Little Lights Learning Center Opener / Assistant Teacher Crestview, FL · Full time

Apply for Opener / Assistant Teacher

Little Lights Learning Center is a faith-based early learning center serving children ages 1–5 in a safe, loving, and nurturing environment. As a ministry of High Praise, we believe childcare should be more than simply watching children while their parents work. Our goal is to intentionally teach, encourage, and care for each child while helping them grow socially, emotionally, academically, and spiritually. What makes Little Lights different is our commitment to creating a Christ-centered environment where children are known, loved, and given opportunities to learn through purposeful play, structured routines, age-appropriate curriculum, and meaningful relationships with their teachers. We are building a team of educators who genuinely enjoy working with young children, value teamwork, communicate well with families, and want to make a lasting difference during some of the most important developmental years of a child's life.

Responsibilities

• Arrive consistently and on time for the 6:00 AM opening shift.
• Complete assigned opening procedures and help ensure the center is ready for children and families.
• Welcome children and families warmly as they arrive.
• Safely supervise children in the designated opening classroom.
• Maintain accurate attendance and follow appropriate check-in procedures.
• Help children transition into their assigned classrooms as Lead Teachers arrive.
• Support Lead Teachers in Little Sparks, Bright Beams, and Shining Stars as needed.
• Assist with classroom activities, play, learning experiences, and transitions.
• Help with toileting, potty training, diapering, handwashing, and personal-care needs as appropriate for children's ages.
• Provide teacher bathroom and lunch-break coverage as assigned.
• Assist with snacks, meals, cleanup, and sanitation.
• Maintain active supervision of children at all times.
• Use positive, age-appropriate guidance and redirection.
• Help maintain clean, organized, and safe classrooms.
• Communicate concerns promptly to the Lead Teacher, Director, or Assistant Director.
• Follow all Little Lights policies regarding safety, supervision, confidentiality, child guidance, and professional conduct.
• Participate in required training and staff meetings.
• Demonstrate flexibility and teamwork by assisting wherever the center has the greatest need.

What We're Looking For

We are looking for someone who:

• Is extremely dependable and punctual.
• Genuinely enjoys working with young children.
• Is comfortable working with children approximately ages 1–5.
• Is willing to be actively involved rather than simply supervising from the sidelines.
• Is comfortable assisting with toileting, potty training, diapering, accidents, and cleanup.
• Works well with different teachers and classroom personalities.
• Can take direction while also recognizing what needs to be done without constant instruction.
• Maintains a calm and positive attitude during busy transitions.
• Communicates professionally with families and coworkers.
• Supports the Christ-centered mission and values of Little Lights Learning Center.

Qualifications

Preferred:

• Previous childcare, preschool, daycare, or early-childhood experience.
• Completed Florida DCF childcare training/credentials.
• Current CPR/First Aid certification.

Required:

• Ability to successfully complete all required background screening.
• Willingness to complete required DCF training and childcare credentials within the timeframe established by Little Lights.
• Ability to obtain and maintain required CPR/First Aid certification.
• Reliable transportation and the ability to consistently arrive before the center opens.
• Ability to safely supervise and physically assist young children throughout the workday.
• Ability to support and work within the Christian mission and values of Little Lights Learning Center.

Why This Role Matters

The Opener sets the tone for the entire day. Our earliest families need to know that when the doors open, a dependable, welcoming, and attentive teacher is ready to care for their children.

As attendance increases throughout the morning, this role shifts from opening the center to becoming a valuable support person for our Lead Teachers, helping classrooms operate smoothly and allowing teachers to receive needed breaks without disrupting children's routines.