Toddler Preschool Teacher

Association for Early Learning Leaders; Silver Spring (MD); On-site; USD 20,664 - 24,796; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Flexible schedule

Opportunity for advancement

Training & development

Free food & snacks

Job summary

A nurturing childcare center in Silver Spring, Maryland, is seeking an experienced childcare provider to create a safe and engaging environment for children ages 3 months through school age. Responsibilities include planning age-appropriate activities, maintaining cleanliness, and providing individual care based on children's needs. Candidates must possess an Associate’s Degree in early childhood education or related credentials, along with required certifications. This position offers competitive compensation between $15.00 and $18.00 per hour.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 1 year of experience working with children ages 2 to 5.
• Current CPR and First Aid certification.
• Successful completion of all required background checks.

Responsibilities

• Create a safe, welcoming environment for children.
• Feed children healthy meals and document relevant information.
• Support children with self-regulation challenges.

Skills

Effective multitasking

Strong decision-making skills

Excellent written and verbal communication

Attention to detail

Flexibility and adaptability

Education

Associate’s Degree in early childhood education or related field

CDA (Child Development Associate) credential

Job description

About Us

At Joyful Hearts Child Care, we believe in creating a joyful, nurturing, and fun environment where children thrive! As a licensed and registered family childcare (in-home) program, we serve children ages 3 months through school age, using a play-based philosophy to support cognitive, physical, emotional, and social-emotional growth. Our goal is to help each child reach their full potential through hands‑on learning, creative exploration, and social engagement in a safe and loving atmosphere.

Benefits

• Flexible schedule
• Opportunity for advancement
• Training & development
• Free food & snacks

Essential Duties & Functions

Day to Day Responsibilities

• Create a safe, welcoming environment and provide individualized care based on each child’s needs and parent‑provided schedules.
• Feed children healthy, approved meals, and document meals, toileting/diapering, and naps using the Brightwheel app.
• Support children with self‑regulation challenges, assist with sleep routines, and manage diapering or restroom needs as required.
• Maintain a clean, organized environment and report any injuries immediately while providing appropriate care.

Education / Behavior Management

• Assist in planning and implementing age‑appropriate lesson plans that incorporate art, sensory, science, math, and literacy activities.
• Foster a play‑based learning environment with open‑ended art and sensory play opportunities available daily.
• Use positive behavior management techniques and collaborate with teachers to ensure consistent classroom practices.
• Decorate and maintain the classroom with displays that reflect curriculum themes and enhance the learning atmosphere.

Training / Compliance

• Adhere to procedures and guidelines for all regulation‑based tasks, including diapering, sunscreen application, and behavior management.
• Complete and maintain required training hours, both on‑site and off‑site, and pursue additional training in areas of interest or need.
• Ensure classroom ratios are always maintained by coordinating with staff before leaving the room.
• Refrain from using cell phones in the classroom to stay focused and present with the children.

Requirements

• Associate’s Degree with at least 9 credit hours in early childhood education or a related field, or a CDA (Child Development Associate) credential.
• Minimum of 1 year of experience working with children ages 2 to 5 in a toddler or preschool setting.
• Current CPR and First Aid certification.
• Successful completion of all required background checks.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

Additional Competencies

• Ability to multitask effectively and thrive in a high‑energy, loud environment.
• Strong decision‑making skills and attention to detail, paired with a reflective mindset.
• Reliable transportation to ensure consistent attendance.
• Commitment to maintaining a professional appearance and attitude.
• Flexibility and adaptability to meet the dynamic needs of the workplace.

Physical Requirements

The demands of this job require the candidate to sit, stand, walk, bend, jump, reach, and lift equipment and children up to 50 pounds. This position often requires the candidate to be outdoors, to crawl, stoop, balance, walk up and down stairs, and run.

Compensation

$15.00 - $18.00 per hour

Equal Opportunity Statement

We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.