Daycare - Toddler Assistant Teacher

As a Daycare - Toddler Assistant Teacher at Building Blocks Early Learning Center, your main responsibilities will include managing daily classroom activities, creating a supportive environment for toddlers, and implementing a curriculum that emphasizes social-emotional learning, STEAM exploration, and nature-based projects. You'll also communicate regularly with families to keep them involved in their child's education.

To become a Daycare - Toddler Assistant Teacher at Building Blocks Early Learning Center in Wilton, CT, you need to pass state and company background checks, hold a high school diploma or GED, and comply with all company policies and EEC regulations. Physical ability to engage with young children, including lifting up to 30 pounds, is also required.

Building Blocks Early Learning Center provides numerous opportunities for professional development, including ongoing coaching, access to a dedicated Child Conference, and potential pay increases related to job performance and certification updates. We are committed to the continuous growth and education of our staff.

At Building Blocks Early Learning Center, we value work-life balance and provide a generous time-off package, which includes a paid week off between Christmas and New Year’s, additional time off around the 4th of July, and federal holiday closures. We strive to create a supportive environment where educators can recharge and thrive.

A Daycare - Toddler Assistant Teacher at Building Blocks Early Learning Center can expect a comprehensive benefits package that includes health, dental, and vision coverage effective from the hire date, an employee referral program, and a 401(k) plan with company match after 60 days. We also offer discounts on child tuition and additional perks like pet insurance.

To effectively promote social-emotional learning in a daycare setting, I would focus on creating a warm and welcoming environment where children feel secure expressing their feelings. Implementing activities that encourage sharing, teamwork, and empathy, while also incorporating regular reflection time for children to express their emotions, will help foster that growth.

I would create a simple science experiment like 'color mixing' with safe materials. By using water, food coloring, and different containers, I can showcase how primary colors combine to form new ones. This hands-on activity not only captures their attention but also encourages them to ask questions and explore, fostering curiosity and critical thinking.

I prioritize open and consistent communication with parents by maintaining daily updates through communication apps, nurturing personal interactions during drop-off/pick-up, and hosting monthly meetings to discuss the child's development and any concerns. Transparency and a personal touch help build trust and collaboration.

When addressing challenging behavior in toddlers, I use positive reinforcement to encourage appropriate behavior, provide clear expectations, and redirect actions to safer alternatives. I also take the time to understand each child's triggers and provide individualized support, fostering a supportive environment for growth.

Nature-based learning is essential in my teaching approach as it allows children to connect with their environment, promoting curiosity and respect for nature. I would incorporate outdoor activities like gardening or nature walks, enabling hands-on exploration and learning through real-world experiences, supporting holistic development.

Incorporating play-based learning involves creating an engaging classroom with various thematic play stations that encourage exploration and creativity. By weaving lessons into play, such as counting during snack time or storytelling through puppet shows, I can make learning natural and enjoyable for the children.

Ensuring children's safety involves strict adherence to guidelines, conducting thorough daily checks of the play areas, supervising children effectively, and staying informed about safety procedures. Regular training on child safety protocols and maintaining open lines of communication with parents also play an important part in child well-being.

I engage parents by providing regular updates and inviting them to participate in classroom activities or parent-teacher conferences. Sharing children's progress through portfolios and asking for input on learning goals fosters a collaborative environment where parents feel valued and involved in their child's development.

Fostering teamwork among staff is crucial for a harmonious daycare environment. I promote collaboration through team meetings, encouraging open dialogue, sharing best practices, and celebrating each other's successes. Establishing team-building activities also helps strengthen bonds among colleagues.

I am drawn to the opportunity at Building Blocks Early Learning Center because of its commitment to innovative, child-focused learning and supportive community environment. I believe in the organization’s mission of prioritizing people and promoting positive growth, and I am excited to contribute to such an impactful institution.