Lead Toddler Teacher

Job Summary
We are seeking a dedicated and experienced Lead toddler teacher to join our team here at EllaRai Academy. The ideal candidate will be passionate about fostering developmental growth in toddlers, creating a nurturing classroom environment, and implementing age-appropriate curriculum. This role offers an opportunity to lead classroom activities, collaborate with families, and contribute to the overall well-being and development of our youngest learners. The Lead Toddler Teacher will play a vital role in supporting early childhood development through responsive caregiving, early developmental enrichment strategies and compassionate care.

Duties

• Implement engaging, developmentally appropriate learning experiences tailored for toddlers utilizing Brightwheel, incorporating early literacy exposure, hands-on sensory activities, and responsive early learning practices.
• Manage daily classroom routines, including feeding, diapering/toileting, and nap schedules, ensuring a safe and nurturing environment.
• Utilize behavior management strategies to promote positive social interactions and emotional development among infants and toddlers.
• Collaborate with families to communicate progress, address concerns, and support whole child wellness.
• Maintain accurate documentation of developmental milestones and assessments aligned with NYS Early Learning Guidelines.
• Supervise assistant teachers and support staff to ensure intentional learning and high-quality care is maintained.
• Integrate physical education activities suitable for toddlers to promote motor skill development.
• Ensure compliance with OCFS licensing regulations and health and safety protocols.
• Foster an inclusive environment that supports diversity, promotes belonging, and prepares children for a confident future.

Experience

• Minimum 2 years experience working with toddlers in a daycare setting required.
• Knowledge of developmentally appropriate practices (DAP) in early child development and toddler milestones (motor skills, cognitive, language, and social/emotional).
• Experience with toddler care, behavior management techniques, and positive guidance strategies.
• Knowledge of Montessori methods or other educational philosophies is a plus.
• Strong communication skills for effective collaboration with families and team members.

Education Requirements

• Associate's degree or higher in early childhood education (ECE), child development, or a related field OR
• Infant and toddler childcare and education credential OR
• Child Development Associate Credential (CDA) OR
• Other office-recognized credential specific to the infant/toddler developmental period OR
• 9 college credits in ECE, child development, or a related field with a plan of study leading to one of the above mentioned credentials.

Qualifications

• Proven experience working with children in a preschool or daycare setting, with a strong background in toddler care.
• Demonstrated expertise in curriculum development, classroom management, behavior management strategies, and childhood development principles.
• Prior experience in Montessori or other specialized early childhood education methods is preferred.
• Knowledge of standardized testing procedures related to early learning assessments.
• Excellent communication skills for engaging effectively with children, families, and team members.
• Ability to lead classroom activities that incorporate literacy education, math concepts, physical education, and social-emotional learning.
• Certification in early childhood education or a related field is required; additional training in special education or early intervention is a plus.
• Strong organizational skills to manage lesson planning, documentation, and classroom routines efficiently. Join us as a Lead Toddler Teacher where your enthusiasm fuels young minds’ growth! Bring your expertise in early childhood education to create joyful learning experiences that lay the foundation for lifelong success. We are committed to supporting your professional development while providing a rewarding environment dedicated to nurturing the next generation of learners!

Benefits

• Professional Development Assistance
• Support with credentialing (CDA, CPAC+)
• Tuition Reimbursements
• Positive and supportive working environment
• Paid Holidays
• Childcare Discount
• Staff appreciation events
• Flexibility

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $21.00 - $28.00 per hour

Benefits:

• Employee assistance program
• Employee discount
• Flexible schedule
• Paid time off
• Parental leave
• Professional development assistance
• Tuition reimbursement

Work Location: In person