Toddler Teacher

Job Posting ID: 97

Location(s): YAKIMA

Employment Type: Full Time

Job Type: Non-Exempt

Posted Date: 04/01/2026

Deadline: 04/15/2026

Pay: $19.06 - $20.23

Hours per Day: 8:00:00

Provide a safe, nurturing, and developmentally appropriate learning environment for toddlers ages 12 months to 30 months, supporting children’s health, welfare, and school readiness.
Plan and implement engaging indoor and outdoor learning experiences using an approved curriculum framework and consistent daily routines.
Support toddlers’ social-emotional development through responsive caregiving, positive guidance, and strong teacher-child relationships.
Observe, document, and assess each child’s development through screenings, ongoing observations, and individualized learning plans.
Partner with families through regular communication, parent conferences, and inclusive classroom involvement that respects culture, interests, and family values.
Maintain accurate, timely, and confidential child records in compliance with program standards and ESD 105 policies.
Collaborate effectively with classroom assistants, support staff, and program teams to ensure high-quality instruction and coordinated services.
Participate in professional development, program evaluations, and continuous improvement activities, including appropriate use of classroom technology and training tools.

Perform other related duties as assigned to support the effective operation of the early learning program.

Toddler development and early childhood education practices for children ages 1–3.
Knowledge of family dynamics and the needs of families with young children, including those experiencing economic or social barriers.
Culturally responsive and inclusive practices that support a welcoming learning environment for all children and families.
Washington State childcare licensing requirements, health and safety standards, and supervision practices.
Familiarity with Early Achievers and Quality Recognition systems.

Skill in managing a toddler classroom with patience, consistency, and nurturing guidance.
Strong communication and interpersonal skills with young children, families, and program staff.
Skill in planning and implementing engaging learning activities and daily routines aligned with approved curriculum frameworks.
Organizational skills to maintain accurate documentation, manage classroom responsibilities, and meet program requirements.
Problem-solving skills to respond effectively to classroom challenges and support positive child behavior.
Bilingual communication skills in English required; Spanish fluency preferred.

Work independently with minimal supervision while collaborating effectively within a classroom and early learning program team.
Build positive working partnerships with families and encourage family engagement in the classroom.
Create developmentally appropriate lesson plans for toddlers.
Encourage family engagement and maintain strong partnerships with parents.
Participate in required trainings, meetings, and professional development activities.

Must be at least eighteen (18) years of age.
Early Childhood Education (ECE) Short Certificate required. An ECE Initial Certificate may be accepted with the condition that the Short Certificate is obtained within two (2) years of employment.
Candidates who do not currently meet the certificate requirement may be hired provisionally with an approved Professional Development Plan.
Completion of 30 hours of Initial Basic STARS training in MERIT is required.

At least three (3) years of demonstrated experience working with young children in an early learning setting, such as ECEAP, Head Start, licensed child care, or other comparable early learning childhood education programs.

Must meet Washington State Department of Children, Youth, and Families (DCYF) staff qualification requirements, which include age and education/training criteria related to licensing rules for early learning providers.

Successful completion of required tuberculosis (TB) screening, immunization compliance (including MMR vaccination), and a Washington State Department of Children, Youth, and Families (DCYF) background check and clearance.
Must maintain ongoing background clearance and health documentation in accordance with state childcare licensing regulations and ESD 105 policies.
Must hold or obtain and maintain a current Food Handler’s Card and First Aid/CPR certification as required for early learning program staff.

Experience working in ECEAP, Head Start, or other comprehensive early childhood education programs.
Experience supporting children and families from low-income or underserved communities.
Bilingual and bicultural skills in English and Spanish; Spanish fluency preferred.

Work is performed primarily in an early learning center classroom serving toddlers ages 1–3, including indoor and outdoor play and learning environments. The setting is active and child centered, requiring continuous supervision, frequent interaction with young children, and collaboration with teaching staff and families. Noise levels and activity levels may vary throughout the day depending on classroom routines. The position involves physical caregiving tasks, including diapering, feeding, cleaning, and supporting children’s daily health and safety needs in accordance with licensing and program standards.

Standing and walking throughout the day while supervising toddlers, supporting classroom routines, and transitioning between activities.
Visual and auditory acuity to provide continuous supervision and respond quickly to children’s needs and safety situations.
Frequent hand use and repetitive motions are associated with caregiving tasks such as diapering, feeding, cleaning, and handling classroom materials.

Sitting on the floor or low chairs to engage with children during play, circle time, meals, and learning activities.
Bending, kneeling, squatting, and crouching to assist children with toileting, dressing, and participation in activities at child's level.
Reaching, grasping, and fine motor use while preparing materials, supporting learning tasks, and maintaining the classroom environment.
Supervising children outdoors in varying weather conditions, including walking and standing on playground surfaces.

Lifting and carrying toddlers and classroom equipment, typically up to 40 lbs, as needed for caregiving and safety.
Pushing or pulling items such as strollers, classroom furniture, wagons, or playground equipment.