A Preschool or Childcare Teacher works with young children, usually ages 3 - 5, to help them learn the social, motor and language skills needed to be ready for kindergarten and elementary school. Organizes activities and uses play or games to help children learn; develops schedules and routines for children that include exercise and rest. Works in a school or in a childcare center or program.
Educational Director/Site Director Position Summary The Preschool Gym Teacher is responsible for planning and implementing developmentally appropriate physical education lessons for children ages 2-5. The teacher creates a safe, engaging, and inclusive environment that promotes physical fitness, teamwork, motor development, and social-emotional growth through structured movement activities. Essential Responsibilities Plan and implement age-appropriate physical education lessons aligned with early childhood developmental milestones. Teach fundamental movement skills, including: Running Jumping Hopping Throwing and catching Kicking Balancing Climbing Coordination activities Organize games that encourage teamwork, cooperation, and sportsmanship. Promote healthy lifestyles and the importance of daily physical activity. Adapt activities to meet the needs of children with varying abilities, including those with IEPs or developmental delays. Ensure all equipment is safe, clean, and developmentally appropriate. Supervise children at all times while maintaining a safe learning environment. Incorporate music, dance, obstacle courses, yoga, stretching, and movement activities into lessons. Collaborate with classroom teachers to reinforce classroom themes through movement. Observe and document children's gross motor development when requested. Communicate professionally with staff and families regarding children's progress and participation. Participate in staff meetings, professional development, and school events. Qualifications Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Physical Education, Early Childhood Education, Recreation, or a related field preferred. Experience working with children ages 2-5 preferred. CPR and First Aid certification (or willingness to obtain). Knowledge of child development and developmentally appropriate practices. Strong classroom management and communication skills. Skills Positive and energetic personality Creativity in lesson planning Ability to motivate young learners Patience and flexibility Strong organizational skills Commitment to inclusion and child safety Physical Requirements Ability to stand, bend, kneel, run, and actively participate in physical activities throughout the day. Ability to lift up to 40 pounds when necessary. Ability to move and demonstrate physical activities safely. Sample Weekly Activities Obstacle courses Bean bag toss Balance challenges Parachute games Basketball dribbling and shooting Dance and movement Yoga and mindfulness Relay races Animal walks Fitness circuits Cooperative games Learning Goals By the end of the school year, children should demonstrate growth in: Gross motor coordination Balance and body awareness Strength and endurance Hand-eye and foot-eye coordination Following multi-step directions Teamwork and cooperation Self-confidence during physical activities Understanding healthy habits and active lifestyles This position should emphasize that physical education in preschool is about building foundational movement skills, confidence, and a lifelong enjoyment of physical activity rather than competitive sports. Activities should remain play-based, engaging, and developmentally appropriate for young learners.
