Infant/Toddler Specialist

Salary starts at $62,000 annually.

The Y offers a variety of impactful programming to all ages and families. Following the Y's impact for more than 150 years, the mission of the YMCA of Metro Chicago is to strengthen community by connecting all people to their potential, purpose, and each other.

The YMCA of Metropolitan Chicago is hiring a full-time Infant Toddler Specialist for our early learning programs. This position is R\responsible for overseeing the 0-3 program. This includes monitoring of classroom to maintain Prevention Initiative compliance, providing mentoring and reflective supervision to 0-3 staff, and assisting the Family Service Worker/Parent Educator in the implementation of the Parent As Teachers curriculum for children and families.

Our staff is the Y's greatest asset. Our teams provide valuable skills, knowledge, and passion that is essential to the contribution and positive impact in our communities, which is why we offer Y employees numerous perks and benefits, including:

• Comprehensive benefits package for eligible employees
• Opportunity for eligible employees to participate in the Y's retirement fund
• Do meaningful work and contribute to the advancement of the YMCA vision by meeting the needs of the people in our communities
• Complimentary Family YMCA membership and a 25% employee discount on select programs
• Career advancement opportunities - grow your career at the Y!

Scope of Responsibilities:

• Provide ongoing coaching and monitoring to Early Head Start/Prevention Initiative teachers, including:
• Implementation of policies, procedures, and developmentally appropriate practices according to Early Head Start, Prevention, Initiative, and NAEYC standards
• Monthly classroom observations, coaching, and feedback
• Review of children's files and portfolios
• Review and follow up on data utilizing all applicable systems
• Provide guidance and support to teachers' use and implementation of the Creative Curriculum System for Infants, Toddlers, and Two’s, with fidelity.
• Review and monitor the accuracy and timely completion of all screening, assessment, and referrals.
• Supervise and monitor the execution of the Parenting curriculums to promote partnerships, family engagement, and school readiness.
• Collaborate with the EHS teachers, Family Support Specialists, and families to ensure service integration (medical, dental, health/mental health, social services, and special needs).
• Work collectively with YMCA and contractual staff to ensure overall program compliance in birth-three classrooms.
• Assist Site Director with family and staff recruitment; and the EC Operations Manager with staff interviews, selections, orientation, supervision, ongoing professional development, and evaluation.

Requirements:

• Bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education or a related field
• Erikson Infant Toddler Specialization Certificate or an Ilinois Gateways Level 5 Infant and Toddler Credential (Applicants without I/T credentials will not be considered)
• Previous work experience in a childcare setting with some knowledge of Head Start and the Creative Curriculum
• At least 6 college credit hours in caring for children with disabilities
• Familiarity with DFSS's current computerized system (COPA)
• 2-3 years of supervisory experience is preferred

Child Abuse Prevention

Supports the YMCA’s commitment to child abuse prevention by:

• Reporting any items that may provide a health or safety hazard to staff, members, or guests to your supervisor
• Following all policies and procedures related to keeping children safe in our facilities and programs, including those related to the monitoring and supervision of children
• Reporting any suspicious behavior and violation of policy and procedures to your supervisor
• Completing all child abuse prevention training as required