Infant and Toddler Classroom Teacher

Summary

As Head Infant/Toddler Teacher at New Beginnings Early Learning Center, you'll nurture the earliest and most critical years of a child's development - from first steps to first words and everything in between. You'll create a warm, responsive environment grounded in CT ELDS and DOTS frameworks, building secure attachments with infants and toddlers while partnering closely with families during this irreplaceable stage of growth. This role is for an educator who understands that care and education are inseparable in the earliest years - and who brings both expertise and heart to every interaction.

Duties

Curriculum and Instruction

• Design and implement developmentally appropriate learning experiences aligned with CT ELDS
• Utilize DOTS for ongoing assessment and documentation of children's development
• Create responsive, relationship-based activities supporting early language, sensory, and motor development
• Modify caregiving and teaching strategies to accommodate individual developmental needs

Classroom Management

• Create and maintain a safe, clean, and engaging indoor and outdoor learning environment
• Arrange spaces to facilitate exploration, creative play, and motor skill development
• Establish consistent routines and positive behavior expectations
• Supervise and support teacher assistants and volunteers

Assessment and Documentation

• Implement DOTS assessment system to track and document developmental progress
• Maintain accurate student records in compliance with state regulations
• Identify children showing signs of developmental concerns and implement appropriate interventions

Family and Professional Collaboration

• Communicate regularly with families regarding child development and daily care
• Partner with families to support continuity between home and classroom
• Collaborate with teaching team and specialists to support children with special needs
• Participate in staff meetings, professional development, and program evaluation

Health and Safety

• Ensure compliance with all health, safety, and sanitation regulations
• Follow proper procedures for diapering, toileting, meals, and snacks
• Support children's development of self-help skills and personal hygiene
• Implement proper health and safety protocols

Requirements

Bachelor's degree or higher in Early Childhood Education from a regionally accredited institution

OR Bachelor's degree or higher in any field from a regionally accredited institution PLUS current Connecticut State Department of Education (CSDE) Early Childhood certification endorsement

OR Bachelor's degree or higher in any field from a regionally accredited institution PLUS OEC's 12 DEFINED foundational Early Childhood Education credits

OR (Accepted until June 30, 2030 only) Bachelor's degree or higher in any field PLUS any 12 Early Childhood Education credits

• OR Currently enrolled and actively working toward a bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education with approved plan of study and completing at least 9 credits per academic year

Nice To Haves

Preferred Skills and Experience

• Strong understanding of child development across all age groups birth to five
• Strong oral and written communication skills
• Infant/child CPR and First Aid certification
• Ability to adapt quickly and collaborate effectively across multiple classroom teams

Requirements

• Must successfully clear a full background check
• Must pass required health screening