Childcare Professional

Description

SUMMARY
As part of the ARcare childcare team, the Childcare Professional (CP) is responsible for the daily care, safety, and education of children ranging in age from 6 weeks to 12 years. The CP will collaborate with co-teachers to plan and implement lessons and activities that support and enhance the holistic development of each child. The CP will comply with minimum licensing requirements set forth by the Arkansas Department of Human Services Division of Childcare and Early Childhood Education as well as adhere to higher standards necessary to maintain and elevate the Better Beginnings tier held by the ARcare Center for Education.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Engage in training sessions to enhance knowledge of the established model for early learning programming.

• Cooperate effectively and respectfully with the caregiver team to ensure seamless continuity of care for all children.

• Support the implementation of the approved curriculum for infants, toddlers, preschoolers, and/or school-age children.

• Facilitate learning experiences that support each child's holistic developmental growth, with a particular emphasis on enhancing school readiness through the development of language skills and vocabulary.

• Engage in meaningful, positive interactions with children.

• Interact with children and develop relationships in the context of everyday routines.

• Collaborate with colleagues to ensure the effective operation of the center, demonstrating flexibility to make necessary adjustments to meet the needs of the children.

• Partner with families to support the unique developmental needs and progress of each child.

• Model and guide children in the development of social and self-help skills, and sound nutritional practices.

• Assist in creating and upholding a safe, healthy, and developmentally appropriate environment.

• Communicate daily with families of children in care.

• Complete required reports and documentation.

• Participate in continuing education classes and training as required by ARcare and/or the childcare director.

• Complete timely and accurate time sheets.

• Perform other duties as may be required

SKILLS & ABILITIES

Education: A minimum of an Associate's Degree in Early Childhood Education, Child Development, or a related field is preferred. Consideration will also be given to the following educational qualifications, in descending order: a one-year technical certificate in Child Development, a Child Development Associate (CDA) credential, and a High School diploma or GED. Additionally, a minimum of 18 semester hours in coursework specifically focused on the care and education of children aged 0-5 years is preferred.

Experience: A minimum of two years of verifiable experience working with children and families is highly desirable. Additionally, experience in a team-oriented environment is preferred.

Computer Skills: Proficient in the operation of a computer and office equipment, including, but not limited to, telephones and copiers.

Certificates & Licenses: All individuals are required to register with the Arkansas Professional Development Registry (PDR) and complete a minimum of 15 hours of in-service training or approved external workshop training annually. This training should focus on continuing education in Early Childhood Education or other relevant topics related to their current position. Approval of training programs must be obtained from the Director.

Physical Demands:
CONSTANTLY- (5.5+ hrs/day)FREQUENTLY- (2.5-5.5+ hrs/day)OCCASIONALLY- (0-2.5+ hrs/day)standingwalkingsittinglift/carry 10lbs or lesshandlingclimbing reaching outwardcrawling reaching above headpush/pull 20 lbs or less squatting and/or kneelingpush/pull 21-100 lbs bending lift/carry 11-20 lbs lift/carry 21-50 lbs

Other Physical Requirements:

Vision (near, far, color, peripheral, depth perception) - required for supervision

Sense of sound - required to communicate with staff and families, required for supervision

Sense of touch - required for caregiving

---