JOLIET PARK DISTRICT is Hiring a Little Sprouts Instructor-Nature Center 2023-2024 School Year Near Joliet, IL
Program Description: The Little Sprouts Early Learning Center program is dedicated to bringing children and nature together. The program offers experiences typically found in child-centered learning centers; however, Little Sprouts focuses on daily interactions with nature, animals, and plant life. Research has found that children who spend more time in nature pay attention better, think more clearly, and are able to cope more effectively with stress. The nature curriculum is based on seasonal changes. Topics reflect current events in the natural world and provide the basis for daily outdoor discovery plus: creative arts, large & small motor skill development, math & manipulative activities, natural science exploration, language experiences and construction play.Little Sprouts is more appropriate for children whose families are looking for discovery-based learning rather than traditional lessons that are scheduled and confined by curriculum objectives. Natural themes and materials are incorporated throughout indoor and outdoor activities. Our program operates for nine months starting September and ending in early May. There are 2 instructors leading a maximum of 15 students aged 3-5 who must be potty-trained.Job SummaryUnder the direction and supervision of the Little Sprouts Director, the Instructor is responsible for all planning, implementation, and supervision of the day-to-day activities for pre-school aged students. Instructors are responsible for direct supervision of children and providing a safe and educational environment for them.Duties
Work with pre-school aged children daily
Create and implement pre-school appropriate curriculum
Create and implement curriculum for Little Sprouts
Represent the Little Sprouts program and Nature Center in public relations
Design and install displays in the Little Sprouts classroom
Maintain a clean, safe, and organized environment for children to learn and grow
Provide a variety of activities and materials that are age appropriate and relevant to young children
Hike trails with students in all types of weather and terrain
Attend all Little Sprouts and Nature Center staff meetings
Must be comfortable handling and talking about a variety of reptiles, amphibians, insects, etc.
Plan, organize, and participate in all Nature Center special events
Be willing to work some weekends
Perform other duties as assigned
Qualifications
Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite, including Word and Excel
Able to multi-task and still maintain a professional demeanor
Must hold current CPR/First Aid Certifications or be willing to gain these Certifications
Must be at least 18 years of age and hold at least a High School diploma
Must have experience with early-learning and an appreciation for the idea of children learning through nature
Must be prompt, responsible, friendly, and work well with other teachers, parents of students, etc. Customer service experience is key
Must be able to pass a background check
Physical Demands
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is required to stand; walk; sit; bend; kneel; use hands and fingers to handle or feel objects, tools, or controls; reach with hands and arms; climb stairs; talk or hear; taste and smell; and carry materials. The employee may occasionally lift or move up to 25 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by the job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception and the ability to adjust focus.
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
The Joliet Park District is an Equal Opportunity Employer.