What are the responsibilities and job description for the Toddler Classroom Assistant position at First Christian Church Mother's Day Out and Early Learning Center?
Schedule: Monday - Friday, 9:00 am-5:00 pm
Pay Rate: $16-$18/hour, based on experience
Location: First Christian Church, Columbia, MO
ABOUT OUR PLAYCARE PROGRAM: Our Toddler Room is part of our vibrant PLAYCARE community--a nurturing blend of preschool and daycare where children 8 weeks-Age 5 grow through guided play, spiritual connection, and loving care where collaboration with families on hitting development milestones, introducing emotional intelligence, and kindergarten preparedness all play roles in our blended curriculum. We believe every day--including the afternoon hours--should be filled with laughter, learning, love, and belonging.
WHAT YOU'LL DO: As our Toddler room assistant, you'll be a key part of our daily rhythm and our lead teacher after naptime, helping children transition into joyful, structured activities that support their development and wellbeing. This is an excellent "next step" position, if you have an interest in early education.
Your responsibilities will include:
- Welcoming children at drop off, checking in children, and fostering activities that are creative and help the children feel welcome and comfortable
- Assisting lead teacher with developmentally appropriate activities and routine during preschool hours
- Maintaining a safe, clean, and joyful classroom environment
- Gently waking children and guiding them through snack time with warmth and attentiveness
- Supporting diaper changes and potty time with dignity and encouragement
- Leading afternoon group play activities that foster creativity, empathy, and social skills
- Communicating kindly with families during both drop-off and pickup and supporting smooth transitions, and also during the day with activities via Brightwheel.
We provide:
- A consistent weekday schedule with no nights or weekends
- A supportive, creative team that values your voice and ideas
- Opportunities to build meaningful relationships with staff, children, and families
- A joyful, inclusive environment where your work truly matters.
What We're Looking For:
We're seeking someone who brings heart, energy, and a sense of purpose to their work with children. Ideal candidates will have:
- A compassionate, playful spirit and a calm, confident presence
- Basic understanding of MO DHSS childcare regulations
- Reliability and teamwork
- Experience in early childhood settings is a plus, but not required
- A willingness to learn, grow, and contribute to our team. We are a faith-rooted community.
If you are looking to make a difference in early childhood education, we'd love to welcome you to our Playcare family! Apply today and help us make every day a celebration of growth, giggles and grace!
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $16.00 - $18.00 per hour
Education:
- High school or equivalent (Preferred)
Experience:
- Teaching: 1 year (Preferred)
License/Certification:
- CPR/First Aid Certification (Preferred)
Location:
- Columbia, MO 65201 (Required)
Shift availability:
- Day Shift (Required)
Work Location: In person
Salary : $16 - $18