Job Description

The Early Childhood Paraprofessional works cooperatively with the Early Childhood Development Teacher to plan and implement the daily education program for the children. Under the supervision of the teacher and director, the paraprofessional ensures that the program is developmentally appropriate and meets the individual needs of children. In the absence of the Early Childhood Development Teacher, the Early Childhood Paraprofessional takes responsibility for the management of the classroom. 

MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES AND KEY TASKS: 

Child Development 

· Provide opportunities for children to develop positive self-images and experience success. 

· Assist in the development of an individualized educational plan for each child. Classroom Management 

· Maintain an attractive and stimulating learning environment and encourage child’s independence and self-selection of activities. 

· Ensure that all children are under appropriate supervision and guidance at all times. · Maintain a clean, safe and healthy classroom environment. 

Curriculum 

· Assist in planning and implementing developmentally appropriate classroom activities that will enhance the social-emotional, physical, language, and cognitive development of each child. 

· Assist in the development of lesson plans with goals, objectives, activities, and outcomes for children. 

· Write anecdotal observations for the development of individualized plans for children and for measuring and evaluating child progress. 

Parent Involvement 

· Encourage parent participation in program activities and in implementing educational activities for their children at home.

Other 

· Perform other duties as assigned within the scope of the job description.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS: 

· High School diploma or GED 

· CDA certification or willingness to work towards a minimum or 12 hours of college credit in early childhood education or a related field. 

ESSENTIAL SKILLS / ABILITIES REQUIRED: 

· Knowledge of child development and early childhood principles, practices, and curricula.

· Ability and willingness to remain abreast of developments in the child development field to enhance professional growth and development. 

· Knowledge of state childcare licensing standards. 

· Ability to work as a cooperative and supportive team member. 

· Ability to physically interact with children, including bending, kneeling, sitting on the floor, lifting, climbing, and walking. 

· Ability to obtain First Aid and CPR certification. 

· Ability to communicate with others both verbally and in writing. · Ability to lift, carry and move center/classroom equipment and supplies. 

REPORTS TO: Early Childhood Development Teacher/ Director