EC Teacher Assistant -PT

Job Purpose:

• The EC Teacher Assistant at the YMCA of Metropolitan Chicago is responsible for supporting the Early Childhood Education program by assisting lead teachers in creating a nurturing and stimulating environment for young children. This role involves collaborating with educators to implement age-appropriate curriculum and activities that promote the physical, social, emotional, and intellectual development of children. The Teacher Assistant is dedicated to fostering a safe and inclusive atmosphere that encourages children to explore, learn, and grow.

Key Responsibilities:

• Assist lead teachers in planning and executing educational activities that align with the curriculum and meet the developmental needs of children.
• Support classroom management by maintaining a clean, organized, and safe learning environment.
• Engage with children during activities, encouraging participation and providing individualized attention as needed.
• Monitor and document children's progress and behavior, communicating observations to lead teachers and parents.
• Help prepare instructional materials and set up equipment for daily activities.
• Collaborate with lead teachers to address the diverse needs of children, including those with special requirements.
• Participate in staff meetings and professional development sessions to stay informed about best practices in early childhood education.
• Ensure compliance with YMCA policies, state regulations, and safety standards.
• Foster positive relationships with children, parents, and colleagues to create a supportive community atmosphere.
• Assist in organizing and supervising field trips and special events, ensuring children's safety and engagement.
• Provide feedback and suggestions to improve program quality and effectiveness.

Required Education:

• High School Diploma or equivalent is required.
• An Associate's Degree in Early Childhood Education or a related field is preferred.

Required Experience:

• At least one year of experience working with children in an educational or childcare setting.
• Experience in implementing educational activities that promote children's cognitive, social, and emotional development.
• Familiarity with early childhood education curriculum and teaching strategies.

Required Skills and Abilities:

• Strong communication skills to effectively interact with children, parents, and staff.
• Ability to assist in planning and executing age-appropriate activities and lessons.
• Demonstrated patience, creativity, and enthusiasm in engaging young children.
• Capability to work collaboratively in a team environment, supporting lead teachers and other staff.
• Proficient in maintaining a safe and nurturing environment for children.
• Basic understanding of child development principles and practices.
• Ability to adapt to the dynamic needs of a classroom and manage multiple tasks efficiently.
• Competence in maintaining records and documentation as required by the program.
• CPR and First Aid certification are preferred or willingness to obtain upon hire.

Required Education:

• High School Diploma or equivalent is required.
• An Associate's Degree in Early Childhood Education or a related field is preferred.

Required Experience:

• At least one year of experience working with children in an educational or childcare setting.
• Experience in implementing educational activities that promote children's cognitive, social, and emotional development.
• Familiarity with early childhood education curriculum and teaching strategies.

Required Skills and Abilities:

• Strong communication skills to effectively interact with children, parents, and staff.
• Ability to assist in planning and executing age-appropriate activities and lessons.
• Demonstrated patience, creativity, and enthusiasm in engaging young children.
• Capability to work collaboratively in a team environment, supporting lead teachers and other staff.
• Proficient in maintaining a safe and nurturing environment for children.
• Basic understanding of child development principles and practices.
• Ability to adapt to the dynamic needs of a classroom and manage multiple tasks efficiently.
• Competence in maintaining records and documentation as required by the program.
• CPR and First Aid certification are preferred or willingness to obtain upon hire.