2's Program Teaching Assistant - Full-Time

Job Title: Toddler Teaching Assistant
Department: Lower School
Reports To: Head of Lower
School Classification: Exempt; 10-Month Employee

Position Overview: The Rumson Country Day School is seeking an assistant teacher for our Toddler Program. In addition to relevant education and experience, this teaching assistant must evince a love of working with our youngest learners. Toddler Teaching Assistants are responsible for supporting the lead teacher in the toddler classroom by providing direct care to our youngest students, including assisting with daily activities like feeding, diapering, and playtime. A focus on child development, social/emotional growth and play based learning are equally important with a focus on supporting the cultivation of a safe and welcoming learning environment.

Key Responsibilities:

• Assist in providing individual and small-group instruction in order to adapt the curriculum to the needs of students' abilities.
• Assist in preparing the classroom for a lesson (e.g., setting up materials).
• Assist the classroom teacher in creating a learning environment (e.g. putting together displays of children’s work, decorating the classroom).
• Tidy up, sanitizing toys and play areas.
• Diapering and potty training.
• Feeding and providing individual attention to children who may need support.
• Conduct learning exercises with small groups of students.
• Support and supervise educational games, recess and craft activities.
• Provide extra support for children.
• Escort and assist the children during specials.
• Check students' work for compliance with teacher’s instructions.
• Assist in implementing all policies, rules and conduct.
• Perform assistance with tasks such as photocopying, laminating, attendance, etc.
• Perform related work as required.

Qualifications:
Experience: Prior experience working with toddlers in a childcare setting preferred.
Education: High school diploma or equivalent, with additional training in early childhood education preferred.
Child Development Knowledge: Understanding of typical toddler development stages and appropriate activities.
Patience and Empathy: Ability to provide calm and nurturing care to young children.
Physical Ability: Must Be able to lift up to 70 pounds and engage in physical activities with young children. Ability to lift and carry children, kneel, and play on the floor.
Communication Skills: Clear and effective verbal communication with children, parents, and colleagues.

Please submit a resume and cover letter to Head of Lower School Lea Prendergast at lprendergast@rcds.org.