Classroom Assistant-Montessori Toddler Classroom

Job Description
This role is for a FT person to work in and support the to Toddler (15 months-3 years) level classrooms. The hours will be an 8-hour shift sometime between 8:30 -5.

The Toddler Classroom Assistant works in an environment with up to 14 children between the ages of 15 months-3 years alongside a Montessori-trained Toddler Guide and a second Toddler Assistant. In the summer, two assistants continue the work with up to 12 children. The duties and responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

• Maintaining order and cleanliness of the environment and ensuring that closing duties are met daily.
• Perform cleaning, sanitizing, disinfection, and maintenance necessary to keep the classroom and common spaces clean, beautiful, and safe.
• Meet the toddler children where they are physically, socially, and emotionally.
• Maintaining an open, loving, and cooperative environment.
• Have an inherent love for this stage of development, and the ability to assist the students with their most personal needs such as toileting, washing, and dressing.
• Consistent attendance is important to the students and the functioning of the classroom.
• Communicate with the children using language and tone of voice that is authentic, natural, and, most importantly, kind.
• Promote feelings of security and trust in toddlers by encouraging and supporting them when necessary through activities and practical life skills.
• Seek balance when supporting the toddlers: avoid over-assisting or abandonment while children are practicing new skills (dressing, putting on shoes, face washing, nose-wiping, etc.). Remember the credo should be “help me help myself to learn to do it well.”
• Follow the children and the energy of the classroom to determine the needs of the students.
• Ensure that toddlers are clean and well cared for regarding toileting, eating, handwashing, and mucus.
• Be available, present, and focused on the children at all times and especially during daily transitions (i.e., work cycle, walks, recess, lunch, and naps).
• Oversee and engage toddlers during recess time; ensure that activities are stimulating, age-appropriate, and safe.
• Maintain a positive work environment among all staff that is professional, kind, and inclusive.
• Engage in weekly team meetings by sharing observations and asking questions about child development and how to best support each child.

Qualifications

• Must be 18 or older, have a high school diploma or its equivalent, and meet the requirements of the licensing agencies that regulate the school.
• Employees must demonstrate the ability to work effectively both independently and as a team member.
• Strong communication skills; proven ability to communicate with children and adults with courtesy, respect, acceptance, and patience.
• A warm, friendly personality and the ability to work well with the children and other staff members.
• A demonstrated ability to manage confidential information appropriately.
• Employees should be able to perform the physical requirements of the job: bending, lifting, carrying up to 50 pounds, cleaning, etc.
• Employees shall have or be open to acquiring knowledge of the Montessori philosophy.

Pay: From $20.63 per hour

Benefits:

• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Paid time off
• Retirement plan
• Vision insurance

License/Certification:

• Child Care Basics (Preferred)

Ability to Commute:

• Burien, WA 98166 (Required)

Work Location: In person

Salary : $21