Toddler Teacher

Children; Vernon Hills (IL); On-site; USD 36,000 - 48,000; Full time

Job summary

Children's Land in Vernon Hills seeks a Lead Toddler Teacher to foster a nurturing, educational environment for toddlers. You will design engaging lesson plans, track developmental milestones, and ensure safety and hygiene in a structured daily routine.

The role requires a Bachelor's in Early Childhood Education, experience with toddlers, and DCFS Illinois knowledge, plus CPR/First Aid certification. You will collaborate with families and staff to support holistic toddler development.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education required.
• Experience with toddlers or young children is essential.
• Knowledge of DCFS requirements in Illinois.
• CPR and First Aid certification is required.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills are essential.
• Ability to work cooperatively in a team environment.
• Patience and a genuine love for working with toddlers.

Responsibilities

• Develop and follow age-appropriate lesson plans that foster growth.
• Monitor toddlers' developmental milestones and maintain progress records.
• Facilitate a structured daily routine including play, learning, and rest.
• Ensure toddler safety by following protocols and guidelines.
• Maintain a clean, hygienic classroom environment.
• Collaborate with parents to share progress and concerns.
• Work with staff to ensure a cohesive team environment.
• Create and use educational materials to stimulate development.
• Organize activities to explore surroundings and motor skills.
• Participate in ongoing professional development.
• Stay informed on the latest toddler education practices.

Skills

Lift up to 40 lbs

Active engagement with children

Time management

Multitasking

Interpersonal skills

Child development knowledge

Empathy

Observational skills

Creativity in materials

Safety and hygiene

Education

Bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education

Tools

CPR and First Aid certification

Job description

At Children's Land, we are committed to providing a nurturing and educational environment where children can grow and learn. Our dedicated team works together with families to ensure the holistic development of every child. We believe in fostering a love for learning from a young age, setting the foundation for a lifetime of curiosity and growth.

The Lead Toddler Teacher at Children's Land of Vernon Hills is responsible for fostering a vibrant and nurturing learning environment where toddlers can explore, learn, and grow. This role requires a dynamic individual who can create engaging learning experiences that cater to the developmental needs of toddlers. A deep understanding of the DCFS requirements in Illinois is essential to ensure the highest standards of childcare and education.

Roles and Responsibilities

• Develop and follow age-appropriate lesson plans that encourage physical, emotional, and intellectual growth.
• Monitor toddlers' developmental milestones and maintain detailed records of their progress.
• Facilitate a structured daily routine that includes playtime, learning activities, and rest periods.
• Always ensure the safety of toddlers by adhering to safety protocols and guidelines.
• Maintain a clean and hygienic classroom environment to prevent the spread of germs and illnesses.
• Collaborate with parents to keep them informed about their child's development and any concerns.
• Work closely with other staff members to ensure a cohesive and cooperative working environment.
• Create and utilize educational materials to stimulate toddlers' senses and promote learning.
• Organize activities that encourage toddlers to explore their surroundings and develop their motor skills.
• Participate in ongoing professional development to enhance skills and knowledge in early childhood education.
• Stay abreast of the latest developments in toddler education and care.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education or a related field.
• Previous experience working with toddlers or young children.
• Knowledge of DCFS requirements in Illinois.
• CPR and First Aid certification.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work cooperatively in a team environment.
• Patience and a genuine love for working with toddlers.

Skills

• Lift and carry children weighing up to 40 lbs.
• Stand for extended periods of time, run, and actively engage in play with children.
• Balance multiple tasks simultaneously (feeding, teaching, supervising) while remaining attentive and responsive.
• Transition quickly and easily between sitting (chair or floor) and standing positions.
• Effectively manage children’s challenging behaviors.
• Demonstrate empathy and strong interpersonal skills to foster supportive, positive interactions with children and parents.
• Strong observational and analytical skills.
• Creativity in developing educational materials and activities.
• Ability to manage time effectively and multitask.
• Strong understanding of child development and early childhood education best practices.