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.
Adaptability & Coverage Fill classroom gaps: Step into rooms instantly when teachers take breaks, lunches, or planning time.
Shift age groups:
Move smoothly between infant, toddler, and preschool rooms multiple times a day.
Adopt classroom routines:
Follow each lead teacher's specific schedule, rules, and daily rhythm accurately.
Manage transition times:
Keep children calm and engaged while moving them between the classroom, playground, and cafeteria. Safety & Supervision Maintain active supervision: Watch children constantly, positioning yourself to see the entire room or play area.
Enforce safety rules:
Stop unsafe behaviors gently but firmly to prevent accidents and injuries.
Count children frequently:
Conduct regular headcounts, especially when entering or leaving a classroom or playground.
Monitor room ratios:
Ensure the classroom never exceeds the legally mandated state child-to-staff ratio. Care, Hygiene & Sanitization Assist with diapering/toileting: Follow strict health protocols for diaper changes and bathroom transitions.
Supervise handwashing:
Ensure children wash hands thoroughly before meals, after playground time, and after restroom use.
Sanitize high-touch zones:
Wipe down toys, tables, counters, and high chairs throughout the day using approved cleaners.
Manage mealtime clean-up:
Set up food trays, assist children with eating, and clean up spills immediately. Instructional & Emotional Support Lead small groups: Run circle time, read stories, or lead craft projects when requested by the lead teacher.
Comfort distressed children:
Soothe children experiencing separation anxiety, tantrums, or fatigue with patience and empathy.
Support positive behavior:
Use the daycare's approved positive discipline techniques to redirect challenging behaviors.
Engage in active play:
Get down on the floor to play, build, and interact directly with the children. Communication & Operations Relay student updates: Pass important behavioral or health notes accurately to the lead teacher or parents.
Report maintenance issues:
Inform management immediately about broken toys, safety hazards, or low cleaning supplies.
Document incidents:
Complete injury or incident reports promptly and accurately, following daycare policy. .
Pay:
$13.00 - $20.00 per hour
Benefits:
Employee discount Flexible schedule Health insurance
