Lead Toddler Teacher

Infant Co-Teacher (Full-Time or Part-Time)

Early Spark Academy & Childcare | Southfield, MI

Pay: Starting at $16.00–$20.00 per hour, based on education, experience, and qualifications

Job Type: Full-Time

Expected Hours: 40 hours per week

At Early Spark Academy, we believe the first years of life lay the foundation for everything that follows. That's why we're looking for nurturing, dependable educators who are passionate about supporting toddlers through meaningful relationships, responsive care, and engaging learning experiences.

What You'll Do

As a Lead Toddler Teacher, you'll work alongside another educator to create a safe, nurturing, and engaging classroom where infants feel secure, loved, and encouraged to explore.

Responsibilities include:

• Build warm, responsive relationships with toddlers and their families
• Provide attentive, individualized care throughout the day
• Follow all Michigan childcare licensing regulations and safe sleep requirements
• Support children's cognitive, language, social-emotional, and physical development through intentional interactions
• Plan and facilitate developmentally appropriate sensory, play, and learning experiences
• Complete daily observations, communication, and classroom documentation
• Maintain a clean, organized, and tour-ready classroom environment at all times
• Work collaboratively with your co-teacher to provide consistent routines and expectations
• Assist with feeding, diapering, bottle preparation, and other daily care routines while preserving each child's dignity and independence
• Communicate professionally with families regarding children's daily experiences and milestones
• Participate in coaching, staff meetings, and ongoing professional development

What We're Looking For

We're looking for educators who are:

• Passionate about working with children
• Warm, patient, and nurturing
• Dependable and reliable
• Positive and team-oriented
• Organized and professional
• Eager to learn and grow
• Committed to providing exceptional care every day
• Dedicated to maintaining a welcoming classroom environment that is always ready for children and families

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience working with toddlers in a licensed childcare setting
• CDA, associate's degree, or bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education or a related field
• Knowledge of infant development and developmentally appropriate practices
• Understanding of Michigan childcare licensing requirements
• CPR/First Aid Certification (or willingness to obtain)
• Ability to lift up to 40 pounds and actively engage with children throughout the day

Why Join Early Spark Academy?

At Early Spark Academy, we believe great educators deserve great support.

We invest in our team through coaching, collaboration, and professional development because we know children thrive when educators feel valued, confident, and supported.

Benefits & Perks

• Competitive pay based on experience and qualifications
• Paid professional development and coaching
• Supportive leadership team
• Collaborative work environment
• Opportunities for advancement as our school continues to grow
• Paid time off, benefits, and paid sick time for eligible employees (full-time)
• Employee childcare discount (when applicable)

Ready to Join Our Team?

If you're passionate about making a difference during the most important years of a child's development, we'd love to hear from you.

Join Early Spark Academy and help create meaningful learning experiences that inspire curiosity, confidence, and a lifelong love of learning.

Pay: $16.00 - $20.00 per hour

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• Dental insurance
• Employee discount
• Flexible schedule
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Professional development assistance
• Tuition reimbursement
• Vision insurance

Work Location: In person