Infant & Toddler Assistant Teacher

PRECIOUS MEMORIES CHILD CARE L

Infant & Toddler Assistant Teacher

Bridgeport, CT
Full Time
Paid
  • Responsibilities

    Benefits:

    Dental insurance

    Health insurance

    Vision insurance

    The Infant & Toddler Assistant Teacher supports the Lead Teacher in providing a safe, nurturing, and engaging learning environment for children from birth to two and a half years old. The Assistant Teacher assists with implementing developmentally appropriate activities, maintaining classroom routines, ensuring the health and safety of all children, and fostering positive relationships with children, families, and staff.

    Minimum Qualifications

    Associate's degree or Child Development Associate (CDA) credential in Early Childhood Education (ECE), Child Development, or a closely related field.

    Minimum of 2 years of experience working with infants and toddlers in a licensed early childhood setting.

    Knowledge of child development, developmentally appropriate practices (DAP), and positive behavior guidance.

    Current CPR and First Aid Certification (or ability to obtain upon hire).

    Ability to successfully complete all required background checks and meet state licensing requirements.

    Essential Duties and Responsibilities

    Classroom Support

    Assist the Lead Teacher in implementing developmentally appropriate curriculum and daily lesson plans.

    Help create a warm, welcoming, and inclusive classroom environment.

    Supervise children at all times to ensure their safety and well-being.

    Support children during indoor and outdoor activities, meals, naps, diapering, toileting, and transitions.

    Prepare classroom materials and learning centers as directed by the Lead Teacher.

    Child Development

    Encourage children's social, emotional, cognitive, language, and physical development through meaningful interactions.

    Observe and share information regarding children's progress with the Lead Teacher.

    Support children's independence, self-help skills, and positive social interactions.

    Assist with maintaining children's portfolios and classroom documentation as assigned.

    Family Engagement

    Greet families warmly and communicate respectfully with parents and guardians.

    Maintain confidentiality regarding children and families.

    Direct questions or concerns to the Lead Teacher or administration when appropriate.

    Health and Safety

    Follow all health, sanitation, and safety procedures.

    Assist with diapering, feeding, handwashing, and safe sleep practices according to program policies.

    Maintain a clean, organized, and sanitized classroom environment.

    Report accidents, incidents, illnesses, or concerns immediately to the Lead Teacher and administration.

    Program Compliance

    Follow all state licensing regulations, program policies, and classroom procedures.

    Complete assigned documentation accurately and on time.

    Attend required staff meetings, trainings, and professional development.

    Support accreditation and quality improvement initiatives.

    Team Collaboration

    Work cooperatively with the Lead Teacher, administration, and other staff members.

    Demonstrate professionalism, reliability, flexibility, and a positive attitude.

    Accept feedback and actively contribute to a collaborative team environment.

    Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

    Understanding of infant and toddler development.

    Ability to build nurturing relationships with young children.

    Strong communication and interpersonal skills.

    Good organizational and time management skills.

    Ability to work effectively as part of a team.

    Dependable, patient, and committed to providing high-quality care and education.

    Physical Requirements

    Lift and carry children weighing up to 40 pounds.

    Sit on the floor, bend, kneel, squat, and stand for extended periods.

    Push strollers, move classroom equipment, and actively participate in indoor and outdoor activities.

    Respond quickly and appropriately in emergency situations.

    Work Schedule

    Full-time position.

    Must maintain reliable attendance and punctuality.

    Occasional evening meetings, family events, or professional development may be required.

    Preferred Qualifications

    Experience in a NAEYC-accredited or state-funded early childhood program.

    Familiarity with developmental assessments and early learning standards.

    Bilingual (preferred but not required).

    The Infant & Toddler Assistant Teacher is expected to uphold the mission and values of the program by working collaboratively with the Lead Teacher to provide high-quality care and education in a safe, respectful, and nurturing environment that supports each child's growth, development, and overall well-being.