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Positive Development
Child Development Specialist
Career Insights for Preschool / Childcare Teacher
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Scorecard
Based on Virginia data
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What they do
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.
$37,025 / year median in Virginia
+7% projected growth
Job Description
Child Development Specialist 4.0 4.0 out of 5 stars Vienna, VA $20
- $28 an hour
- Part-time Positive Development 62 reviews $20
- $28 an hour
Part-time Title:
Child Development Specialist Work Location:
Job Type:
Part-time Pay:
$22- 28 per hour
Our Mission:
Make a real impact. Build real skills. Grow with us. At Positive Development, we believe every child deserves the chance to grow, learn, and thrive and every burgeoning professional deserves meaningful work that builds real skills for the future. We work one-on-one with autistic children, helping them build communication, social, and daily living skills through play-based, relationship-focused interactions. Why This Role isDifferent:
This isn't a passive "observe and assist" job. You'll be actively coaching, connecting, and helping children grow; while gaining experience that's highly relevant for careers in: Psychology Social Work Occupational Therapy Speech Language Pathology Education and Special Education Counseling Medicine and Health This work is deeply rewarding, but it requires patience, emotional maturity, and commitment. You'll be supported every step of the way by experienced clinicians and supervisors who are invested in your growth. We're especially excited to meet candidates who are: Passionate about working with children and teens Curious about human development and learning Patient, empathetic, and enthusiastic Reliable and committed to a consistent schedule (kids depend on consistency!) Comfortable working directly with families in home-based setting Great fits include: Education majors, psychology students, pre-meds, nursing students, OT/SLP hopefuls, behavior technicians, camp counselors, teacher's assistants, childcare providers, direct support professionals, and caregivers. What you'll do as aChild Development Specialist:
You'll work one-on-one with children in their homes and/or center based to: Build communication, social, and daily living skills through play, conversation, and shared activities Create meaningful connections that help children think, create, and engage with the world Follow a relationship-based intervention model designed to achieve strong outcomes with fewer session hours Track progress by documenting session notes and goal outcomes Collaborate closely with clinicians and supervisors to build clinical skills and confidence Learn how evidence-based developmental care works in real life, not just in textbooksPay and Schedules:
Direct Pay:
$22- 28/hour (based on experience and education) Training /
Admin Pay:
$20/hour Part-time schedules: 3, 4, or 5 days per week M-F (most available hours are 3pm-8pm) Or Saturday and Sunday (most available hours are between 9a-3pm) Paid drive time + mileage reimbursement (IRS rate) between clients This role is ideal for students balancing classes, internships, or graduate school.Requirements:
High School Diploma or GED (must be 18+) Valid driver's license + reliable transportation (30-40 min drive radius). Ability to complete physical tasks, including: Playing on the floor/ground for up to two-three hours per session Lifting/carrying up to 40 lbs Sitting, kneeling, crouching, or moving quickly to ensure child safety Strong communication skills and professionalism with families and teammates Training, growth, and career development: We invest in you because strong clinicians start with strong support. You don't need to be an expert- we'll train you.