Full Time Toddler Assistant Teacher

Reports To: Lead Teacher and Center Director

Position Type: Full-Time, Non-Exempt

Position Overview

The Assistant Teacher supports the Lead Teacher in maintaining a nurturing, organized, and engaging classroom environment for children. Assistant Teachers help implement daily routines, assist with curriculum activities, ensure safety, and promote positive interactions.

This position requires reliability, teamwork, and a caring attitude toward both children and colleagues. The Assistant Teacher plays a key role in supporting the Lead Teacher and upholding the quality standards that define Little Trailblazers Early Learning Centers.

At Little Trailblazers Early Learning Centers, every team member plays a vital role in ensuring that the day-to-day operations of the center run smoothly. We work together to create a safe, nurturing, and engaging environment for children and families.

Responsibilities listed within each job description are not limited to the items outlined. Duties may be adjusted or added as needed to support the needs of the children, families, staff, and the overall program. Collaboration, flexibility, and professionalism are key to maintaining the high-quality care and education that defines our community. As part of this school, all roles/positions are considered a safety sensitive position.

For continuity of care, assistant teachers can act as a substitute lead teacher up to two weeks. If they serve longer than two weeks, the provider must notify the Department of Children, Youth & Families (DCYF) with a plan for managing the classroom.

Education & Experience

• Must be at least 18 years of age.
• High School Diploma or GED required.
• Minimum of One years of experience in a licensed early learning or childcare setting.
• Education:
• Equivalent college credits or training that meets DCYF staff qualification standards.
• By a certain timeline, a Teacher must obtain:
• An ECE Initial Certificate (or equivalent) — either by August 1, 2026 or within five years of hire/promotion, whichever is later.
• An ECE Short Certificate (or equivalent) — either by August 1, 2028 or within two years of attaining the Initial Certificate.
• Must hold or be willing to obtain: (See required trainings in the employee checklist for the Preservice requirements)
• Food Handler's Permit
• First Aid/CPR and Bloodborne Pathogens Certification
• DCYF Background Check
• STARS 30-hour Child Care Basics Training (within 90 days of hire)

Key Qualities of an Effective Assistant Teacher

• Dependable and punctual
• Positive, patient, and nurturing
• Flexible and adaptable to changes
• Team-oriented with strong communication skills
• Observant and proactive in meeting children's needs
• Maintains confidentiality and professionalism
• Ability to lift up to 40 pounds.
• Frequent standing, bending, and movement at children's level.
• Quick response to children's physical and emotional needs.

Planning and Curriculum Support

• Assist in preparing materials and classroom environments for activities.
• Contribute ideas and input during curriculum discussions and planning sessions.
• Follow the weekly lesson plan prepared by the Lead Teacher and support in implementing it effectively.
• Provide feedback and observations to the Lead Teacher to help plan future activities based on children's interests and needs.

Classroom Cleanliness and Organization

• Help maintain a clean, organized, and inviting classroom.
• Participate in daily and monthly cleaning routines and complete assigned tasks on the Monthly Cleaning Checklist.
• Ensure children's belongings are stored neatly in cubbies or backpacks.
• Notify the Lead Teacher or Director when supplies are running low or when maintenance is needed.
• Assist with classroom laundry, toy sanitizing, and material organization as directed.
• Keep the outdoor play area tidy and ensure all materials are put away after use.

Teacher Communication & Professional Conduct

• Communicate respectfully and professionally with all staff, families, and management.
• Arrive on time and adhere to scheduled breaks and shift times.
• Maintain a positive, cooperative, and flexible attitude throughout the day.
• Refrain from gossip or negativity and model professionalism at all times.
• Bring classroom or child concerns directly to the Lead Teacher or Director promptly and privately.
• Support and uplift team morale — we are one team with one mission.

Parent Communication

• Greet parents warmly and respectfully during drop-off and pick-up.
• Support the Lead Teacher in providing updates or photos via Brightwheel at assigned times.
• Notify the Lead Teacher of any parent questions or concerns immediately.
• Never discuss sensitive or behavioral issues directly with families unless directed by the Director or Lead Teacher.
• Demonstrate empathy and understanding when communicating with families.

Child Interaction & Behavior Guidance

• Engage with children using positive reinforcement and redirection techniques.
• Model kindness, patience, and positive social interactions.
• Build meaningful connections with children by being present, attentive, and supportive.
• Promote emotional regulation, independence, and cooperative play.

Active Supervision

• Maintain active supervision at all times — knowing the location and number of children in your care.
• Use effective zoning strategies to ensure all areas of the classroom and playground are monitored.
• Communicate with coworkers when moving to a different zone or area.
• Remain focused on the children; avoid distractions such as personal phone use.
• Assist in ensuring the Preschool gate is supervised during drop-off and pick-up.

Children's Health & Safety

• Support daily hygiene routines such as handwashing, toileting, and cleaning.
• Ensure no outdoor shoes enter the classroom beyond the cubby area.
• Help children learn hygiene habits in a positive, encouraging way.
• Wipe faces, hands, and ensure children are clean and comfortable throughout the day.
• Change diapers every two hours or as needed, and communicate with the Lead Teacher about supplies or changes in routines.
• Assist with potty training and help maintain consistency for each child's progress.

Children's Artwork & Creativity

• Help set up and support art projects and hands-on activities.
• Display children's work in the classroom and assist in sending projects home weekly.
• Encourage children to express themselves freely through art, music, and sensory play.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $22.00 per hour

Benefits:

• Paid time off

Education:

• High school or equivalent (Preferred)

License/Certification:

• Food Handler Certification (Required)
• MERIT Background Check (Required)
• 30 STARS Child Basics (Required)
• CPR + First Aid Certification (Required)
• Child Development Associate Certification (Preferred)

Work Location: In person