Child Care - Lead Toddler Teacher

To qualify for the Lead Toddler Teacher position at Heartworks Early Education, you should comply with all Vermont Public Health and Child Care Regulations and meet at least one of several qualifications. These include having a Vermont Early Childhood Career Ladder Level 1 or 2 Certificate, a current Child Development Associate (CDA) credential, or other relevant education in child development. Additionally, you must have at least 12 months of experience working with children in grade three or younger, and a clean background check is essential.

As a Lead Toddler Teacher at Heartworks Early Education, your primary responsibility will be to manage classroom needs while fostering a nurturing learning environment for toddlers. You will engage children in social-emotional, STEAM, and nature-based activities designed to cultivate a love of learning. Regular communication with families is essential, as partnering with parents helps support the growth and well-being of the children you teach.

Heartworks Early Education offers an extensive benefits package for Lead Toddler Teachers, which includes up to 75% discount on your child's tuition, health benefits effective from day one, and a generous time-off policy that includes paid holidays and seasonal breaks. Additionally, you'll have access to 24/7 virtual doctor visits, a 401(k) plan with company match, and opportunities for career advancement and professional development. There are financial incentives linked to job performance and educational achievements as well.

At Heartworks Early Education, we are committed to your growth as an educator. We offer numerous professional development opportunities, including career advancement coaching, attendance at dedicated Child Conferences, and regular assessments to help cultivate your skills. This commitment reflects our passion for continuous learning and ensuring that our Lead Toddler Teachers feel valued and supported in their careers.

The work environment at Heartworks Early Education is built on the pillars of teamwork, equity, and collaboration. As a Lead Toddler Teacher, you will join a thriving community of passionate educators under the guidance of a highly experienced School Director. We prioritize a culture that not only supports children's growth but also prioritizes the well-being and professional fulfillment of our teachers, ensuring an inspiring and supportive atmosphere.

When crafting a lesson plan for toddlers, I'd focus on a child-centered approach that accommodates their developmental stage. Incorporating social-emotional activities, STEAM components, and nature-based learning ensures children are engaged. I would also consider multi-sensory activities that encourage exploration and foster a love for learning. Clear objectives tied to child outcomes would guide my planning.

Effective communication with parents is vital in my role. I would establish regular updates through newsletters, parent-teacher conferences, and daily reports, as well as encourage open dialogue whenever parents have questions or concerns. I believe in fostering strong partnerships with families to support children’s learning and development.

One challenging situation I encountered was managing a conflict between toddlers over shared toys. I addressed the situation by guiding the children in identifying their feelings and facilitating a solution that allowed them to take turns. This not only resolved the issue but also taught the children important social skills and empathy.

My philosophy is centered on fostering a nurturing and inclusive environment where children learn through exploration and play. Every child is unique and should be encouraged to engage at their own pace, with the educator's role being one of a facilitator who supports, guides, and nurtures their curiosity and creativity.

I value parents' feedback immensely and actively seek it through regular check-ins and surveys. Incorporating their insights helps me tailor my teaching practices to better meet the needs of their children, ensuring a more comprehensive educational experience.

Assessment is crucial in understanding each child’s development and learning style. I utilize ongoing informal assessments through observations to tailor my teaching approaches. This also supports individualized learning plans that cater to each child's unique needs, promoting their growth at their own pace.

To ensure a safe and inclusive environment, I would establish clear expectations for behavior while integrating activities that promote diversity and inclusion. Regularly checking the physical environment is also vital to eliminate any hazards and provide spaces where all children feel secure and valued.

To motivate reluctant children, I would focus on creating engaging and playful activities that align with their interests. Providing options and allowing for choice encourages participation. Positive reinforcement and celebrating small successes also help build their confidence to join in activities.

Handling behavioral issues requires patience and understanding. I implement consistent behavior management strategies that focus on prevention and positive reinforcement. When issues arise, I address them calmly, seeking to understand the underlying needs of the child while providing guidance and support to navigate their emotions.

One successful project involved a nature scavenger hunt that integrated learning about the environment. Children actively participated by searching for items such as leaves and rocks, which sparked their creativity as they used the materials for art projects afterward. This project combined physical activity with exploration and creativity, reinforcing their connection to nature.