Assistant Toddler Teacher - OTR

Gold-Rated Step Up to Quality | Full-Time | OTR Cincinnati OH 45214 | Benefits Included

About Water Lily Learning Center

Water Lily Learning Center - OTR is a Gold-rated Step Up to Quality program in Cincinnati's Over-the-Rhine neighborhood. Our toddler classrooms are structured, energetic spaces built around language development, independence, and social-emotional growth. We implement the Creative Curriculum and align practice with Ohio's 2024 Early Learning and Development Standards.

Position Summary

The Assistant Toddler Teacher - OTR partners with the Lead Toddler Teacher at our OTR campus to deliver engaging, well-managed care for toddlers ages 12 to 36 months. This role requires energy, patience, and consistency — and is ideal for someone ready to grow as an educator inside a Gold-rated program.

Key Responsibilities

• Support the Lead Toddler Teacher in implementing Creative Curriculum lesson plans and daily toddler routines
• Facilitate small group activities, sensory play, and language-rich experiences for OTR toddlers
• Assist with transitions, meals, nap time, outdoor play, and daily classroom management
• Maintain a clean, organized, and developmentally appropriate toddler classroom per Ohio DCY and Gold standards
• Assist with diapering, toileting support, and hygiene routines
• Support developmental observation and documentation as directed by the Lead Teacher
• Build warm, consistent relationships with OTR toddlers and their families
• Follow all Water Lily Learning Center, DCY, and Step Up to Quality Gold classroom standards and safety procedures

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required; CDA, ECE coursework, or Associate degree preferred
• Prior experience with toddlers in a licensed childcare or early childhood setting strongly preferred
• Current CPR and First Aid certification required prior to working with children
• Understanding of toddler development, behavior, and age-appropriate expectations
• Calm, flexible, and energetic disposition suited to the demands of an active toddler classroom
• Ability to work on your feet, lift up to 40 lbs, and engage at floor level for extended periods
• Must meet all Ohio DCY employment eligibility requirements including applicable clearances

Schedule and Compensation

• Full-time, Monday through Friday
• $14-$17/hr based on experience and qualifications
• Health, dental, and retirement benefits included
• Paid professional development and training

Health and Wellness Benefits:

• Health Insurance
• 401(k) Retirement Savings Plan
• Dental
• Vision
• Life Insurance
• Long-Term Disability
• Short-Term Disability
• NexGenEAP (Employee Assistance Program)
• Working Advantage (Employee Discount and Reward Program)
• Balance Care
• FinFit Financial Wellness
• Cancer Advocate
• Long-Term Care Insurance
• Pay on Demand
• Staff Meetings: Monthly paid meetings
• 11 Paid Holidays
• Paid Time Off (PTO):
• Paid Professional Development
• Weekly Pay
• Employee Referral Program
• Plus More

Why Join Water Lily?

• Gold-rated program — a credentialed, high-quality environment to build your early childhood career
• Paid professional development with focus on toddler care and Creative Curriculum
• Collaborative team with experienced lead teachers and supportive OTR leadership
• Structured career pathway toward lead teacher certification
• Help toddlers build language, confidence, and independence every single day