Lead Teacher

Lead Teacher – Early Childhood Education

Branch and Vine Childcare & Preschool | Byron Center, MI

Job Summary

NEW Childcare Center Coming Soon! Branch and Vine Childcare & Preschool is seeking passionate, nurturing, and enthusiastic Lead Teachers to join our team!

We are a Christ-centered, nature-focused childcare and preschool program dedicated to providing children with a childhood rooted in faith, wonder, exploration, and meaningful relationships. Our approach emphasizes developmentally appropriate, play-based learning that encourages children to discover the world around them, build confidence, develop independence, and grow in their understanding of God's love.

As a Lead Teacher, you will create a warm, engaging classroom environment where children feel safe, valued, and encouraged to explore. Our teachers spend significant time outdoors throughout the year, using nature as an extension of the classroom. From outdoor exploration and sensory experiences to gardening, creative play, and hands-on discovery, we believe some of the most meaningful learning happens outside!

We are looking for educators who genuinely enjoy spending time with young children, embrace the outdoors in all seasons, and are excited to incorporate Christian values into everyday learning experiences.

Responsibilities

• Create and maintain a loving, safe, and welcoming classroom environment that reflects Christian values and encourages each child's individual growth.
• Implement developmentally appropriate, play-based learning experiences that support children's cognitive, physical, social, emotional, and spiritual development.
• Facilitate daily outdoor learning and exploration in a variety of weather conditions, encouraging curiosity, creativity, movement, and appreciation for God's creation.
• Incorporate age-appropriate Bible stories, prayer, worship, and Christian principles into daily classroom routines and activities.
• Lead engaging activities (curriculum provided) involving early literacy, math, science, art, sensory exploration, music, and imaginative play.
• Encourage independence, problem-solving, cooperation, and confidence through hands-on learning experiences.
• Build meaningful, nurturing relationships with children and families, recognizing that each child develops at their own pace.
• Use positive guidance, encouragement, and developmentally appropriate behavior-support strategies.
• Observe and document children's developmental progress, interests, and emerging skills to guide learning experiences.
• Communicate regularly and professionally with parents regarding their child's experiences, development, and needs.
• Collaborate with fellow teachers and program leadership to maintain a supportive, team-oriented environment.
• Maintain clean, organized, and inviting indoor and outdoor learning spaces.
• Follow all Michigan childcare licensing regulations, health and safety procedures, and center policies.

Qualifications and Skills

• Meets, or is able to meet before assuming the position, Michigan's licensing qualifications for a childcare center Lead Teacher.
• Experience working with infants, toddlers, or preschool-aged children in a childcare or early childhood education setting is preferred.
• A genuine love for children and a passion for nurturing their development.
• Alignment with the Christian mission, values, and educational philosophy of Branch and Vine Childcare & Preschool.
• Enthusiasm for nature-based education and a willingness to spend substantial time outdoors in all seasons.
• Understanding of developmentally appropriate practices, play-based learning, and positive behavior guidance.
• Creativity, flexibility, patience, and the ability to adapt activities to meet children's individual needs.
• Strong communication skills and a commitment to building positive relationships with families and coworkers.
• Ability to work collaboratively while confidently managing classroom routines and responsibilities.
• Dependability, professionalism, and a positive attitude.
• Willingness to complete all required Michigan childcare licensing training, background checks, and professional development.

Physical and Outdoor Requirements

Because outdoor exploration is an essential part of our program, applicants should be comfortable:

• Spending extended periods outdoors in various weather conditions, including cooler temperatures, light rain, and snow, when conditions are safe.
• Walking, standing, bending, kneeling, sitting on the floor, and actively participating in children's play.
• Supervising children during outdoor exploration, nature walks, and active play.
• Assisting children with daily care routines, including lifting and carrying when appropriate for the assigned age group.

Who We're Looking For

Our ideal Lead Teacher is someone who:

• Loves Jesus and loves children.
• Believes childhood should be filled with wonder, imagination, discovery, and meaningful play.
• Would rather explore the outdoors with children than spend the entire day inside.
• Understands that children learn through relationships, experiences, and exploration—not just worksheets and structured lessons.
• Sees each child as uniquely created by God and worthy of love, patience, and respect.
• Enjoys being part of a close-knit team that encourages and supports one another.
• Wants to make a lasting difference in the lives of children and families.

Join Our Team!

At Branch and Vine Childcare & Preschool, our mission is to provide a Christ-centered, nature-inspired early childhood experience where children grow through purposeful play, meaningful relationships, and hands-on exploration.

If you're passionate about faith, early childhood education, and the wonder of the natural world, we'd love to hear from you!

Branch and Vine Childcare & Preschool

Where wonder leads learning and faith takes root.

Pay: $18.00 - $22.00 per hour

Benefits:

• Flexible schedule
• Paid time off

Work Location: In person

Salary : $18 - $22