Lead Toddler Teacher- NY

Children of America•Smithtown, NY

22h

About The Position

Children of America (COA), a nationally accredited preschool with more than 65 locations across 18 states, is hiring a Lead Toddler Teacher. The role works daily with children, parents, management, and teaching staff to support a collaborative, positive learning environment. The teacher leads classroom instruction using COA’s Mind and Body Matters curriculum and helps provide a safe, structured, and engaging setting for children. The position involves carrying out daily lesson plans, communicating with families and colleagues, and using technology to document and share children’s progress. The teacher is expected to respond empathetically to children’s emotions and parents’ needs, set age-appropriate expectations, and demonstrate creativity, passion, and engagement. COA emphasizes accountability, collaboration, a growth mindset, integrity, and consistency. The position requires a CDA or 12 college credits in Early Childhood Education, at least one year of experience in a licensed childcare setting, CPR and First Aid certification, and compliance with all state licensing requirements. The hourly rate is $20.00–$25.00, with final compensation based on experience, skills, location, and internal equity. The role may also be eligible for performance-based incentives or other benefits. Offers are contingent on a successful background check and submission of required state documents.

Requirements

CDA or 12 college credits in Early Childhood Education.
At least one year of experience in a licensed childcare setting.
CPR and First Aid certification.
Meet all state licensing requirements.
Strong organizational and decision-making skills.
Ability to build positive relationships with children, families, and staff.
Flexibility and adaptability in challenging situations.
Commitment to professional growth.
Successful background check and submission of required state documents as conditions of employment.

Responsibilities

Carry out daily lesson plans.
Help create a safe, structured, and positive learning environment.
Communicate professionally with parents, children, and team members.
Use technology to document and deliver child progress reports.
Show empathy toward children’s emotions and parents’ needs.
Set age-appropriate expectations for children.
Lead classroom instruction using COA’s Mind and Body Matters curriculum.
Collaborate with children, parents, management, and teaching staff to support a positive learning environment.