Assistant Teacher (infant/toddler/pre-k)

Job Title: Assistant Teacher – Daycare Center

Location: Precious Kids Too of Merrick- 2220 Hewlett avenue, Merrick NY 11566.
Job Type: Full-time (8am-5pm)
Reports to: Lead Teacher / Director

About Us:

At Precious Kids Too, we are dedicated to providing a safe, nurturing, and educational environment for young children. We are a licensed daycare facility committed to adhering to all New York State Office of Children and Family Services (OCFS) regulations to ensure high-quality care and development for the children entrusted to us. We are currently seeking a compassionate, enthusiastic, and reliable Assistant Teacher to join our team and contribute to the growth and well-being of the children in our care.

Position Overview:

As an Assistant Teacher, you will play a critical role in supporting the Lead Teacher in implementing a dynamic and developmentally appropriate curriculum for children. You will assist with managing classroom activities, ensuring a safe and engaging environment, and supporting the individual needs of each child. The Assistant Teacher will also assist in maintaining compliance with OCFS regulations, promoting a positive learning environment, and upholding the cleanliness and sanitary standards of the daycare.

Team Collaboration & Work Environment:

We are looking for a team player who is friendly, approachable, and easy to work with. A positive attitude and the ability to build strong, supportive relationships with both colleagues and families is essential to creating a harmonious and productive work environment. You will be expected to contribute to a collaborative atmosphere, where open communication, respect, and teamwork are valued. Your ability to maintain a positive demeanor, even in challenging situations, will play a key role in fostering a nurturing, healthy, and supportive environment for both the children and the team.

Key Responsibilities:

• Assist the Lead Teacher in the development and implementation of age-appropriate lesson plans and activities.
• Provide a safe, clean, and organized classroom environment in accordance with OCFS standards.
• Supervise and interact with children, ensuring their safety, well-being, and emotional development.
• Assist in managing classroom behavior using positive reinforcement and age-appropriate guidance techniques.
• Help children with daily routines such as mealtime, bathroom breaks, nap time, and outdoor play.
• Monitor and report any concerns regarding a child’s behavior, health, or development to the Lead Teacher or Director.
• Communicate effectively with parents/guardians regarding children's progress, behavior, and needs.

Sanitation and Cleaning:

• Regularly clean and sanitize classroom surfaces, toys, and materials to ensure a safe and healthy environment for the children.
• Follow proper sanitation procedures in accordance with OCFS regulations to minimize the spread of germs and prevent illnesses.
• Clean and disinfect restrooms, including assisting children with washing hands and maintaining cleanliness throughout the day.
• Ensure that all toys, play areas, and learning materials are sanitized and in good condition.
• Assist with cleaning and sanitizing the outdoor play equipment and areas used by the children.
• PDispose of trash properly and ensure that all areas maintain a neat, sanitary, and organized appearance.

Administrative Support:

• Maintain accurate and up-to-date records, including attendance, health checks, and incident reports.
• Assist in maintaining required documentation in compliance with OCFS regulations (e.g., attendance, health and safety records, incident reports).
• Participate in staff meetings, professional development opportunities, and training as required by the daycare and OCFS.

Team Collaboration:

• Help in maintaining the cleanliness and organization of the classroom and outdoor play areas.
• Uphold and enforce the daycare’s policies and procedures, including those related to child health, safety, and security.

Qualifications:

• High School Diploma or equivalent; some college coursework in early childhood education preferred.
• At least 1 year of experience working with children in a daycare or educational setting (preferred but not required).
• Understanding of OCFS regulations and commitment to complying with them.
• First Aid and CPR certification (or willingness to obtain).
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Patience, enthusiasm, and a genuine passion for working with young children.
• Ability to work well as part of a team and take direction from the Lead Teacher and Director.
• Ability to lift and carry up to 40 lbs., bend, kneel, and engage in physical activities with children.
• A clean background check and proof of immunizations as required by OCFS.

Why Join Us?

At Precious Kids Too, we believe in creating a supportive and enriching work environment for our team. As an Assistant Teacher, you will have the opportunity to grow professionally, participate in training and development programs, and make a real impact in the lives of young children. We offer competitive pay, flexible schedules, and a welcoming team culture.

How to Apply:

If you are passionate about early childhood education and meet the qualifications listed above, we would love to hear from you. Please submit your resume and a brief cover letter outlining your interest in the position to Jbpreciouskids@gmail.com

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $16.50 - $20.00 per hour

Benefits:

• Paid time off

Schedule:

• 8 hour shift
• Monday to Friday

Work Location: In person

Salary : $17 - $20