The Lead Infant Teacher will be responsible for the planning, implementation, and oversight of a high-quality, developmentally appropriate program for our infants (birth to ~18 months) in alignment with our Biblical values and the Little Explorers culture. This role requires nurturing relationships with children, families, and staff; ensuring compliance with Colorado licensing and faith-based standards; and serving as the lead caregiver and educator in our infant room.
Responsibilities
- Create and maintain a classroom environment that reflects best practices in early childhood education—nurturing, safe, and responsive to infants’ individual needs.
- Plan and implement daily routines and activities that support physical, social-emotional, cognitive, and language development.
- Ensure the safety, health, and well-being of each child through responsive care: diapering, feeding, comforting, sleep routines, and maintaining cleanliness and hygiene.
- Maintain accurate daily records (meals, sleep, diapering), developmental observations, and assessments, and communicate regularly with families regarding each child’s progress, daily experiences, and milestones.
- Lead and mentor any assistant teacher(s) in the classroom: delegate tasks, model best practices, and ensure compliance with licensing ratios and standards.
- Collaborate with administration on curriculum planning, classroom organization, and supply needs.
- Ensure the classroom meets or exceeds all Colorado Child Care licensing regulations, including safety, sanitation, and supervision standards.
- Participate in staff meetings, professional development, and family engagement events.
- Model professionalism, teamwork, and positive communication while upholding Little Explorers’ Christian mission and values.
Qualifications
- Prior experience working with children in a preschool or daycare setting is required; classroom experience is highly valued.
- Knowledge of childhood development theories, behavior management, and classroom management techniques.
- Experience with curriculum development, lesson planning, literacy education, math instruction, and physical education.
- Familiarity with special education practices, early intervention programs, and Montessori methods is a plus.
- Strong communication skills for effective collaboration with parents, colleagues, and administrators.
- Certification or training in early childhood education or related fields preferred; however, relevant experience can substitute for formal credentials.
- Ability to create an inclusive environment that supports diversity and promotes child welfare.
- Passion for teaching young children and fostering their growth academically, socially, and emotionally. This position provides an enriching environment where educators can inspire young learners while contributing positively to their early educational experiences.
Qualifications & Requirements
- Required: Minimum of a PDIS Level 2 (Colorado Early Childhood Professional Credential).
- Preferred: Associate’s degree (or higher) in Early Childhood Education, Child Development, or a related field.
- Previous experience working in an infant classroom setting, preferably as a lead or assistant teacher.
- Current (or ability to obtain) Infant/Child & Adult CPR and First Aid certifications.
- Strong interpersonal skills and ability to build trust with families and collaborate effectively with co-teachers.
- Physical ability to lift up to 35 lbs, sit on the floor, and safely move throughout the classroom.
- Commitment to the Christian mission of Little Explorers and willingness to model Christian values in the classroom.
Working Conditions & Schedule
- Full-time, Monday–Friday. Ability to work either an opening or mid-day shift is preferred.
- Requires flexibility for occasional staff meetings, parent events, or professional development sessions.
- Compensation and benefits based on experience and qualifications (e.g., paid time off, tuition discounts, professional development opportunities).
Job Type: Full-time
Benefits:
- Dental insurance
- Employee discount
- Health insurance
- Life insurance
- Paid time off
- Professional development assistance
- Retirement plan
- Vision insurance
Work Location: In person
Pay Range: $22-$25 (this role must already be lead qualified)