Early Childhood Learning Teacher Assistant

HEALTHY KIDS PROGRAMS • City of Poughkeepsie, NY

3d • 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, encourages curiosity, creativity, and confidence, and helps provide exceptional care in a safe, supportive classroom environment. The position is especially suited to people seeking hands-on experience with children, including education majors and future teachers, parents seeking a schedule that aligns with the school day, and retirees who enjoy mentoring children.

The position is listed as non-exempt, with hours of 6:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. and pay of $16.00 per hour. Healthy Kids Programs is a certified Benefit Corporation that operates 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

• Enjoys working with children and helping them learn through play and positive experiences.
• Brings energy, kindness, and patience to each day.
• Enjoys encouraging children's curiosity, creativity, and confidence.
• Works well with teammates and communicates effectively with families.
• Reliable, organized, and committed to providing exceptional care.
• Hands-on experience with children and classroom management may suit education majors or future teachers.
• Interest in mentoring children and giving back to the community may suit retirees.

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 their child's daily experiences.
• Cultivate positive adult-child interactions using the CLASS method so every child feels 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 allowing 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