Infant and Toddler Lead Teacher

About the role

This Lead Teacher role involves developing and overseeing an educational program for infants and toddlers, ensuring a nurturing environment that fosters their social, emotional, cognitive, and physical growth. The successful candidate will plan, implement, and supervise the program, lead a team of classroom staff, and work closely with families to provide a safe and stimulating environment.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement engaging learning experiences and curriculum tailored to each child’s unique needs and abilities.
• Collect, maintain, and analyze child development records, individualized goals, and lesson plans to ensure a comprehensive understanding of each child’s progress.
• Administer developmental screenings and participate in the DAEG and IFSP processes to support each child’s development and growth.
• Conduct regular observations and assessments of children’s development, documenting progress and identifying areas of strength and need.
• Provide high‑quality care and support to children, utilizing positive behavior strategies to promote social, emotional, and cognitive development.
• Ensure smooth operation of daily routines—including feeding, diapering, and care activities—while maintaining a safe and healthy environment.
• Support and supervise a team of classroom staff and volunteers, promoting a positive and inclusive work environment.
• Use evidence‑based positive guidance and behavior management strategies to promote children’s social, emotional, and cognitive development.
• Maintain a safe and organized learning environment, ensuring smooth transitions and minimizing disruptions.
• Foster strong relationships with children, families, and staff, promoting a culture of respect, trust, and open communication.
• Collaborate with program staff to develop and implement strategies that support the overall development and well‑being of children and families.
• Ensure compliance with health, safety, and sanitation standards, maintaining a clean and hygienic environment for all children and staff.
• Provide active supervision and safe learning environments at all times, administering first aid and medication as needed according to established procedures.
• Attend required training and professional development activities to stay up‑to‑date with best practices and regulations.
• Maintain adherence to program policies and regulations, participating in meetings, supervision, and quality‑improvement activities as required.

Requirements

Required:

• Infant/Toddler Child Development Associate (CDA) credential.
• Knowledge of developmentally appropriate practices for children aged 0‑3 years.
• Knowledge of Head Start/Early Head Start program standards.
• High School Diploma.
• Valid driver’s license and/or access to transportation to other centers as needed.
• Ability to meet and maintain compliance with ODJFS, USDA, health, and sanitation regulations.

Preferred / Nice to Haves:

• Bilingual (English/Spanish or other languages) is a plus.
• Previous experience working with infants and toddlers in a group setting.
• Associate’s degree in Early Childhood Education, Child Development, or a related field.
• Experience working with culturally and linguistically diverse families.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite (Outlook, Word, Excel, etc.).
• Excellent interpersonal, verbal, and written communication skills.
• Organized, detail‑oriented, with strong problem‑solving and decision‑making abilities.
• Collaborative, team‑oriented attitude with a positive and dedicated work ethic toward children and families.
• Willingness to continue professional education and learning.
• Demonstrated knowledge of child and family curriculum, Conscious Discipline principles, and Head Start practices.

Benefits

• Health Insurance
• Dental Insurance
• Vision Insurance
• Life Insurance
• Paid Leave
• Retirement Plan
• Tuition Assistance
• Child Care Discount
• Professional Development
• Student Loan Forgiveness
• Paid holidays