Toddler Lead at Berkshire Family YMCA – Pittsfield, Massachusetts

About Company:

Berkshire Family YMCA is a 501(c)(3) cause-driven nonprofit organization whose mission is to put Caring, Honesty, Respect and Responsibility into programs that build healthy spirit, mind and body for all.

The Y’s Commitment to America is developing new generations of changemakers who will create communities we all want to live in. We envision communities where all people achieve health, gain confidence, make connections and feel secure at every stage of life.

The Y is the leading nonprofit committed to strengthening community by connecting all people to their potential, purpose and each other. Working locally, we focus on empowering young people, improving health and well-being, and inspiring action in and across communities. By bringing together people from different backgrounds, perspectives and generations, we ensure that we all have access to the opportunities, relationships and resources necessary to learn, grow, and thrive.

CARING: Show a sincere concern for others

HONESTY: Be truthful in what you say and do

RESPECT: Treat each other as we’d all like to be treated

RESPONSIBILITY: Be accountable for your promises and actions

WELCOMING: We’re open to all and create spaces where you can be, belong and become

GENUINE: We value who you are and encourage you to be true to yourself and others

NURTURING: We’re with you on your path to reach your full potential

HOPEFUL: We believe in your ability to inspire a brighter tomorrow

DETERMINED: We work relentlessly to strengthen communities, starting with you

FOR YOUTH DEVELOPMENT: Empowering young people to reach their full potential

FOR HEALTHY LIVING: Improving individual and community well-being

FOR SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY: Providing support and inspiring action in our communities

About the Role:

The Toddler Lead will play a crucial role in fostering a safe, nurturing, and stimulating environment for toddlers in our care. This position is responsible for developing and implementing age-appropriate educational activities that promote social, emotional, and cognitive development. The Toddler Lead will also oversee daily operations, ensuring that all health and safety standards are met while providing exceptional care. Collaboration with parents and staff is essential to create a supportive community that encourages each child's growth. Ultimately, the Toddler Lead will contribute to laying a strong foundation for lifelong learning and development in young children.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education or a related field.
• At least 2 years of experience working with toddlers in a childcare setting.
• Current CPR and First Aid certification.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience with curriculum development for early childhood education.
• Knowledge of child development theories and practices.
• Familiarity with state licensing requirements for childcare facilities.

Responsibilities:

• Plan and implement engaging and developmentally appropriate activities for toddlers.
• Supervise and mentor assistant teachers and support staff in daily classroom operations.
• Communicate regularly with parents regarding their child's progress and any concerns.
• Maintain a clean, safe, and organized classroom environment that meets licensing regulations.
• Conduct regular assessments of children's development and adjust activities accordingly.

Skills:

The required skills for this position include strong communication and interpersonal abilities, which are essential for building relationships with both children and their families. Organizational skills are vital for planning activities and maintaining a structured classroom environment. Leadership skills will be utilized to guide and support assistant teachers, ensuring a cohesive team approach to childcare. Additionally, creativity is important for developing engaging lesson plans that capture the interests of toddlers. Preferred skills, such as knowledge of child development theories, will enhance the Toddler Lead's ability to tailor activities to meet the diverse needs of each child.