Parent Educator

The Parent Educator supports the program, staff and parent(s) of enrolled children in topics such as: parenting education, child development, community resources and home visits.  The Parent Educator must have good interpersonal skills including listening, a non-judgmental approach, and compassion. This position carries half time caseload of home-based program.   

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Implements the Parents as Teachers (PAT) model, emphasizing parent-child interaction, development centered parenting, and family well-being in their work with families.
• Provide weekly 90-minute home visits with each family within the child’s home or agreed upon location. Plan parent child activities with parent input, that allow parents the opportunity to observe their children and to engage in parent child interactions.
• Work with families to develop and support education and family goals based on the needs of the family. This includes reviewing goals and updating individual plans designed to promote current learning and attend to nutritional, health, and social needs.
• Plan and implement socialization opportunities for children and families.
• Participate in community events and recruitment opportunities to identify and recruit eligible families.  Participation in monthly Policy Council meetings.
• Conduct thorough applications and enrollment process to ensure maximum enrollment.
• Build trusting relationships with families using a strength-based approach while maintaining cultural responsiveness.
• Ensure completion of all documentation. Enter all information into our database.
• Coordinate parent engagement activities, parent committee meetings and provide families with community resources.
• Effective communication with families, staff, management and community partners.
• Must possess knowledge of Head Start performance standards and early childhood development. 
• Establish/maintain positive, professional relationships with parents, always treating them with respect and privacy.
• Maintain confidentiality at all times, within and outside of the program.
• Document information obtained through family contacts, disabilities service, and health screenings as required in data system.
• Maintains up to date child master files & data entry on all assigned children.
• Implement a program in a manner consistent with EASTCONN mission, vision, code of ethical conduct, policies and procedures.
• Demonstrate competency to plan and implement home-based learning experiences that ensure effective implementation of the home visiting curriculum and promote children's progress across the standards described in the Head Start Early Learning Outcomes Framework: Ages Birth to Five, including for children with disabilities and dual language learners, as appropriate, and to build respectful, culturally responsive, and trusting relationships with families.

The following functions are essential in the performance of this position. Applicant must have ability to:

• Maintain accurate records and timely completion of required paperwork. 
• Maintain confidentiality. 
• Have access to reliable and insured transportation. 
• Obtain a physical exam (statement of good health) upon hire and updated every three years. 
• Physically able to interact with children birth to five.

QUALIFICATIONS

Bachelor’s Degree in Human Services or Early Childhood Education plus two years relevant work experience OR Associate’s degree, Family Development Credential &/or CDA with 5 years of experience.

Knowledge of child growth and development.

Experience working with families to support early learning and parenting.  

At EASTCONN, we believe that diversity is key to our success. We encourage candidates from all backgrounds to apply, including those who may not meet every listed qualification. Your passion, drive, and perspective are what matter most to us.

As an EEO/AA employer, EASTCONN provides equal opportunity and prohibits discrimination, harassment and retaliation based upon a person’s race, color, religion, sex, age, national or ethnic origin, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, or any other characteristic protected under applicable law, and caste, which is protected by our policies.

 AA/EOE

M/F/D/V