Early Head Start Teacher

About This Role

The Early Head Start Teacher is responsible for creating a nurturing, responsive, and developmentally appropriate environment for infants and toddlers, aligning with Head Start standards and an Integrated Approach. This role focuses on individualized learning experiences to support each child’s growth across various developmental domains. The teacher collaborates with families, maintains assessment records, and ensures health and safety standards in the classroom.

Responsibilities

• Create a safe, engaging, and developmentally appropriate environment by preparing materials and arranging physical space for infants and toddlers.
• Plan and deliver a comprehensive child development program using the Integrated Approach, incorporating Head Start content areas.
• Serve as the primary caregiver for a small group of infants or toddlers, providing consistent, nurturing care and developmentally appropriate interactions.
• Model best practices in caregiving and early learning for co-workers, supporting a positive, collaborative team culture.
• Use developmentally appropriate strategies to support each child’s social, emotional, physical, and cognitive growth.
• Observe and assess children regularly for developmental milestones, safety, and well-being; maintain accurate documentation and child assessment records.
• Collaborate in planning, assessing, and evaluating classroom activities, curriculum, and center-wide initiatives.
• Build strong, ongoing relationships with families, including conducting home visits and parent-teacher conferences.
• Support the development and maintenance of Individual Activity Designs (IADs) and educational resource materials.
• Supervise and guide daily routines, including meals, toileting, handwashing, rest time, and structured/unstructured play.
• Provide direction to teacher assistants and volunteers, fostering a supportive and effective team environment.
• Maintain a clean, safe, and sanitary classroom in accordance with health and safety guidelines.
• Actively participate in professional development, including staff meetings, in-service trainings, and workshops.

Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent with a current Infant/Toddler CDA or an Associate’s degree in Child Development or Early Childhood Education
• Valid health card
• Minimum of two years' experience in a licensed or formal childcare setting
• Strong understanding of child and human development
• Effective verbal and listening (receptive) communication skills
• Proven ability to build and maintain positive, respectful relationships with children, families, and team members
• Demonstrated ability to engage with infants in a warm, patient, and responsive manner
• Pass pre-employment and/or periodic physical exam
• Annual TB screening
• Background check every 24 months

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent with a current Infant/Toddler CDA or an Associate’s degree in Child Development or Early Childhood Education
• Minimum of two years' experience in a licensed or formal childcare setting.

Certifications