classroom experience aligned with educational standards. If you are passionate about making a meaningful difference in children's lives and have the skills to lead with creativity and care, this opportunity is perfect for you.

Qualifications

• Degree in Early Childhood Education is required.
• Strong communication and problem-solving skills are essential.

Responsibilities

• Provide a nurturing and engaging learning environment for toddlers.
• Design and implement creative lesson plans tailored to individual development.

Skills

Communication Skills

Collaboration Skills

Problem-Solving Skills

Patience

Professionalism

Education

Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education

Job description

The Stratford Y, a branch of the Central Connecticut Coast Y, is seeking a compassionate and energetic Toddler Lead Teacher to join our early childhood education team. In this role, you will provide a nurturing, engaging, and developmentally appropriate learning environment for toddlers ages 1 to 3. You’ll design and implement creative lesson plans, support each child’s individual development, and build strong, supportive relationships with families. This position plays a key role in promoting the YMCA’s mission of strengthening community through youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility.

As a Lead Teacher, you'll ensure a safe, inclusive, and enriching classroom experience aligned with YMCA and Office of Early Childhood (OEC) standards. You’ll also be part of a collaborative and mission-driven team committed to making a meaningful difference every day.

Minimum Qualifications

• Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education (required)
• Demonstrated ability to lead a toddler classroom with creativity, structure, and care
• Strong communication, collaboration, and problem-solving skills
• Patience and professionalism when working with young children and families
• Ability to supervise children actively and respond to emergencies quickly and calmly
• OEC background check and fingerprinting within 30 days of hire
• Physical exam and TB test required at hire and every 2 years
• CPR/First Aid certification within 6 months of hire (Administration of Meds certification preferred)
• Must meet annual professional development training hours per OEC guidelines