Early Childhood - Support Teacher

About the role

Applewood's philosophy is based on respect for children, their cultural background, natural curiosity and eagerness to learn. The program strives to provide children with opportunities to learn to play, to give and take, and to experience with their whole body. Play is a major avenue for learning—it not only develops motor skills but also allows children to translate knowledge, feelings, and fantasies into action. Applewood's setting offers a combination of personal and social support in a non-competitive, individualized atmosphere.

The staff at Applewood serves as facilitator, resource, and friend to children and families, recognizing the family as the principal influence in the development of the child. Applewood focuses on the whole child—emotional, social, cognitive, and physical development—providing full support during the time spent away from home. The center strives to work in the child's and family's interest, supporting and strengthening the family within professional boundaries. It is of primary importance that every member of the center feel respected in their choices and valued for their individual differences. All staff members abide by the NAEYC Code of Ethical Conduct.

The Support Teacher contributes to the health, safety, and well-being of the children in the classroom. As a member of the team, the Support Teacher supports the child's social, emotional, physical, and cognitive development, as well as the establishment of a responsive and positive program.

During employment, all employees must attend: Child Care Licensing Orientation, Early Learning Guidelines Training, and Pyramid Model Training.

Responsibilities

• Assume responsibility for the classroom in the absence of the Teacher or Head Teacher.
• Interact with children frequently, affectionately, and respectfully at the child's level; be available and responsive to their needs, questions, and requests.
• Acknowledge children's feelings with sensitivity and model appropriate social behavior.
• Assist in developing, preparing, and implementing planned daily activities in the classroom.
• Provide anti-bias, non-sexist language, images, and experiences that counter stereotypes.
• Stock the classroom with operational supplies: paper towels, soap, gloves, napkins, etc.
• Greet families and visitors in a friendly demeanor; communicate directly to resolve conflicts and avoid gossip.
• Maintain confidentiality regarding children, families, and staff both in and outside the center.
• Ensure continuity of care by reporting to work on time, maintaining consistent attendance, and demonstrating flexibility to adjust work schedules as needed.
• Demonstrate openness to new ideas and professional growth; maintain and document required professional development hours annually.
• Maintain a State of NH Early Childhood Credential and follow all safety and health rules of the center, including state and federal guidelines.
• Maintain certification in Infant/Child CPR, First Aid, Medication Administration, and Water Safety.
• Supervise children by sight and sound at all times; maintain required child-to-staff ratios.
• Be aware of medical or allergy conditions of children, including symptoms of distress and locations of medicine and first aid supplies.
• Prepare and serve snacks; maintain cleanliness of the kitchen and snack area.
• Assist in diapering and toileting, maintaining proper hygiene.
• Disinfect toys daily and nap mats/cots weekly; assist with laundry and trash/recycling disposal.
• Attend all staff meetings and in-service trainings unless directed otherwise by a supervisor.
• In cooperation with the teaching team:
  • Maintain the health and safety of children, self, and co-workers.
  • Safely implement evacuation or lock-down procedures during emergencies.
  • Create a positive, nurturing environment to welcome families and community members.
  • Develop trusting relationships with children and families; use knowledge of each child and their background to guide curriculum development.
  • Implement planned activities in the teachers' absence and provide positive guidance for children.
  • Maintain, update, and clean the classroom environment and adjoining areas; care for materials and equipment indoors and outdoors.
  • Maintain good interpersonal and communication skills, including teamwork.

Requirements

• Professional child care experience preferred.
• Strong oral and written communication skills and basic computer skills.
• High energy and ability to work well with others (staff, children, and parents) to foster a team environment.
• A strong understanding of child development.
• Infant/Child CPR and First Aid certification.
• Must clear a full background check and pass a health screening.
• Minimum of 9 credits in Early Childhood Education.
• Excellent leadership, organizational, and interpersonal skills.

Physical Requirements

• Kneel to address children at eye level.
• Demonstrate motor activities including running, hopping, jumping, dancing, and full-body motions.
• Respond to a child in danger; lift and carry children.
• Get on the ground with children in the event of fire and help them crawl to safety.
• Respond to a child's periodic aggressive behavior.
• Maintain mental and physical alertness and an appropriate level of energy.

Qualifications

• A minimum of 9 credits in Early Childhood Education.
• Demonstrate warmth, understanding of young children and families, and enthusiasm for hard work.
• Willingness to respect and work with families with differing values, socioeconomic, and cultural backgrounds.
• Ability to show imagination and flexibility in classroom planning; open and professional attitude, and a sense of humor.
• Commitment to professional development.
• Must attend Child Care Licensing Orientation, Early Learning Guidelines Training, and Pyramid Model Training during employment.

Candidates with an Associate's Degree will be given preference.

Benefits

• Full-time Support Teachers are offered benefits after 90 days; part-time after 2 years (benefits dependent on position).
• Health Insurance
• Life Insurance
• Short-Term Disability (STD)
• Accidental Death & Dismemberment (AD&D)
• Aflac
• Paid Planning Time
• Paid Assessment Time
• NAEYC Membership
• Professional Development Stipend
• Paid Holidays
• Paid Time Off
• 401K
• Employee Discount
• First Aid & CPR Training
• Paid Lunch Break