Assistant Teacher - Early Childhood

YMCA - Metuchen, NJ

Part-time - Entry Level

Metuchen, NJ

Social Assistance

About the position

The Assistant Teacher supports the Teachers and the Director in creating a caring and safe environment for children, assisting in activities that enhance the quality of education. This role involves communication, teamwork, and the implementation of developmentally appropriate activities based on children's interests and needs.

Responsibilities

• Ensure all health and safety guidelines are strictly adhered to.
• Assist in supervising the group of children during classroom experience, outdoor activities, and off-center outings.
• Engage with children in group play and outside activities.
• Assist with nap period duties, including setting out and replacing cots/mats/cribs and settling children.
• Identify child abuse and understand reporting requirements and responsibilities.
• Assist swim instructors and maintain staff:child ratio during swim lessons/activities.
• Utilize specific abilities or talents to enrich children's daycare experience.
• Assist with food service and clean up the eating area.
• Support the Y’s HEPA standards by participating in activities and avoiding inconsistent food consumption during program hours.
• Keep equipment and materials clean, accessible, and in good condition.
• Assist the teacher in maintaining an organized and neat classroom.
• Administer first aid and supervise children’s personal hygiene.
• Assist in medication administration under the direction of the classroom teacher.
• Assume responsibilities of the classroom teacher during her absence with support from the director.
• Prepare materials for daily activities.
• Complete daily paperwork needed to maintain state code.
• Assist in bathroom procedures, diapering, potty training, and hand washing.
• Attend staff meetings and contribute to discussions.
• Maintain current CPR & First Aid Certification and attend workshops during 'Center Shut Down'.
• Pursue other forms of professional training during the year.
• Emulate the four core values of the organization.
• Accurately record time worked using the provided time management system.

Requirements

• High school diploma or its equivalent.
• Previous child care experience or related experience.
• Some credits or classes in education or early childhood education are a plus.
• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal.
• Ability to work as part of a team.

Nice-to-haves

• Some credits or classes in education or early childhood education.

Benefits

• YMCA membership
• Flexible scheduling
• Fun, team-oriented workplace
• Professional development provided free to employee
• Encouragement of personal growth