Special Needs Teacher Assistant

Dr. Day Care•East Greenwich, RI

1d•Onsite

About The Position

This is a full-time opportunity, with full-time hours typically ranging from 35 to 37 hours per week. All employees are eligible for benefits if they work at least 30 hours per week. Part-time availability may be considered for the right candidate. The role involves working alongside a team of teachers to create a safe, healthy, structured, and welcoming environment for children to grow and learn. Key responsibilities include engaging children in learning through reading, playing, and fun activities, inspiring them to become lifelong learners, and partnering with families. The position requires using an electronic daily tracking app, assisting with the accreditation process and other quality initiatives, and supporting the Therapeutic Child Care Services (TCCS) special needs inclusion program. A significant part of the role involves working with Clinicians to provide an appropriate learning environment and activities for children with special needs, especially those with behaviorally challenging behaviors. The goal is to assist children in achieving their individual goals outlined in their behavior plans while integrating them with typically developing peers.

Requirements

Experience working with special needs children or children with challenging behaviors.
A personal demeanor that is warm and friendly.
Verbal and written communication skills.
Reliable attendance and punctuality.
Organized and able to prioritize and multi-task.
Team-oriented and willing to work with others.
Minimum of High school diploma (or equivalent) with college credits in Early Childhood Education or related field required.
At least 2 years working in an early learning/child care center.
Must have experience with special needs students, particularly with de-escalating behavior challenges.
Able to engage in physical exercise with children (walking, running, crawling, bending, twisting).
Visual and hearing acuity.
Able to lift up to 40 pounds.
19 years of age or older.
Able to read, write, speak and understand English.
Must pass national criminal background/fingerprints check.
Must pass Department of Children, Youth and Families (DCYF) Clearance Request (CPS).

Nice To Haves

College credits, Child Development Associate (CDA) credential, Associate’s degree, or higher in Early Childhood Education or related field preferred.
Rhode Island Early Learning and Development Standards (RIELDS) certification preferred.
Knowledge of Teaching Strategies and/or Conscious Discipline preferred.
CPR/First Aid certification preferred.
Bilingual encouraged to apply.

Responsibilities

Working alongside a team of teachers to provide a safe, healthy, structured, and welcoming space to grow and learn.
Engaging with children in learning - reading, playing, and having fun!
Inspiring children to be lifelong learners.
Partnering with families to nurture and care for their children.
Showcasing tech savvy skills by using an electronic daily tracking app.
Assisting with the accreditation process as well as other quality initiatives.
Supporting our Therapeutic Child Care Services (TCCS) special needs inclusion program.
Working alongside Clinicians to provide an appropriate learning environment and activities for children with special needs, particularly behaviorally challenging children.
Assisting children to become successful in meeting their individual goals outlined in their behavior plans, while integrated with typically developing peers.