The Early Care and Education Teacher works with children of all abilities to make sure they have a safe, loving, and fun place to learn. The teacher helps create lessons and activities that help kids grow in all ways: mentally, emotionally, socially, and physically. They also help make sure the classroom is organized and that the children’s needs are met.

Ensure safety and care of all children:

• Help with lessons and activities each week.
• Keep an eye on all the children to make sure they are safe.
• Help children wash hands, clean up, and follow other health rules.
• Report any signs of abuse as required by law.
• Follow a routine that helps kids feel comfortable and safe.
• Help children with personal needs (like changing diapers or feeding).
• Actively involved and playing with children.

Create a great learning space:

• Keep the classroom clean, organized, and ready for fun activities.
• Make sure everyone feels welcome and safe in the classroom.
• Help check if the program is working well for the children.
• Make sure the classroom follows privacy rules (like HIPAA).
• Keep track of supplies and let the Program Director know when more are needed.
• Help with housekeeping tasks like cleaning and doing laundry.
• Adapt lessons and activities to help children with different needs and abilities.

Lead fun and creative activities:

• Plan activities that let children be creative and curious.
• Use different materials and ideas to keep kids engaged.
• Celebrate each child’s culture and help everyone get along.

Communicate with families:

• Build strong relationships with the children, their families, and other team members.
• Keep parents updated about their child’s progress and any important information.
• Be an advocate for families and support them when needed.
• Meet with parents and talk about their child’s progress.

Paperwork and reports:

• Fill out any reports about incidents or injuries.
• Keep track of daily activities.
• Be sure to clock in and out on time.

Training and education:

• Required trainings as assigned.

Other Duties:

• Learn about all the services Hand in Hand provides and share them with the community.
• Talk with other staff members about ideas and concerns.
• Work with other professionals to help children get the services they need.
• Stay aware of what’s going on with the families and children you work with.

An individual in this position must be able to successfully perform the essential duties and responsibilities listed above. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of this position.

The above list reflects the general details necessary to describe the principle and essential functions of the position and shall not be construed as the only duties that may be assigned for the position.

Qualifications

• You must be at least 16 years old for part-time work and 18 years old for full-time work.

Required:

• High school diploma or GED
• CPR and First Aid certification
• Training in mandatory reporting of child abuse.

Preferred:

• A degree in early care and education or a similar field.
• Experience working with children and adults with disabilities.
• Knowledge of child care rules in Iowa.
• Experience with behavior management.

Skills Needed:

• Ability to read and follow instructions.
• Good communication skills to talk to children, families, and other staff members.
• Ability to solve problems and be flexible.
• Can lift up to 60 pounds (when needed for child care).
• Can use basic technology like email and word processing.
• Can use basic devices like tablet and laptop.

Physical Demands:

• You will sit, stand, walk, reach, and sometime lift up to 60 pounds
• The work can be loud and may include cleaning chemicals.

Work Environment:

• You will work in a classroom with kids, and it may get loud at times.
• The job involved cleaning and sanitizing the area.

Technology/Equipment:

• Able to use basic devices like tablets and laptops.
• Able to use basic technology like email and word processing.

License:

• Must have a driver’s license and reliable transportation.

Skills for Success:

• Inclusive Education: Helping kids with different needs and learning styles.
• Child Development: Knowing how kids grow and what they need to learn.
• Cultural Respect: Showing respect for everyone, no matter their background.
• Behavior Management: Keeping the classroom safe and helping kids follow rules.
• Communication: Talking to children, parents, and co-workers.
• Teamwork: Working well with others to help kids succeed.
• Patience: Being patient and understanding with kids.
• Continuous Learning: Staying up-to-date with the best teaching practices.