Early Childhood Specialist - Phoenix, AZ

A New Leaf•Phoenix, AZ

12d•Onsite

About The Position

The Early Childhood Specialist works in a licensed childcare setting in Phoenix, Arizona, supporting children’s development through assessment, curriculum planning, classroom instruction, positive behavior management, and family communication. The role uses Construct Curriculum and Teaching for documentation, portfolios, and assessment, and plans developmentally appropriate activities that promote growth across all areas of development. The specialist creates a positive, respectful classroom climate, supports children’s autonomy and expression, and maintains productive learning time through consistent routines, choices, and effective instructional formats. The role also establishes ongoing information-sharing about each child and communicates with families about classroom activities, events, engagement opportunities, and children’s progress and needs.

Requirements

High school graduate or GED.
Child Development Associate (CDA) credential.
At least one year of work experience in a licensed childcare setting.
Class One Fingerprint Clearance Card.
DCS Background Check clearance.
Law enforcement record clear of any misdemeanor or felony conviction.
Negative TB test before hire and compliance with state immunization regulations.
CPR and First Aid certification.
Food Handler’s Certification.
Must be at least 18 years of age.

Nice To Haves

Associate degree in Early Childhood Education or a related field, or a bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood, preferred.
Two years of childcare experience, preferred.
Experience working with at-risk children and/or children with special needs, preferred.
Bilingual in English and Spanish, preferred but not required.

Responsibilities

Complete screenings and developmental assessments for each child, including Construct, ASQ, and DECA.
Use Construct Curriculum for lesson planning and Teaching for documentation, portfolios, and assessment.
Plan developmentally appropriate activities that promote growth in all areas of development.
Allow curriculum to emerge from children’s interests and engage children in activities that continue over time.
Provide a positive classroom climate through positive relationships, affect, communication, and respect.
Show teacher sensitivity and regard for children’s perspectives while supporting their autonomy and expression.
Implement proactive behavior management using clear expectations, redirection, and attention to positive behavior.
Maximize learning time by offering choices, maintaining consistent routines, and eliminating unnecessary transitions.
Use instructional learning formats that include effective facilitation, variety, student interest, and clear learning objectives.
Facilitate concept development through analysis, reasoning, creativity, integration, and real-world connections.
Establish an ongoing system for exchanging information about each child.
Communicate with families about and design classroom activities, upcoming events, and ways to become engaged.
Meet with parents to discuss children’s progress and needs as needed and at least three times per year.