Child Care Assistant Teacher

Pay:

$17.13

• $19.

00 per hour Job description: Whispering Willows Academy is a brand-new childcare center dedicated to nurturing children through a nature-based curriculum, play-centered growth, and a positive discipline approach. We believe in creating a warm, inclusive, and joyful community where children learn through exploration and meaningful experiences. We are currently seeking Assistant Teachers for the following classrooms: 6 weeks

• 12 months 12 months
• 2.5 years 2.5
• 3.5 years 3.5
• 4.5 years 4
• 5 years 5
• 7 years (Two classrooms) If you are passionate about supporting whole-child development and want to join a collaborative and supportive team, we would love to meet you!

Our Commitment to Early Childhood Education At Whispering Willows Academy, we believe the early years build the foundation for lifelong confidence, character, and curiosity. Guided by the Wonderful Woodland Garden Curriculum , we offer hands-on, nature-based, and play-centered learning experiences that nurture every aspect of a child's development. Our educators are committed to professional excellence through continuous learning, team collaboration, and best practices in early childhood education. We prioritize safety, structure, and high-quality care, ensuring every child thrives in a secure and enriching environment. We also value strong partnerships with families and the community, fostering belonging, respect, and compassion so each child grows with confidence and a love for learning. _______________________________________________________________________________________

About Our Approach:

Nature-Based Learning At Whispering Willows Academy, nature is an essential part of each child's day. Our classrooms extend into the outdoors, where children explore plants, soil, seasons, weather, and wildlife. Whether they are gardening, going on nature walks, collecting natural materials, or participating in outdoor sensory play, children learn through hands-on experiences that build resilience, curiosity, and confidence. We believe that time spent outdoors helps strengthen physical health, imagination, problem-solving skills, and a lifelong appreciation for the natural world. Play-Centered Growth Play is at the heart of how young children learn. Our curriculum is designed around open-ended, child-led exploration that encourages creativity, independence, teamwork, and critical thinking. Decades of research in early childhood development confirm that play promotes neural connections essential for learning, supports problem-solving abilities, and enhances social-emotional competence. Through imaginative play, building, storytelling, sensory experiences, and social interaction, children develop essential cognitive and social-emotional skills. We intentionally create play environments that allow children to follow their interests, make discoveries, and practice real-world problem-solving in joyful, meaningful ways Positive Discipline We use a relationship-centered approach rooted in empathy, trust, and connection. Instead of punitive discipline, our teachers guide children through emotional regulation, cooperation, and respectful communication. Research indicates that positive discipline strategies, such as encouragement, setting clear boundaries, and supportive redirection, lead to better emotional outcomes, stronger teacher-child relationships, and a more respectful classroom community. We strive to teach children the "why" behind expectations and help them learn to identify feelings, resolve conflicts, and make positive choices. Children learn not just what to do, but why it matters. Our goal is to build strong, secure relationships where children feel valued, understood, and supported. A Home Away From Home Above all, Whispering Willows Academy strives to create a warm, welcoming, and nurturing environment that feels like a home away from home. We want children to feel safe, loved, and comfortable from the moment they walk through our doors. Our classrooms are designed to be cozy, inclusive, and responsive to children's needs. We build trusting relationships, celebrate each child's unique personality, and cultivate a sense of belonging that extends to families as well. When children feel at home, they are free to explore, learn, and grow with confidence. ______________________________________________________________________________________

Responsibilities:

Core Responsibilities Classroom Support:

Help implement lesson plans, prepare learning materials, set up activities, and lead small groups under Lead Teacher guidance

Child Supervision & Care:

Monitor children during play, meals, and special events; assist with diapering, potty training, hygiene, feeding, and comforting

Environment Management:

Maintain a clean, safe, and nurturing classroom and playground; sanitize toys and equipment; ensure a positive learning atmosphere

Developmental Support:

Observe and record children's progress, behaviors, and developmental milestones; report concerns to the

Lead Teacher Behavior & Social Skills:

Guide children in appropriate classroom behavior, social interactions, and self-help skills using established discipline strategies

Communication:

Collaborate with Lead Teachers and maintain clear communication with parents and guardians about their child's day, development, and needs Daily Duties Set up learning centers and prepare classroom activities Assist with meal and snack times, promoting healthy eating habits Supervise nap and rest times Clean up after activities and maintain overall classroom tidiness Attend staff meetings, professional development sessions, and required trainings Key Skills Patience, creativity, and flexibility Strong communication and interpersonal skills Knowledge of child development principles Ability to follow curriculum and center policies Commitment to supporting social-emotional and holistic growth in children Required Certifications & Credentials CPR & First Aid certification (or willingness to obtain) Food Handler's Permit Bloodborne Pathogens training Safe Sleep training Negative TB test Fingerprinting and background check clearance Completion of 30-Hour Child Care Basics Course (or willingness to complete) High School Diploma or equivalent Washington State Educational Requirements (Lead Teacher): Obtain an ECE Initial Certificate within 5 years of hire Preferred but not required: Experience in early childhood or childcare settings Education in Early Childhood Education or a related field Experience with nature-based or play-based curriculum (Reggio-inspired, outdoor learning, etc.) Familiarity with positive discipline or trauma-informed care Experience supporting children with diverse developmental needs Benefits Competitive pay based on experience and education Paid trainings & professional development Supportive work environment and strong leadership Opportunities for advancement as the center grows Paid holidays and vacation after the probationary period Childcare discounts (with availability)

Pay:

$17.13

• $19.

00 per hour

Benefits:

Childcare Employee discount Paid time off

Work Location:

In person