Job Summary Little Lotus Preschool is looking for a warm, dependable, and enthusiastic Lead Toddler Teacher to guide our classroom of 3-year-olds. Little Lotus is a small, nature-inspired, play-based preschool where we believe children learn best through relationships, exploration, movement, creativity, and meaningful play . We are looking for a teacher who genuinely enjoys this wonderfully busy age and understands that three-year-olds are learning much more than letters and numbers—they are learning how to communicate, regulate their emotions, become independent, build friendships, solve problems, and understand their world. What You'll Do As the Lead Teacher, you will take ownership of creating a safe, engaging, predictable, and joyful classroom environment.

Responsibilities include:

Building warm, responsive relationships with each child Creating a classroom culture where children feel safe, respected, included, and loved Implementing developmentally appropriate, play-based learning experiences Incorporating nature, sensory exploration, art, music, movement, books, science, and open-ended materials into the children's day Supporting social-emotional development through positive guidance, co-regulation, modeling, and age-appropriate boundaries Encouraging independence with toileting, handwashing, meals, dressing, cleanup, and classroom routines Supporting language development and early literacy and math skills naturally through play and conversation Providing active supervision indoors and outdoors Maintaining consistent classroom routines while remaining flexible to children's individual needs Observing children's development and communicating meaningful information with families Completing classroom documentation and daily communication Working collaboratively with assistant teachers, floaters, administration, and other classrooms Maintaining a clean, organized, welcoming classroom Following Texas Child Care Minimum Standards and Little Lotus health, safety, supervision, and guidance policies The Teacher We're Looking For Our ideal teacher is someone who: Truly enjoys working with young children Understands that behavior is communication and approaches challenging moments with curiosity, patience, and appropriate boundaries Can be loving and nurturing while confidently managing a group Values play and understands how much learning happens through it Is comfortable getting messy, sitting on the floor, exploring outside, singing songs, reading the same favorite book repeatedly, and seeing the world through a child's eyes Understands that outdoor time is an important part of the curriculum—not simply recess Is observant and proactive about children's safety Communicates professionally and respectfully with families and coworkers Is dependable, punctual, organized, and able to take ownership of their classroom Welcomes coaching, collaboration, and continued professional growth Brings creativity and ideas to the classroom rather than relying on worksheets or teacher-directed activities Qualifications Experience working with preschool-aged children, particularly ages 3-4, strongly preferred Previous Lead Teacher experience preferred Early Childhood Education coursework, CDA, Associate's degree, Bachelor's degree, or related education is a plus Must meet all Texas Child Care Licensing requirements for caregivers Must be able to pass required background checks CPR/First Aid certification preferred or willingness to obtain Ability to safely participate in an active preschool environment, including indoor and outdoor play About Little Lotus At Little Lotus Preschool, learning begins with connection and curiosity . Our program combines play-based learning with nature-inspired experiences and influences from Reggio Emilia and Montessori philosophies. Our classrooms are intentionally designed to encourage exploration, creativity, independence, problem-solving, and meaningful relationships. We don't expect three-year-olds to behave like elementary school students. We meet children where they are developmentally while helping them build the skills they need for what comes next. We also believe teachers deserve to work in an environment where they are supported, trusted, encouraged to grow, and able to bring their own creativity into the classroom. If you're looking for a preschool where you can teach through relationships, play, nature, and everyday moments of wonder , we'd love to meet you. Responsibilities Design and implement developmentally appropriate lesson plans tailored to toddler age groups, incorporating literacy education, physical activity, and social-emotional learning. Lead daily classroom activities that promote curiosity, independence, and foundational skills in early childhood development. Manage classroom behavior with positive reinforcement techniques to create a respectful and nurturing environment. Collaborate with colleagues to develop curriculum enhancements that support early intervention strategies and special education needs. Communicate regularly with parents and guardians about their child's progress, milestones, and any behavioral or developmental concerns. Ensure compliance with mandated reporting laws and maintain accurate documentation of child welfare incidents. Oversee classroom safety protocols, including first aid and CPR procedures, to ensure a secure environment for all children. Skills Extensive experience working with children in early childhood settings, especially toddlers. Strong knowledge of child development principles, childhood education standards, and preschool teaching methodologies. Proficiency in curriculum development, lesson planning, and classroom management techniques. Experience with special education programs, early intervention services, and behavior management strategies. Excellent communication skills for effective parent engagement and team collaboration. Familiarity with mandated reporting laws, child welfare policies, and health & safety regulations such as first aid and CPR certification. Ability to incorporate literacy education, math concepts, physical education activities, and standardized testing practices into daily lessons. Prior experience in private school or preschool environments is preferred but not required. Join us as a Lead Toddler Teacher to shape the foundational years of young learners' lives! Your dedication will foster growth in every child's potential while creating a joyful learning atmosphere that celebrates curiosity and discovery.

Pay:

$17.00 - $20.00 per hour Expected hours: No more than 30.0 per week

Benefits:

Employee discount Flexible schedule Paid time off Professional development assistance

Work Location:

In person