Assistant Educator

The role

At Yellow Brick Road, we’re dedicated to fostering a nurturing environment where children, families, and staff can thrive. The Assistant Educator plays a crucial role in supporting the Lead Educator in creating a positive and innovative learning space.

Responsibilities

• Support Curriculum Implementation
• Assist in implementing play-based, age-appropriate lesson plans and activities that promote physical, cognitive, emotional, and social development.
• Maintain a positive classroom culture that fosters a sense of belonging, safety, and curiosity.
• Child Supervision and Interaction
• Safeguard children's safety and encourage their active participation in daily activities.
• Monitor children's developmental progress and support documentation as directed by the Lead Educator.
• Classroom Management Support
• Maintain an organized, clean, and safe classroom environment.
• Guide children in conflict resolution and problem-solving using developmentally appropriate techniques.
• Support adherence to classroom schedules and routines.
• Family Communication
• Communicate positively and professionally with families during drop-off, pick-up, and as needed, under the guidance from the Lead Teacher and Director.
• Provide daily updates through the company’s Parent Communication app on children's daily progress, activities, and development.
• Professional Development
• Collaborate with colleagues and supervisors to share ideas, resources, and best practices, fostering a culture of collaboration and innovation.

Requirements

• Previous experience working with young children in a childcare setting is preferred.
• Knowledge of early childhood development principles and best practices.
• Strong communication, interpersonal, and organizational skills.
• Ability to work effectively as part of a team.
• Physical abilities to stand or sit for extended periods, lift and carry up to 65lbs, bend, stoop, and kneel to interact with children at their level, and respond quickly to emergencies or situations requiring physical intervention.
• Willingness to undergo background checks and meet state licensing requirements for working in a childcare setting.
• Must possess a valid CPR/First Aid certification, or willing to obtain within 30 days of employment.

Qualifications

• Education and Experience
• A high school diploma or equivalent is required.
• A bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education, Child Development, or a related field is preferred.
• Background Checks and Licensing
• Must meet state licensing requirements for working in a childcare setting.

Skills

• Positive and professional communication skills.
• Ability to work collaboratively with colleagues and supervisors.
• Effective organizational and time management skills.
• Ability to handle emergencies and conflicts in a calm and effective manner.

Benefits

• Ongoing Professional Development & Growth Opportunities
• Monday - Friday Schedule – No Weekends!
• 401(k) Plan
• Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance
• Paid Time Off & Paid Holidays
• Employee Childcare Discount

Pay

The starting pay range for this position is $14 to $17 an hour and is applicable for candidates who will be working at our locations in Iowa. This range is subject to adjustment for other geographic work locations.