Toddler/Preschool Teacher, Early Education
About The Position
The Educator cares for and educates young children aged 18 months to 5 years in a warm, nurturing environment. The role involves designing and maintaining an environment that stimulates curiosity and implementing a dynamic, emergent curriculum grounded in hands-on exploration and play and inspired by the Reggio-Emilia Approach. The Educator documents each child’s growth and learning, uses observation to inform reflective teaching and developmentally aligned learning experiences, and follows the California Foundations for Early Learning, NAEYC Developmentally Appropriate Practice, and the NAEYC Code of Ethical Conduct. The position is located in San Mateo, California. Compensation is $26.00–$34.00 per hour.
Requirements
- Prior experience working with children.
- High school diploma or equivalent.
- At least 12 college-level units in Early Childhood Education, including the core course required by licensing.
- Coursework in Child/Human Growth & Development, Child/Family & Community, and Programs/Curriculum.
Nice To Haves
- CPR/First Aid qualified.
- Mandated Reporter Certification, or completion within one month of hire.
Responsibilities
- Develop and plan developmentally appropriate curriculum that reflects children's needs, interests, and developmental stages.
- Create and maintain a safe, clean, and organized classroom environment that supports exploration, creativity, and problem-solving.
- Implement and maintain a nutritious snack program that promotes healthy eating habits.
- Observe each child and document developmental progress, using observations to guide curriculum and lesson planning.
- Provide a balance of child-initiated and teacher-initiated activities, including active and quiet learning opportunities.
- Plan and implement interest-based experiences and curriculum that support cultural diversity and children's physical, cognitive, and socio-emotional growth.
- Use Reggio-Emilia philosophy and play-based learning to facilitate a rich learning environment.
- Build positive relationships with families through daily updates, tools such as Brightwheel, and annual conferences about children's development.
- Welcome parent participation and provide resources and support to help families understand assessment results and child development.
- Maintain consistent routines that support transitions and encourage children's self-help skills and independence.
- Participate in team meetings, offer constructive feedback, and engage in professional development to support a collaborative and respectful workplace.
- Stay informed about licensing regulations and assist the director or assistant director with compliance efforts.
- Train and guide classroom aides, substitutes, and volunteers on their roles and classroom expectations.
- Assess classroom supplies and materials regularly and ensure items needed for planned activities are available in advance.
- Monitor and maintain the health and well-being of children in care.
- Assist with diapering, toilet learning, and hygiene practices, supporting children in developing positive hygiene habits and independence.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Entry Level
Education Level
High school or GED
