SUMMARY:

Caregiver is the primary provider for small groups of infants and toddlers in an assigned classroom. This position plans and implements a developmentally appropriate program geared toward infants and toddlers as required by the Head Start Performance Standards. This position arranges and maintains learning centers and classroom in an attractive, safe and developmentally appropriate manner. Implements the daily curriculum to stimulate emotional, physical, social and intellectual development; provides varied opportunities for sensory-motor and creative development; provides ongoing opportunities for first hand experiences; and encourages children to observe, explore, discover and assist in gaining a sense of achievement and self-worth

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

Include the following:

• Provides supervision and a positive social and learning experience for infants and toddlers during family-style meal time.
• Organizes lesson plans and various developmentally appropriate activities for infants and toddlers in assigned groups according to the Head Start Program Performance Standards.
• Implements the program’s curriculum focusing on the developmental needs of infants and toddlers
• Organizes classroom into learning centers and ensures work space meets mandated requirements in the Head Start Program Performance Standards.
• Plans and implements appropriate individual activities for infants and toddlers, and conducts daily evaluations of cognitive skills areas & social and emotional development. Refers infants and toddlers to appropriate program components when necessary.
• Uses child outcomes data reports to strengthen teaching techniques,
• Records observations on Teaching Strategies Gold ongoing assessment online system.
• Holds conferences with parent(s) concerning the progress and development of the child. Serves as a positive adult model for infants, toddlers and parents.
• Makes home visits in order to encourage parental participation in the program and assists parents in becoming familiar with the needs of their infants and toddlers, and encourages them in carrying out learning activities at home.
• Prepares written reports and supervises maintenance of records concerning the child’s attendance, progress, problems, and health and parent contacts.
• Provides support in the planning and implementation of training for center parent committee meetings. Attends parent committee meetings and community related meetings as required.
• Recruits and supervises volunteers in the classroom to utilize their skills effectively.
• Attends professional and educational conferences and meetings to stay abreast of educational trends, and enhances knowledge and skills.
• Assists in obtaining in-kind contributions.
• Performs other duties as assigned.