Nature Based Co-Teacher (1 Year Old Classroom)

About the role

First Roots – Wild Roots is seeking a warm, patient and collaborative Toddler Co-Teacher to join our 5-STAR nature-based early childhood program serving one-year-old children. Here, teaching is not just a job — it’s meaningful work that supports children during one of the most important stages of development.

Responsibilities

• Create a nurturing and engaging environment where toddlers can safely explore their growing independence.
• Build strong relationships with toddlers and their families, supporting emotional regulation, social development and secure attachments.
• Support toddlers in important milestones such as walking, self-help skills and communication.
• Engage toddlers in outdoor exploration and nature-based learning experiences.
• Plan developmentally appropriate experiences based on children’s interests and emerging skills.
• Encourage language development, movement, sensory exploration and early social interactions.
• Document growth, interests and milestones using observations aligned with Vermont Early Learning Standards.
• Collaborate with co-teachers and program leadership, participating in professional development and staff meetings.

Requirements

• Experience working with toddlers or young children.
• Education in Early Childhood Education, Environmental Education or a related field preferred.
• A passion for nature-based learning and child-led exploration.
• Strong communication and teamwork skills.
• A calm, nurturing and patient presence.

Qualifications

• CPR Certification (Preferred).
• 21 ECE Credits (Required).
• Associate (Preferred) degree in Early Childhood Education.
• One year of experience in Early Childhood Education (Preferred).

Skills

• Outdoorsy and adaptable to all weather conditions.
• Passionate about toddler curiosity and accomplishments.
• Ability to embrace the unpredictability and wonder of toddlerhood.
• Warm, flexible, humorous and kind demeanor.

Benefits

• Dental insurance.
• Employee discount.
• Health insurance.
• Life insurance.
• Paid time off.
• Professional development assistance.
• Tuition reimbursement.
• Vision insurance.

Pay

$43,120.00 - $49,360.00 per year.

Schedule

In person.