Classroom Aide IT2 (Infant-Toddler-Twos)

The Infant–Toddler–Twos Classroom Aide works as part of a collaborative classroom teaching team to support the daily care, supervision, and early learning experiences of children ages 3 months through 3 years old. Under the supervision of the classroom teaching staff, the Classroom Aide assists in implementing developmentally appropriate activities, maintaining a safe and nurturing learning environment, and supporting classroom routines including caregiving tasks such as feeding, diapering, toileting, and rest time. Job Description Essential Duties and Responsibilities Classroom Support Assist the teaching team in planning and implementing developmentally appropriate learning experiences for infants, toddlers, and two-year-old children. Support activities that promote children’s development in all areas of development and learning based on children individual care and learning plans. Child Supervision and Care Provide active supervision and nurturing interactions with children throughout the day. Assist with daily caregiving routines including: Feeding and bottle preparation Diapering and toileting Napping and rest routines Transitions between activities Support children’s independence while maintaining health and safety. Learning Environment Assist with setting up and maintaining classroom learning centers and materials. Help maintain a safe, clean, and developmentally appropriate classroom environment. Prepare materials and support classroom activities planned by the teaching team. Share responsibility for classroom organization and clean-up. Child Development Support Assist teachers with observing children and documenting developmental progress. Support developmental screenings and assessments as directed by the teaching team. Provide inclusion support for children with disabilities or special needs. Family Engagement Interact respectfully with families and support positive relationships with parents and caregivers. Assist with classroom communication, family activities, and program events as appropriate. Professional Responsibilities Attend staff meetings, in-service trainings, and professional development activities. Follow all policies related to child supervision, health and safety, and child protection. Adhere to Illinois DCFS licensing requirements, Head Start Performance Standards, and program accreditation standards. Perform additional duties as assigned to support the overall success of the program. Minimum Qualifications High school diploma or equivalent. Meet all Illinois Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS) requirements for employment as a Child Care Assistant. Ability to pass background checks and required health screenings. Preferred Qualifications Child Development Associate (CDA) credential (Infant-Toddler preferred). Coursework in Early Childhood Education or Child Development. Illinois Gateway Early Childhood Credential. Experience working with children birth through three years old in a licensed childcare or early learning setting. Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Knowledge of developmentally appropriate practices for infants and toddlers. Ability to build positive relationships with children, families, and staff. Strong communication and teamwork skills. Ability to follow program policies, procedures, and regulatory requirements. Additional Applicant Information Physical Requirement/ Demands The role requires significant physical stamina, with long periods of standing, walking between the kitchen and classrooms, and regularly lifting and moving items. Must be able to physically interact with children, including talk, hear, sit, stand, walk; use hands to finger, handle or feel objects, tools, or controls; reach with hands and arms; and stoop, kneel, crouch,or crawl and lift and or move items of up to 50 pounds Work Environment Typical early childhood classroom environment including indoor and outdoor play spaces designed for infants, toddlers, and two-year-old children.