Lead Teacher- Toddler

JCCs of North America • Vestal, NY

77d • $18

About The Position

An exciting opportunity awaits as a full-time Lead Toddler Teacher at the Binghamton JCC! The Lead Toddler Teacher plays a crucial role in guiding the day-to-day care, development, and education of our curious and energetic toddlers. We are seeking a nurturing, knowledgeable, and compassionate individual who is dedicated to creating a safe, engaging, and stimulating learning environment for toddlers. The successful candidate will lead the development and implementation of a high-quality toddler program that aligns with the goals and values of the school. The Lead Teacher will provide leadership, plan engaging activities, and foster a love of learning in toddlers while supporting the Early Childhood Education Program's philosophy and the mission of the Jewish Community Center.

Requirements

• Must be at least 18 years of age.
• Associate's degree in Early Childhood or a related field, CDA, or at least 9 Early Childhood credits.
• Experience in working with toddlers or young children in an early childhood setting desired.
• Strong understanding of toddler development and developmentally appropriate practices.
• Ability to work well with toddlers, parents, teachers, and administration.
• Patience, compassion, and a genuine love for leading a team that works with toddlers.
• Ability to lift and carry a toddler up to 45 pounds when necessary.
• Ability to sit on low chairs or the floor to engage with toddlers at their level.

Responsibilities

• Overseeing all aspects of the toddler care program under the guidance of the Early Childhood Education Director.
• Planning activities that promote toddlers' social, physical, emotional, and cognitive development.
• Creating a secure, warm, and nurturing environment that fosters toddlers' growth, exploration, and independence.
• Responding sensitively to toddlers' needs and behaviors, using positive language and guidance techniques.
• Planning and implementing a developmentally appropriate curriculum that includes structured and unstructured play, language enrichment, creative arts, motor development, and social-emotional learning.
• Maintaining proactive, open communication with families about their child's progress, daily activities, and milestones.
• Ensuring adherence to ethical standards and guidelines set by the Office of Children and Family Services.
• Leading and mentoring teaching assistants with professionalism, offering guidance and feedback.
• Promoting a classroom culture that encourages curiosity, interaction, empathy, independence, and responsibility.
• Participating in ongoing training and professional development.
• Maintaining accurate records of each child's development and other required documentation.
• Overseeing daily routines, including snack times, naps, and toileting/diapering.
• Planning, organizing, and leading engaging and developmentally appropriate activities.
• Observing and documenting toddlers' progress, creating individualized plans.
• Effectively communicating in oral and written English with staff, families, and other caregivers.
• Lifting and carrying toddlers up to 45 pounds as necessary.
• Participating in active physical activities with toddlers.
• Maintaining cleanliness, organization, and safety of toddler areas.
• Meeting New York State DCC Licensing Regulations and upholding standards for NAEYC accreditation.
• Completing a minimum of 15 hours of additional training per year.
• Participating in and supporting all childcare responsibilities and other JCC activities as assigned.

Benefits

• $18/hour with a 40-hour work week.
• Comprehensive benefits package.
• Opportunities for professional growth and development within a dynamic organization.
• A collaborative and inclusive work environment that values diversity and respect.
• Access to JCC facilities and programs for employees and their families.
• Discounts on JCC offerings such as personal training, swim lessons, preschool, and camp.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Industry: Religious, Grantmaking, Civic, Professional, and Similar Organizations
• Education Level: Associate degree