Twos/Toddler Teacher - Chesapeake

Apple Tree Kids•Chesapeake, VA

About The Position

Apple Tree Learning Center is seeking a passionate, dependable, and nurturing Lead Preschool Teacher / Early Childhood Educator to provide high-quality care and education to young children. The teacher creates a safe, positive, engaging, and developmentally appropriate learning environment where children learn through meaningful interactions, hands-on experiences, play, and positive relationships. The role supports children's social, emotional, cognitive, language, and physical development and involves collaboration with families, classroom teachers, center management, and curriculum support staff.

Requirements

Passion for early childhood education and child development.
Warm, patient, dependable, and nurturing approach.
Energetic and enthusiastic about working with young children.
Creative and comfortable leading classroom activities.
Strong communication and teamwork skills.
Professional and reliable.
Comfortable working in a fast-paced childcare environment.
Commitment to maintaining a safe and positive learning environment.
Willingness to learn, grow, and participate in ongoing professional development.

Nice To Haves

Previous experience in a childcare center, preschool, daycare, pre-K, early childhood education, or Head Start program.
CDA, Associate's Degree, Bachelor's Degree, or coursework in Early Childhood Education, Child Development, Education, or a related field.
Experience with lesson planning, classroom management, developmental assessments, and family communication.
Knowledge of Virginia childcare licensing regulations.

Responsibilities

Create and maintain a safe, nurturing, and engaging classroom environment.
Plan and implement developmentally appropriate lesson plans and activities.
Provide hands-on learning experiences through play, exploration, art, music, movement, and literacy.
Support children's social-emotional development and positive behavior.
Build strong, positive relationships with children and families.
Maintain accurate classroom records, assessments, and documentation.
Follow curriculum guidelines and Virginia childcare licensing requirements.
Maintain a clean, organized, and inviting classroom.
Communicate regularly and professionally with parents and families.
Work collaboratively with classroom teachers, center management, and curriculum support staff.
Participate in professional development and ongoing training.
Supervise children at all times and maintain appropriate classroom ratios and safety standards.