Early Childhood Learning Teacher Assistant

HEALTHY KIDS PROGRAMS • Town of Wappinger, NY

4d • Onsite

About The Position

Healthy Kids Programs is hiring a part-time Early Childhood Learning Teacher Assistant at its Early Learning Center in Poughkeepsie, New York, for the 2026–2027 school year. The role supports children’s learning through play and positive experiences, helps create a safe and engaging classroom, and works with families and teammates. The listed hours are 6:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m.; the posting does not specify which days those hours apply to. Pay is $16.00 per hour. The position is non-exempt.

The successful candidate brings energy, kindness, patience, reliability, and organization to work with children. The role may suit people seeking hands-on experience with children and classroom management, including education students, parents seeking a schedule that aligns with the school day, and retirees who enjoy mentoring children.

Healthy Kids Programs describes itself as a certified Benefit Corporation providing Early Learning, Before and After School, and Summer Camp programs at more than 150 locations. Its stated mission is to make childcare accessible and affordable while creating meaningful opportunities for children, families, and team members.

Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent, or at least one year of experience working with children under age 13.
• Required health clearance, including TB screening, in accordance with state regulations.
• Positive attitude, strong interpersonal skills, professionalism, and reliability.
• Ability to bend, stretch, lift, and carry up to 50 pounds while actively engaging with children throughout the day.

Nice To Haves

• Enjoy working with children and helping them learn through play and positive experiences.
• Energy, kindness, and patience.
• Interest in encouraging children's curiosity, creativity, and confidence.
• Ability to work well with teammates and communicate effectively with families.
• For prospective candidates, hands-on experience may be of interest to education majors or future teachers; the role may also suit parents seeking a schedule that aligns with the school day and retirees who enjoy mentoring children.

Responsibilities

• Collaborate with the School-Age Childcare Lead to facilitate hands-on activities aligned with the Creative Curriculum and tailored to children's needs and interests.
• Communicate regularly with parents and family members through the Playground App about children's daily experiences.
• Use the CLASS method to foster positive adult-child interactions and help every child feel valued and supported.
• Support the education, health, welfare, and safety of classroom members and the center community by following ECERS/ITERS standards and protocols.

Benefits

• Employer-paid childcare for school-age children ages 3–12 enrolled in the program, on the days and during the hours the employee works.
• Telehealth coverage.
• Vision coverage.
• Dental coverage.
• AFLAC supplemental plans.
• 401(k) for eligible employees.
• Paid sick time.
• On-demand pay, providing access to earned wages before the scheduled payday.
• Career development and growth opportunities.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Part-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: High school or GED