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Child Care - Early Learning Assistant Teacher

Job Overview

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Employment Type

Full-time
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Compensation

Hourly
Exact $15.00
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Work Schedule

Standard Hours
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Benefits

Health Insurance
Dental Insurance
Paid Time Off
Retirement Plan
Professional development opportunities
Employee Discounts
flexible scheduling

Job Description

The YMCA is a well-established community-focused nonprofit organization dedicated to strengthening individuals and families through youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility programs. Known nationwide for its commitment to fostering safe and nurturing environments, the YMCA offers a wide range of services that support children's growth and development. With a strong mission-driven approach, the YMCA emphasizes inclusivity, diversity, and the importance of community engagement to create meaningful and lasting impacts on the lives of those they serve. The organization's core values—welcoming, genuine, hopeful, nurturing, and determined—define its culture and guide every aspect of its work, ensuring a supportive atmosphere where both staff and members can thrive and grow.

The position of Early Learning Assistant Teacher at the YMCA plays a critical role in supporting the educational development and well-being of young children. Working under the direction of the Early Learning Director and Early Learning Lead Teacher, this role is designed for individuals passionate about early childhood education and dedicated to promoting the holistic growth of every child. The Early Learning Assistant Teacher assists in delivering a developmentally appropriate daily program that encompasses activities fostering children’s affective, cognitive, physical, perceptual-motor, communicative, and social competencies. This position emphasizes teamwork, collaborating closely with the Lead Teacher to employ a team teaching approach that ensures the safe, healthful care and management of children within a nurturing environment.

Beyond classroom instruction, the role requires active participation in maintaining open, positive communication with families, program staff, and community resources, reinforcing the YMCA’s commitment to community partnership and family involvement. The Early Learning Assistant Teacher helps uphold high standards of program quality and safety, adhering strictly to YMCA policies, risk management practices, and state child care licensing regulations. A vital part of the job involves assisting with the planning of both long- and short-term activities aligned with curriculum objectives, developmentally appropriate practices, and the program's philosophy to meet children’s emotional, social, physical, and cognitive needs.

This position also demands continual professional development, encouraging ongoing training and certification to maintain current knowledge and compliance with standards such as CPR, AED, First Aid, and mandated abuse reporting. The job environment requires an active and physically engaging presence, with the ability to participate in program activities, manage classroom safety, and accommodate diverse needs. The YMCA values a professional attitude and loyalty, with its staff expected to set an example of excellence and integrity in all their interactions.

Working as an Early Learning Assistant Teacher at the YMCA offers a rewarding opportunity to make a meaningful difference in the lives of young children while experiencing personal and professional growth in a supportive community-oriented environment. This employment opportunity is ideal for those who are compassionate, patient, and eager to contribute to a team dedicated to child development and family support within one of the nation’s most respected nonprofit organizations.

Job Requirements

  • Minimum age of 18
  • High school diploma required
  • Minimum 2 years of experience in early childhood education
  • CPR, AED, First Aid, and Oxygen training required within 60 days of employment
  • Completion of Child Abuse Prevention, Bloodborne Pathogen and Orientation training before first day
  • Ability to work Monday-Friday during program hours
  • Willingness to work outside program hours for planning, training and meetings
  • Commitment to YMCA mission and values
  • Ability to communicate respectfully with parents and staff
  • Ability to cope with stress and maintain professionalism

Job Qualifications

  • Minimum age of 18
  • High school diploma required with preference for an associate degree in early childhood education or related field
  • Minimum 2 years experience in early childhood education
  • Ability to assist with planning, organizing and implementing developmentally appropriate activities
  • Excellent interpersonal communication skills
  • Outgoing, warm, and friendly personality
  • Commitment to working with children in developmental settings
  • Ability to relate well with children and adults
  • Experience working with individuals from diverse backgrounds
  • Ability to cope with stress and maintain professionalism
  • CPR, AED, First Aid, and Oxygen training within 60 days of employment
  • Completion of Child Abuse Prevention, Bloodborne Pathogen and Orientation training before starting
  • Leadership qualities with sensitivity, maturity, and fairness
  • Creativity in daily planning
  • Ability to work Monday-Friday during program times
  • Availability outside program hours for planning, training, and meetings
  • Knowledge of YMCA mission and ability to communicate it to community
  • Willingness to communicate positively with parents and officials

Job Duties

  • Adhere to policies related to boundaries with youth
  • Complete required abuse risk management training
  • Adhere to procedures related to managing high-risk activities and supervising youth
  • Report suspicious or inappropriate behaviors and policy violations
  • Follow mandated abuse reporting requirements
  • Assure high standards of program quality and safety in accordance with YMCA policies and risk management procedures
  • Assist in planning both long and short range activities following curriculum objectives
  • Meet the emotional, social, physical and cognitive needs of each child
  • Maintain confidentiality related to children, families and staff
  • Communicate with families in a friendly, courteous and respectful manner
  • Pursue training and learning opportunities and maintain current certifications required by the position
  • Maintain classroom environment according to program goals and philosophy
  • Keep equipment and materials in good repair and stored safely
  • Provide a physically and mentally safe environment for children
  • Follow dress code set forth by the association
  • Attend all required staff meetings and contribute to programming discussions
  • Assist with maintaining all applicable licensing regulations
  • Adhere to State of Indiana Child Care Licensing rules and regulations
  • Set an example of professionalism and loyalty to other staff

Job Criteria

Experience

Mid Level (3-7 years)


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