Position Summary The Teaching Assistant & Center Support staff member helps provide a safe, nurturing, and engaging environment for all children at Little Hearts of Clinton Daycare Center. This position works alongside classroom teachers and assists wherever support is needed throughout the center. This is a flexible, team-oriented position. The employee may work in different classrooms throughout the day, assist teachers with classroom responsibilities, provide coverage when needed, and help maintain a positive and organized learning environment. Essential Responsibilities Classroom Support Assist lead and classroom teachers with daily classroom activities and routines. Engage children in age-appropriate play, learning activities, and interactions. Support teachers with supervision and maintaining required staff-to-child ratios. Assist with transitions, meals, snacks, nap/rest time, diapering, toileting, and other daily routines. Help prepare and clean up classroom materials and activities. Follow classroom schedules, lesson plans, and center policies. Provide nurturing, responsive, and respectful interactions with children. Support children's social-emotional development and encourage positive behavior. Center-Wide Teacher Support Move between classrooms as directed by the Director or Assistant Director. Provide additional support when a classroom is busy or has an increased need. Assist teachers during breaks, transitions, activities, meals, and other times of the day. Help cover classrooms when staff are absent or additional coverage is needed. Assist teachers with classroom organization, cleaning, sanitizing, and preparation. Help prepare materials and supplies for classroom activities. Work cooperatively with all classroom teachers and support staff. Be willing to learn the routines and needs of each classroom. Child Care Responsibilities Maintain active supervision of children at all times. Follow all DCFS licensing requirements and Little Hearts policies and procedures. Assist with maintaining a clean, safe, and developmentally appropriate environment. Communicate children's needs and concerns to the appropriate classroom teacher or administration. Maintain confidentiality regarding children, families, and staff. Treat every child and family with respect, kindness, and professionalism. Team Expectations The Teaching Assistant & Center Support position is an important part of our team. Because this employee may work with multiple classrooms, flexibility and teamwork are essential.

The ideal candidate will:

Be dependable and willing to help wherever needed. Have a positive attitude and strong teamwork skills. Be comfortable working with children of different ages. Communicate respectfully with teachers and administration. Be willing to learn and follow each classroom's routines. Take initiative and help without always being asked. Be patient, nurturing, and attentive to children's individual needs. Maintain professionalism and confidentiality. Be willing to assist with both classroom and center-wide responsibilities. Physical Requirements The employee must be able to perform the physical duties associated with caring for young children, including: Sitting, standing, walking, bending, kneeling, and moving throughout the classroom. Getting down to children's level to interact and play. Lifting and carrying children when necessary and permitted. Assisting with classroom cleaning and setup. Responding quickly to children's needs and emergencies. Qualifications Must meet all Illinois DCFS requirements for employment in a licensed child care center. Must complete required background checks and clearances. High school diploma or equivalent preferred. Previous experience working with children is preferred but not always required. Early childhood education coursework or experience is a plus. Must be willing to complete required training and professional development.

Pay:

$15.00 - $20.00 per hour

Benefits:

Childcare Employee discount Paid time off Professional development assistance

Work Location:

In person