Lead Toddlers Teacher (2 years old)

What You'll Do

• Provide a safe, nurturing, and engaging learning environment for children ages 2–3.
• Plan and implement age-appropriate lesson plans and daily activities that support cognitive, social, emotional, and physical development.
• Guide and support children through the potty-training process using consistency, patience, and positive reinforcement.
• Encourage independence by teaching self-help skills such as self-feeding, hand washing, dressing, cleaning up, and following classroom routines.
• Supervise children at all times, ensuring their safety indoors and outdoors.
• Maintain accurate attendance, daily reports, incident reports, and classroom documentation using Brightwheel.
• Communicate professionally and effectively with families regarding each child's daily progress, milestones, and concerns.
• Foster positive behavior by modeling appropriate social skills and using positive guidance techniques.
• Prepare and serve snacks and meals while following all food safety and sanitation guidelines.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and sanitized classroom, including toys, learning materials, and diapering/potty areas.
• Change diapers when needed while actively supporting children who are transitioning to independent toileting.
• Monitor each child's developmental progress and collaborate with administration regarding any concerns.
• Work collaboratively with assistant teachers and other staff members to maintain classroom ratios and ensure smooth daily operations.
• Participate in staff meetings, trainings, and professional development opportunities.
• Follow all licensing regulations, health and safety policies, and Rising Stars Day School procedures.
• Create a warm, welcoming classroom environment where every child feels valued, respected, and encouraged to learn.

Requirements

• Minimum of 1 year of experience working in a licensed childcare center or Toddler classroom (required).
• Ability to work a minimum of 35 hours per week.
• Experience working with children 2–3 years old is preferred.
• Knowledge of child development and age-appropriate practices for toddlers.
• Experience with or willingness to support potty training and teaching self-help skills.
• Ability to create and implement engaging, developmentally appropriate lesson plans and activities.
• Strong classroom management and positive behavior guidance skills.
• Excellent communication and teamwork skills.
• Dependable, punctual, and professional.
• Patient, nurturing, energetic, and passionate about working with young children.
• Ability to lift up to 40 pounds, sit on the floor, bend, kneel, and actively participate in children's activities.
• Must meet all Virginia licensing requirements, including background checks and required health documentation.
• Current CPR and First Aid certification (or willingness to obtain upon hire).
• High School Diploma or GED required; coursework or a degree in Early Childhood Education is preferred.

Nice to Have

• Child Development Associate (CDA) Credential or coursework in Early Childhood Education.
• Experience in a licensed childcare center or preschool for more than one year.
• Familiarity with Virginia Licensing Standards and classroom compliance.
• Experience using Brightwheel or other childcare management software.
• CPR and First Aid Certification.
• Bilingual (English/Spanish) is a plus.
• Creative and enthusiastic approach to lesson planning, sensory activities, and process art.
• Experience working with children who have diverse learning needs or developmental differences.
• Strong organizational and time management skills.
• Ability to build positive relationships with children, families, and coworkers.
• Willingness to participate in ongoing professional development and training.
• Positive attitude, flexibility, and a team-player mindset with a willingness to jump in where needed.

Benefits