JOB PURPOSE:
Ensures that the children in the Center receive appropriate physical, nutritional, social, emotional and developmental care in accordance with established rules and regulations for children six months to nine years of age.
This position description indicates in general the nature and levels of work, knowledge, skills, and abilities. It is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities required or assigned to this position.
JOB DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Develops and monitors implementation of lesson plans in a manner that will develop each child's physical, emotional, intellectual, and social behavior; assists with planned activities to stimulate growth in language, social, and motor skills.
- Reviews & approves lesson plans of Child Care Aides.
- Plans learning centers, and general arrangement of the Center.
- Prepares, reviews, and implements nutrition plans for the Center.
- Prepares materials and supplies needed for daily activities.
- Organizes and participates in games, reads to children, and teaches them simple painting, drawing, handwork, songs, and similar activities.
- Guides children in exploring their interests, building self-confidence and self-esteem.
- Directs children in eating, resting, exercising and toileting.
- Maintains daily health and safety routines and standards according to established policies and procedures.
- Assists in disinfecting toys, furniture, floors, bathrooms, and other items and areas on a daily basis.
- Records each child's progress and growth; confers with parents as needed.
- Maintains daily progress reports, activity logs, and accident reports; assists in maintaining educational and activity calendars.
- Assists in play, reading, field trips, and group discussion.
- Encourages children to communicate.
- May accompany and transports children on field trips or to activities.
- Assists parents in feeling welcomed, comfortable, and involved.
- Maintains effective working relationships with parents by assisting with parent participation.
- Oversees the preparation of snacks and meals at breakfast and lunch times.
- Reviews and maintains a daily log of children's activities and evidence of progress.
- Implements established classroom rules and routines and ensuring that they are understood and accepted by children and their parents.
- Maintains professional and technical knowledge by conducting research, attending seminars, educational workshops, classes and conferences; reviewing professional publications; establishing networks; participating in professional societies; conferring with representatives of contracting agencies and related organizations.
- Performs other duties as assigned.
SUPERVISION RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Provides coaching and guidance to Centers staff.
- Trains and directs Child Care Aides in program development and presentation.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS/REQUIREMENTS:
- Associates Degree in Education or related field.
- Bachelor's Degree preferred.
- Three years working with children, one year in a lead capacity.
- Child Development Associate certificate.
- Current Food Handlers Permit.
- First Aid and CPR Certificate.
- Valid and clean state driver's license.
- Must be able to pass background check, with NO prior convictions of any felonies and no history of child abuse and/or neglect.
The Navajo Nation Preference in Employment Act applies to all hiring, promotions or transfers of individuals into this position.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILL AND ABILITY REQUIREMENTS:
- Knowledge of applicable federal, state, county and local laws, regulations, and requirements.
- Knowledge of department organization, functions, objectives, policies and procedures.
- Knowledge of early childhood development, diet and nutrition guidelines.
- Knowledge of regulations of child care.
- Skill in administering disciplinary rules to children and resolving situational conflicts among children.
- Skill in providing coaching and guidance to others.
- Ability to work extended hours and various work schedules.
- Ability to supervise and ensure a safe learning environment for young children.
- Ability to communicate effectively in the Navajo and English language.
- Ability to interact and maintain good working relationships with individuals of varying social and cultural backgrounds.
- Ability to maintain confidentiality.
- Ability to work independently and meet strict time lines.
- Ability to demonstrate moral character, honesty, tact, fairness, lack of prejudice, and desire to help when dealing with people.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS:
- While performing the duties of this job, the employee frequently stand, walk, bend, stoop, and squat.
- Use hands for dexterity of motion, repetitive movement of both hands.
- Have normal auditory, visual acuity, and verbal communications skills.
- The employee must occasionally lift and carry up to 50 pounds.
WORK ENVIRONMENT
- Work is typically performed within an office and childcare/nursery setting with a moderate to loud noise level.
- Exposure to unpleasant odors, hazardous material and infectious disease.
- Tight time constraints and multiple demands are common.
- Evening and/or weekend work may be required. Extended hours and irregular shifts may be required.
