Daycare Assistant

Daycare assistant needed

Must be able to multitask.

• Maintain constant supervision of children in your assigned group, ensuring compliance with NYC Department of Health and Mental Hygiene (DOHMH) child-to-staff ratio requirements at all times.
• Monitor children’s physical safety, emotional comfort, and social interactions, intervening promptly and positively when needed.
• Assist with toileting, diapering, and handwashing routines, following strict hygiene protocols to prevent the spread of illness.
• Provide comfort and reassurance to children experiencing separation anxiety or emotional distress, using calm, nurturing communication.

Learning & Play Support

• Support lead teachers in delivering developmentally appropriate activities that promote cognitive, social, emotional, and physical growth.
• Prepare and facilitate creative play experiences such as painting, building blocks, dramatic play, and sensory exploration.
• Engage children in storytelling, singing, and interactive reading to foster early literacy and listening skills.
• Encourage problem-solving, cooperation, and self-expression through guided group activities and free play.

Meal & Snack Assistance

• Assist in preparing, portioning, and serving meals and snacks in accordance with NYC DOHMH food safety regulations.
• Model and encourage healthy eating habits, including trying new foods and practicing good table manners.
• Support children who require extra help during mealtimes, such as opening containers, cutting food, or accommodating dietary restrictions.

Classroom Organization & Cleanliness

• Keep the classroom tidy, safe, and inviting, ensuring that learning materials are accessible and in good condition.
• Sanitize toys, tables, and high-touch surfaces daily, following NYC childcare sanitation guidelines.
• Assist in setting up and breaking down activity stations, nap areas, and outdoor play spaces.

Recordkeeping & Communication

• Help maintain accurate attendance logs, meal counts, and incident reports as required by NYC childcare licensing standards.
• Share daily observations with lead teachers, noting children’s moods, developmental milestones, and any concerns.
• Communicate respectfully and professionally with parents during drop-off and pick-up, relaying important updates when appropriate.

Outdoor & Physical Activities

• Supervise children during outdoor play, ensuring safe use of playground equipment and adherence to safety rules.
• Organize and participate in gross motor activities such as obstacle courses, ball games, and dance sessions to promote physical development.
• Adapt activities to accommodate varying skill levels and abilities, ensuring inclusivity.

Support for Special Needs

• Provide individualized attention to children with developmental delays, sensory sensitivities, or physical disabilities, following any Individualized Education Program (IEP) or care plan.
• Collaborate with lead teachers and specialists to implement inclusive learning strategies.

Team Collaboration & Professional Development

• Work closely with lead teachers, administrators, and fellow assistants to plan activities, solve challenges, and maintain a positive, respectful work environment.
• Attend regular staff meetings, training sessions, and professional development workshops, including CPR/First Aid certification, mandated reporter training, and NYC-specific childcare safety courses.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: From $16.50 per hour

Benefits:

• Paid time off

Schedule:

• 8 hour shift
• Day shift
• Monday to Friday

Supplemental Pay:

• Bonus opportunities
• Tips

Experience:

• Teaching: 1 year (Preferred)
• Childcare: 1 year (Preferred)

License/Certification:

• Child Development Associate Certification (Preferred)

Work Location: In person