This is child care and development work in the Head Start Program for the Community Action Agency.

Employees in this class are responsible for assisting teachers in the care and development of children enrolled in the Head Start Program. Duties include assisting in the implementation of a cognitively oriented curriculum, assisting a teacher in preparing lesson plans and arranging the classroom, performing home visits, and supervising children. Incumbents utilize skills in child and infant care and development. Supervision is received from a professional superior who reviews work for effective assistance in the care and development of children enrolled in the program.

ILLUSTRATIVE TASKS

Assists in the implementation of a cognitively-oriented curriculum.

Assists a teacher in interacting with children in the classroom to aid in the educational, social and emotional development of children.

Assists a teacher in preparing lesson plans and leading activities which are in accordance with the curriculum.

Assists a teacher in daily evaluations of activities of children in cognitive skill areas and in social and emotional development.

Assists in arranging classrooms and in equipping areas with manipulative materials.

Supervises and assists children in feeding, health care and rest activities.

Supervises meal-time clean up activities.

Interacts and supervises children in outdoor play and games.

Participates with teachers in-home visits to encourage parent participation in the program and familiarize them with the needs of children and learning activities which can be conducted in the home.

Makes recommendations for classroom improvements.

Performs related work as required.

KNOWLEDGES, ABILITIES, AND SKILLS

Knowledge of the conduct and behavior of preschool children.

Knowledge of the program curriculum and learning activities at a Head Start center.

Knowledge of techniques of appropriate stimulation for the development of preschool children.

Knowledge of established child care practices and procedures.

Ability to provide assistance to a teacher in the care and development of children enrolled in the Head Start Program.

Ability to interact with preschool children in the classroom and in outdoor activities.

Ability to follow verbal and written instructions.

Ability to remain alert and observant at all times to assure the safety of children.

Ability to work harmoniously with other Head Start Program staff members.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

High school. One year of experience working with infants and/or toddlers in a child care facility or six months of experience in a Head Start Program are required. Must obtain an HRS Child Care Certificate within the first six months of appointment.

NEW 10-94