Early Head Start Teacher

$37,960 - $43,160/Yr

Mid Florida Community Services - New Smyrna Beach, FL

Full-time - Entry Level

New Smyrna Beach, FL

About the position

The Early Head Start Teacher is responsible for the day-to-day operation and management of the classroom, guiding and directing learning experiences for infants, toddlers, and two-year-olds in a developmentally appropriate learning environment. The role emphasizes building strong relationships with children and their families, promoting parent-child bonding, and ensuring a safe and nurturing atmosphere for early childhood development.

Responsibilities

• Maintain an open, friendly, and cooperative relationship with each child and family.
• Encourage family involvement in the Early Head Start program.
• Promote feelings of security and trust in infants, toddlers, and two-year-olds.
• Greet children and parents warmly each morning and ensure a smooth transition into the learning environment.
• Engage with children through talking, singing, and reading throughout the day.
• Respond quickly and soothingly to children's cries or calls of distress.
• Implement individualized feeding plans and model good nutrition during family-style meals.
• Attend to children's personal hygiene needs, including diaper changing and feeding.
• Organize daily activities to provide individualized experiences that foster curiosity and creativity.
• Conduct developmental screenings and ongoing assessments of children.
• Complete timely and accurate documentation of screenings, assessments, and daily logs.
• Prepare and submit weekly developmental plans for each child based on their growth and needs.
• Maintain a safe, clean, and orderly caregiving environment.
• Model a positive attitude and calm demeanor for children and parents.
• Collaborate with other teachers and staff in planning and implementing activities.
• Utilize developmentally appropriate discipline techniques and protect children from physical punishment or verbal abuse.
• Observe children for signs of illness, injury, or special needs and report findings promptly.
• Plan activities for children with special needs and implement individual education plans as needed.
• Attend training opportunities and staff meetings as scheduled.
• Participate in community activities that enhance the Early Head Start program.

Requirements

• National CDA with Infant/Toddler Endorsement or FCCPC certification.
• Two years of experience in child education, care, and service or a related field.
• Valid Florida driver's license and insurable by the company's current carrier.
• First Aid and CPR certified.
• Ability to obtain a Director's Credential within 18 months of employment.

Nice-to-haves

• Experience working with children with special needs.
• Knowledge of early childhood education methods.
• Ability to establish effective working relationships with parents and children.

Benefits

• Competitive hourly wage of $18.25 - $20.75.
• Full-time employment with potential for career advancement.