Preschool Classroom Aide

About This Role

Join Building Blocks Child Care Center, Inc. as we seek dedicated Teacher's Assistants to support our high-quality childcare program in Pullman, WA. As a Teacher's Aide at Building Blocks Child Care Center, you will be part of a dynamic team of educators who foster a love of learning and create opportunities for young minds to grow. Our center is committed to making a difference in the lives of children, their families, and communities.

Schedule

• Monday-Friday, 11:30am-3:30pm
• Start Date: As soon as we find the right candidate
• Starting Wage: $17.15/hour

Responsibilities

• Assist in implementing educational programs and fostering connections with families and children
• Observing and documenting children's interests and progress and sharing this information with parents and staff
• Designing engaging activities based on children's interests and needs, under the guidance of Teachers and Administration
• Encouraging participation in curriculum-based activities and supporting the overall educational experience
• Engaging in daily activities, maintaining a clean and organized classroom environment, and ensuring materials are available and easily accessible
• Regularly communicating with parents through informal discussions and progress updates
• Modeling self-help and good hygiene practices and ensuring a smooth transition for children from home to childcare center
• Maintaining a commitment to our center's policies and state regulations
• Continuously developing personal and professional skills to ensure high-quality care and education
• Being a dependable and accountable team member, as your colleagues and the children in your care rely on you

Requirements

Pre-service and Hiring Requirements (required prior to, or within one week of hiring):

• Background Clearance through DCYF (Department of Youth Children and Families)
• Registration in MERIT (ECE professional development & workforce registry)
• Safe Sleep training certification
• Mandated Reporter training certification
• TB Test (negative results)
• Bloodborne Pathogens Training
• Food Handlers Permit

Education & Experience:

• High School Diploma or GED, or some college with experience in a classroom (large group) childcare experience

Training Requirements (within 90 days of hire):

• Child Care Basics Certification
• CPR & First Aid Certification

Skill Requirements:

• Able to lift and carry up to 25 pounds and in case of emergency a 40-pound child
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Able to maintain an overall positive and professional disposition
• Strong knowledge of Microsoft Office programs
• Effectively plan, organize and implement educational activities
• Demonstrable record of making decisions on behalf of children with their well-being the top priority
• Excellent leadership, organizational, and interpersonal skills
• Ability to take frequent walks, change diapers and/or help children use the potty, use hands and fingers, handle objects, tools, or controls, talk to and hear voices at many levels
• May also be required to kneel, bend, squat or crawl and lift up to 30 lbs

Benefits

• Accumulation of sick days
• Accumulation of family medical leave
• Scholarship opportunity for continuing education in ECE (bachelor's pathway)