Montessori Nido/Infant Teacher
Position Overview:
We are seeking a dedicated and nurturing Montessori Nido/Infant Teacher to join our early childhood education team. This position requires a compassionate educator who understands and can implement Montessori principles for children aged 2-18 months, creating a prepared environment that supports each child's natural development and independence.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
Classroom Management and Environment:
The teacher maintains a carefully prepared Montessori environment that is safe, clean, orderly, and aesthetically pleasing. This includes arranging age-appropriate materials on low shelves accessible to infants, rotating materials based on developmental observations, and ensuring all areas meet health and safety standards. The teacher creates distinct areas for movement, feeding, diapering, and sleeping that support the infant's developing sense of order and routine.
Direct Care and Interaction:
The teacher provides individualized care for each infant, including feeding, diapering, dressing, and supporting sleep routines according to each child's individual schedule and family preferences. Physical care is conducted with respect, narrating actions to the child and encouraging their participation. The teacher responds promptly and sensitively to each infant's cues and needs, building secure attachments through consistent, loving interactions.
Observation and Assessment
The teacher conducts ongoing observations of each child's physical, cognitive, social, and emotional development. These observations inform individualized lesson planning and material selection. The teacher maintains detailed records of developmental milestones, daily activities, eating and sleeping patterns, and any concerns. Regular written and verbal reports are shared with families.
Montessori Curriculum Implementation:
The teacher presents developmentally appropriate Montessori materials and activities that support gross motor development, fine motor skills, language acquisition, sensory exploration, and independence. Activities are introduced following Montessori principles of freedom within limits, respect for the child, and support for intrinsic motivation. The teacher facilitates rather than directs learning, following each child's interests and readiness.
Family Communication and Partnership:
The teacher establishes and maintains positive, collaborative relationships with families through daily communication about their child's experiences, development, and care. This includes conducting parent conferences, home visits when appropriate, and providing education about Montessori philosophy and infant development. The teacher respects diverse family cultures, values, and parenting approaches while maintaining program consistency.
Health, Safety, and Nutrition:
The teacher ensures all health and safety protocols are followed, including proper sanitation of toys and surfaces, safe sleep practices, and appropriate supervision ratios. The teacher supports breastfeeding families and properly prepares and stores bottles and solid foods according to individual infant needs and health department regulations. The teacher recognizes signs of illness or developmental concerns and communicates appropriately with families and administration.
Professional Development and Collaboration:
The teacher participates in staff meetings, professional development opportunities, and collaborative planning sessions. The teacher stays current with Montessori pedagogy, infant development research, and early childhood best practices. The teacher works cooperatively with assistant teachers, support staff, and administrators to maintain program quality.
Administrative Responsibilities:
The teacher maintains required documentation, including attendance records, accident and incident reports, daily logs, developmental assessments, and lesson plans. The teacher ensures compliance with all licensing regulations and program policies. The teacher assists with enrollment transitions and orientation of new families.
Additional Duties:
The teacher may be responsible for supervising assistant teachers and student interns, mentoring new staff members, maintaining classroom inventory and supply orders, and participating in school events and community outreach. The teacher performs other duties as assigned by the program director or administrator.
Qualifications:
Montessori Infant/Toddler credential (AMI, AMS, or equivalent) required or in progress
Previous experience working with infants in an educational setting preferred
CPR and First Aid certification required
Clear background check and health clearances as required by state licensing
Strong communication and interpersonal skills
Physical ability to lift infants, sit on the floor, and perform care routines throughout the day
Work Environment:
This position requires working in a classroom environment with infants, including exposure to typical childhood illnesses, diapering responsibilities, and the physical demands of infant care. The teacher must be able to respond quickly to children's needs and maintain alertness throughout the workday
Hours:
9:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m. (1 hr unpaid lunch during work day)
Benifits:
Paid School Holidays
Dental/Vision Insurance
Aflac Incurance Offered (Paid by Employee)
