Daycare Teacher Assistant

JOB SUMMARY

Works as a team with the Teacher in planning and carrying out the day-to-day activities of the classroom to support meeting the educational needs of program eligible infants and toddlers. Trains to become knowledgeable of all Early Head Start (ACF) Policies, performance standards, and CAA procedures.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Learn proper classroom teaching techniques through training and observation to become proficient in an early childhood classroom environment.Assists with the guidance of classroom activities by choosing or designing appropriate materials, answering questions, guiding discussions, and using guidance techniques that build independence.

Assists with housekeeping tasks such as attendance records, meal census, lunch and snack routines, diaper-changing, bathroom and tooth-brushing routines, and group activities in the classroom.

Initially observe the recording of ongoing assessments of each childs growth and development to assume responsibility for the assessment and development of assigned children.

Must become knowledgeable and work toward proficiency in all areas of screening and assessments including the overall curriculum and the E-LAP instrument.

Participates with other staff members in the accomplishment of other ongoing center activities such as recruitment, volunteer orientation, placement, planning special events, and substituting in other classrooms as needed.

Works with the Teacher in identifying the needs of each family in the areas of health, nutrition, and social services. Participates in the team approach with the Family Advocate to make appropriate written referrals and ensure necessary follow-up.

Follows written lesson plans and class schedule. Also learns to and writes lesson plans.

Coordinates with the Family Advocate with the completion of all necessary forms required for health, nutrition, and social service.

Trains to assist the Teacher in the development of plans, emphasizing the parent as the prime educator of their child. Trains on the use of information contained in medical, family, and child records.

Coordinates with the Teacher in developing a parent/teacher team approach in planning activities to meet the childs needs. Trains to make home visits and to conduct parent/teacher conferences. Attends parent meetings, etc. Trains to become proficient in recording all contacts on Contact Record in family folders, coordinating with the Family Advocate.

Performs other related duties as required.

WORKING CONDITIONS

Work is performed in a licensed childcare facility with children ages from one to twelve years of age, most of the children are between the ages of six weeks and three years. Activities are performed in all areas of the building including the classroom, restrooms, cafeteria (if separate from the classroom), and on the playground. Activities are not limited to the center but will include field trips to child-oriented activities. Must be mobile and agile to perform required tasks such as lifting up to forty-five (45) pounds, reaching above the head and below the knee, or positioning the body as to be on the childs level and floor level. Must be able to bend, stoop, kneel, crouch, and able to run or walk hurriedly for a childs safety.

QUALIFICATIONS REQUIRED

High school or GED graduate.

One year of experience in working with preschool-age children. Volunteer services in a Head Start program may be credited.

Have no physical restrictions that would preclude working with infants and toddlers.

Must meet all applicable requirements established by state and funding sources including fingerprinting.

Have transportation available and a valid Oklahoma State drivers license.

Ability to work with diverse cultures.

Meet required Work Environment standards

DESIRED

Current CDA or Certificate of Mastery in Infant/Toddler OR be willing to obtain a CDA or Certificate of Mastery in Infant/Toddler within one year from the date of hire.

SUPERVISION

Reports to: Head Start Center Director

Supervises: None assigned

Coordinates with: Head Start Staff