Assistant teacher

POSITION OVERVIEW

We are seeking a caring, enthusiastic Assistant Daycare Teacher to support our Lead Teacher in providing high-quality care and education for young children. This is a wonderful opportunity to grow your skills in early childhood education while working in a nurturing, supportive environment.

ABOUT US

Growing Minds Bilingual Academy is a group family daycare committed to providing a nurturing, safe, and developmentally appropriate environment for young children. We believe in fostering curiosity, creativity, and a love of learning through play-based, child-centered experiences. Walking distance to Tibbetts Brook Park, our location offers wonderful opportunities for outdoor exploration and nature-based learning.

IDEAL CANDIDATE

This role requires patience, kindness, and a nurturing spirit.

We're looking for someone who:

• Has a deep, genuine love for children and their development
• Is patient, kind, and naturally nurturing
• Enjoys having conversations and engaging with young children all day
• Pays close attention to children's safety and needs
• Finds joy in supporting children's learning and growth
• Is eager to learn from experienced educators
• Is reliable, responsible, and professional
• Has a positive, can-do attitude

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Supporting the Lead Teacher

• Assist Lead Teacher with planning and implementing daily activities and lesson plans
• Support Lead Teacher during parent-teacher conferences by providing observations and insights
• Help prepare classroom materials and learning centers
• Follow the Lead Teacher's guidance on classroom routines and schedules
• Collaborate with Lead Teacher to create a positive learning environment
• Step in to lead activities when Lead Teacher is with individual children or families

Direct Child Care & Supervision

• Provide competent, attentive supervision of children at all times
• Ensure the safety and well-being of all children throughout the day
• Engage in active, meaningful conversations with children throughout daily activities
• Encourage children's language development through responsive interactions
• Change diapers and assist with toileting following proper hygiene protocols
• Help children with hand washing, meals, and self-care routines
• Implement positive guidance strategies under Lead Teacher's direction
• Comfort upset or distressed children with patience and kindness
• Monitor children during indoor and outdoor play

Classroom Support & Environment

• Assist with light meal preparation and serving snacks and meals
• Help set up and clean up activity areas throughout the day
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe classroom environment
• Sanitize toys, surfaces, and materials according to health protocols
• Help create and maintain classroom bulletin boards and displays
• Assist with arranging furniture and materials to support learning
• Ensure classroom supplies are stocked and organized

Documentation & Administrative Support

• Help maintain daily attendance records
• Assist with keeping children's files organized and updated
• Complete incident/accident reports when needed
• Document children's activities and developmental observations
• Help prepare classroom for inspections (OCFS, Department of Health)
• Maintain confidentiality of all child and family information

Family Communication & Tours

• Greet families warmly during drop-off and pick-up
• Communicate with parents about their child's day
• Assist with tours for prospective families when needed
• Build positive, respectful relationships with all families
• Support family engagement activities and events

Professional Development & Compliance

• Participate in staff meetings and training sessions
• Maintain Aspire Registry account with current training hours
• Complete required professional development hours
• Follow all NYS OCFS regulations and program policies
• Work collaboratively as part of the teaching team

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONSEducation & Credentials

• High school diploma or GED (required)
• CDA (Child Development Associate) credential (strongly preferred)
• Valid NYS OCFS background check clearance (will be completed upon hire)
• Current pediatric CPR and First Aid certification (or willingness to obtain within 30 days)
• Completion of 15-hour Health and Safety training (or willingness to complete upon hire)

WHAT WE OFFER

Compensation & Benefits

• Competitive hourly rate: $16.50/hour (NY State Minimum Wage)
• Paid sick days (in accordance with NY State Paid Sick Leave Law)
• Paid holidays including major holidays
• Paid time off (PTO) that accumulates based on hours worked
• 401(k) retirement plan (details available upon hire)
• Professional development opportunities including training reimbursement and paid time for workshops/conferences
• Mentorship and on-the-job training from experienced early childhood professionals
• Supportive, collaborative work environment
• Work-life balance - We respect your time outside of work
• Opportunities for growth and advancement - potential to advance to Lead Teacher with additional training/credentials

HOW TO APPLY

Interested candidates should submit:

• Resume highlighting any experience with children (paid or volunteer)
• Cover letter highlighting your experience working with children.
• References (at least 2 professional or character references)

Send application materials to:

Email: [email protected]

Subject Line: Assistant Daycare Teacher Application

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $16.50 per hour

Benefits:

• Flexible schedule
• Paid time off
• Professional development assistance
• Retirement plan

Work Location: In person