Lead Toddler Teacher

About the job

We are seeking an experienced, compassionate, and organized Lead Toddler Teacher who can guide toddlers through one of their most important transitions from home care to a structured school setting. The Lead Teacher will take charge of the classroom, support assistant teachers, and collaborate closely with leadership to create a warm, engaging, and well-managed learning environment. The ideal candidate is a strong communicator, a natural leader, and a team player who understands how to balance nurturing care with structure and developmental guidance. Key Responsibilities Work alongside and report to the Assistant Director and Director to ensure quality care and smooth daily operations. Lead and manage the toddler classroom, fostering a safe, nurturing, and engaging learning environment. Ensure the safety of children at all times in the classroom, playground, bathrooms, and on field trips. Collaborate with the Curriculum Coordinator and other teachers to plan, organize, and implement age-appropriate projects and activities. Facilitate daily routines to ensure the schedule runs smoothly and children stay on task. Assist in classroom management and maintain organization and cleanliness, following all safety practices and regulations. Instruct and supervise children during activities, supporting learning and social development while ensuring safety. Provide positive guidance, feedback, and encouragement during projects, playtime, and group activities. Prepare and assist with lunch and snacks, monitor cleanup, and guide children through rest time routines. Help children develop self-help skills such as dressing, buttoning, toileting, and handwashing, assist with diapering and toilet training as needed. Communicate with parents regarding daily activities, incidents, and developmental updates in accordance with school policies. Maintain a safe, healthy, and emotionally supportive classroom environment at all times. Model teamwork, professionalism, and effective communication within the teaching team. Ensure compliance with all state licensing, health, and safety requirements. Qualifications CDA in Preschool or Toddler Education, or actively completing one. Minimum 1 year of experience in an early childhood education setting. Warm, friendly, and professional demeanor with a genuine love for working with young children. Ability to relate respectfully to children, parents, coworkers, and administrators. Strong communication, collaboration, and feedback skills, both giving and receiving. Demonstrated ability to multi-task, stay calm under pressure, and maintain classroom control. Must meet all state licensing and health requirements. Ability to lift or assist in lifting a preschool-aged child and maintain active supervision at all times. Visual and hearing capabilities that allow consistent supervision and safety monitoring.