Lead Toddler Teacher

Toddler Teacher (Full-Time)

Kradles2Krayons Child Development Center
Location: Columbia, South Carolina
Position Type: Full-Time

About Kradles2Krayons Child Development Center

At Kradles2Krayons Child Development Center, we believe every child deserves a safe, nurturing, and engaging environment where they can learn, grow, and thrive. Our mission is to provide high-quality early childhood education while building meaningful relationships with children and families through compassion, professionalism, and excellence.

We are seeking a dependable, nurturing, and passionate Toddler Teacher to join our team. The ideal candidate understands the unique developmental needs of toddlers and enjoys creating a classroom environment where young children feel secure, supported, and encouraged to explore.

If you are passionate about early childhood education and want to make a lasting impact during some of the most important years of a child's development, we would love to welcome you to the Kradles2Krayons family.

Position Summary

The Toddler Teacher is responsible for creating and maintaining a safe, engaging, and developmentally appropriate classroom environment for young children. This position focuses on supporting children's social-emotional development, language growth, independence, early learning skills, and positive relationships through responsive caregiving and intentional teaching practices.

The Toddler Teacher will work collaboratively with classroom team members, families, and administration to provide high-quality care while maintaining compliance with Kradles2Krayons Child Development Center policies and South Carolina Department of Social Services childcare licensing requirements.

Key Responsibilities

• Classroom Environment & Curriculum
• Create a warm, nurturing, and engaging classroom environment that supports toddler development.
• Plan and implement developmentally appropriate activities based on children's interests, abilities, and developmental needs.
• Support learning through play, exploration, music, movement, sensory experiences, books, and hands-on activities.
• Prepare classroom materials, learning centers, and activities that encourage curiosity, independence, and creativity.
• Maintain an organized, clean, and inviting learning environment.
• Child Development & Care
• Provide responsive care that supports each child's individual developmental needs.
• Encourage language development through conversations, songs, storytelling, and meaningful interactions.
• Support toddlers in developing independence with daily routines and self-help skills.
• Encourage positive social interactions, sharing, communication, and problem-solving skills.
• Observe and document children's developmental progress.
• Support transitions throughout the day, including arrival, meals, nap, play, and dismissal.
• Build strong, trusting relationships with children while supporting their emotional development.

Health, Safety & Daily Routines

• Maintain a safe and healthy classroom environment at all times.
• Supervise children closely during indoor and outdoor activities.
• Follow proper health, sanitation, and safety procedures.
• Complete diapering and toileting routines according to center policies and licensing requirements.
• Support children who are beginning potty-training routines in partnership with families.
• Assist with meal and snack routines while encouraging healthy habits and independence.
• Monitor children's health, behavior, and overall well-being.
• Maintain accurate classroom records and required documentation.
• Family Communication & Team Collaboration
• Build positive and professional relationships with children, families, and coworkers.
• Communicate daily updates with families regarding children's routines, accomplishments, and needs.
• Partner with families to support children's growth and development.
• Collaborate with classroom team members to provide consistent care and learning experiences.
• Participate in staff meetings, trainings, and professional development opportunities.

Professional Responsibilities

• Maintain confidentiality regarding children, families, and center operations.
• Follow all Kradles2Krayons policies, procedures, and licensing requirements.
• Demonstrate professionalism, reliability, and a positive attitude.
• Participate in ongoing professional growth and training opportunities.
• Support the mission and values of Kradles2Krayons Child Development Center.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required.
• Must have worked in childcare in the last six (6) months.
• Must have reliable transportation.
• Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education, Child Development, or a related field preferred.
• Previous experience working with toddlers in a childcare center, preschool, or early learning environment preferred.
• Knowledge of toddler development and developmentally appropriate practices.
• Strong communication, organization, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to create a positive, engaging, and nurturing classroom environment.
• CPR and First Aid Certification (or willingness to obtain upon hire).
• Must successfully complete all required background screenings and meet South Carolina Department of Social Services childcare licensing requirements.

What We're Looking For

We're looking for someone who is:

• Patient, caring, and passionate about working with young children.
• Dependable, punctual, and professional.
• Creative and intentional when planning learning experiences.
• Able to build strong relationships with children and families.
• Comfortable working as part of a collaborative teaching team.
• Committed to providing high-quality early childhood education.
• Excited about helping toddlers develop confidence, independence, and a love for learning.

Schedule

Monday–Friday
7:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Additional hours may occasionally be available during special events, school breaks, professional development days, or center needs.

Compensation

Starting at $12.00 per hour, with opportunities for increased pay based on education, childcare experience, qualifications, classroom experience, and additional responsibilities.

Toddler Teachers play an important role in supporting children's early development and are valued members of our teaching team. Kradles2Krayons Child Development Center recognizes professional growth through experience, ongoing training, education, and commitment to providing high-quality early childhood education.

Benefits

Eligible employees may enjoy:

• Competitive hourly pay based on experience and qualifications
• Sign On and other bonus opportunities
• Paid training and professional development opportunities
• Opportunities for career growth and advancement
• Employee childcare discount (if applicable)
• Supportive, family-oriented work environment
• Continuing education and training opportunities
• Opportunities to participate in professional development initiatives

What You'll Gain

Working at Kradles2Krayons Child Development Center is more than just a job—it's an opportunity to build a rewarding career while making a meaningful impact in the lives of children and families.

As a Toddler Teacher, you will:

• Gain valuable experience in early childhood education and child development.
• Strengthen your classroom management and teaching skills.
• Develop expertise in toddler development and developmentally appropriate practices.
• Build meaningful relationships with children, families, and fellow educators.
• Participate in professional development opportunities.
• Expand your knowledge of curriculum planning and intentional teaching.
• Become part of a team dedicated to providing exceptional care and education.
• Explore opportunities for continued growth within Kradles2Krayons Child Development Center.
• Physical Requirements
• Ability to stand, walk, bend, kneel, squat, and actively engage with children throughout the workday.
• Ability to lift and carry up to 35 pounds.
• Ability to assist children with daily care routines.
• Ability to participate in indoor and outdoor activities.
• Ability to respond quickly and appropriately to children's needs and emergency situations.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Kradles2Krayons Child Development Center is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees, children, and families. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other protected status under applicable law.

Apply Today

If you are dependable, nurturing, and passionate about helping young children learn and grow, we invite you to apply for the Toddler Teacher position at Kradles2Krayons Child Development Center.

Join a team that is committed to excellence, values every child, and believes in making a difference—one child at a time.

We look forward to welcoming you to the Kradles2Krayons family!