Position Overview

The Daycare Teacher provides maximum opportunities for the mental, physical, and emotional growth of the individual child in a safe, clean and nurturing environment. He/She promotes family engagement in all aspects of the program and meets requirements of Federal Head Start Performance Standards and any local, state and/or agency policies and procedures.

Physical Demands
Work involves sitting with frequent requirements to move about the office and the facility. Work involves using repetitive motions of the wrists, hands and/or fingers while operating standard office equipment. Must be able to perceive the nature of sound at normal speaking levels with or without correction. Must be able to be active for extended periods of time without experiencing undue fatigue.

Must be able to lift children weighing 50 pounds or more as it may be required during emergencies or other unusual circumstances. Must be able to perform activities on the floor and outdoors with children, keeping pace with the energy level of the children. Must recognize hazards and dangerous situations and take appropriate action. Must be available to accompany children on field trips and assisting them on/off the bus and crossing the street.

Mental Demands
Must demonstrate good communication and speaking skills to receive and give information in person and by telephone. Must demonstrate strong written and verbal communication skills. Must have the ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines. 

Must have the ability to apply Early Childhood Development (focus on infant/toddler) theory in daily activities, and adapt to the individual needs of children.

Special Demands

Must possess superior customer service skills and professional etiquette. Must possess proficient knowledge and ability to use a computer (must be keyboard proficient) and other office technology (i.e. telephone, fax, etc.).  

Must have the ability to supervise and monitor children at all times to ensure a safe environment including the physical ability to monitor and move quickly in order to respond to children who are very active and may need restraint or redirection in order to ensure their safety or the safety of others.

Must have a valid drivers’ license and a satisfactory driving record.

Education

High School graduate or equivalent required. An Associate’s Degree in Early Childhood Education preferred.

Certification

A Child Development Associate credential (CDA) in infant/toddler or preschool; OR enrolled in a program leading to an associate or baccalaureate degree in early childhood education; OR enrolled in a Child Development Associate (CDA) credential program to be completed within 18 months of hire date.

Experience

Must have a minimum six (6) months experience working with toddlers and preschool children in a daycare setting.