Toddler Teacher
Hours: Approximately 8:30 AM - 3:30 PM
Start Date: September 2026
Location: The Willow School, Cumberland, Maine

The Willow School is seeking a warm, dependable, and collaborative Toddler Teacher to join our nature-based Montessori community. Our toddler classroom serves children approximately 15 months to 3 years old and focuses on fostering independence, curiosity, emotional growth, and a deep connection to the natural world.

At The Willow School, we believe childhood should be filled with wonder, meaningful work, outdoor exploration, and joyful relationships. Our teachers are reflective practitioners who use observation, documentation, and intentional planning to create learning experiences that honor each child's unique developmental journey.

About the Role:
The Toddler Teacher is responsible for creating and maintaining a safe, nurturing, and engaging learning environment while supporting the social, emotional, physical, and cognitive development of young children. The ideal candidate values child-led learning, enjoys working as part of a collaborative team, and is committed to fostering independence through Montessori principles, nature-based education, and responsive caregiving.

Responsibilities

Child Development & Curriculum

  • Develop and implement lesson plans and classroom experiences that reflect children's interests, developmental needs, and emerging skills.

  • Create learning opportunities aligned with Maine Early Learning and Development Standards (MELDS) and the principles of the American Montessori Society (AMS).

  • Use observation and documentation to inform curriculum planning and individualize learning experiences.

  • Foster children's independence, confidence, problem-solving abilities, and social-emotional growth through intentional guidance and support.

  • Facilitate daily experiences that encourage exploration, movement, language development, practical life skills, and meaningful engagement with the natural world.

Observation, Assessment & Documentation

  • Observe, assess, and document children's development through ongoing observation, developmental tracking tools, portfolios, and anecdotal records.

  • Maintain accurate records of children's progress and contribute to developmental assessments and family conferences.

  • Use documentation to identify developmental strengths, areas of growth, and emerging interests that inform classroom planning.

Family Communication

  • Build positive, respectful relationships with families.

  • Communicate regularly with parents regarding children's development, accomplishments, challenges, and daily experiences.

  • Participate in conferences, school events, and other opportunities that strengthen family partnerships.

Classroom Leadership & Prepared Environment

  • Maintain a thoughtfully prepared Montessori environment by organizing, rotating, and caring for classroom materials and spaces to support children's independence, developmental growth, and emerging interests.

  • Ensure classroom materials are complete, inviting, accessible, and developmentally appropriate.

  • Collaborate with teaching partners to create engaging indoor and outdoor learning environments.

  • Maintain clean, organized, and safe classroom spaces that meet licensing and school expectations.

Daily Care & Supervision

  • Provide attentive supervision and responsive care throughout the day.

  • Support daily routines including diapering, toileting, meals, rest time, dressing, and transitions.

  • Maintain children's health, safety, and well-being at all times.

  • Spend significant time outdoors in all seasons and weather conditions.

Professional Responsibilities

  • Collaborate effectively with colleagues and contribute positively to the school community.

  • Attend staff meetings, professional development opportunities, and school events.

  • Maintain compliance with licensing regulations, health and safety requirements, and school policies.

  • Demonstrate professionalism, flexibility, reliability, and a commitment to continuous learning.

Qualifications

  • Experience working with toddlers or young children.

  • Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education, Child Development, or a related field preferred.

  • Montessori training or experience preferred.

  • Knowledge of child development and developmentally appropriate practices.

  • Strong communication, organizational, and teamwork skills.

  • CPR and First Aid certification, or willingness to obtain certification.

  • Ability to lift, bend, sit on the floor, and actively engage with young children throughout the day.

What We Offer

  • Competitive compensation based on education and experience.

  • Paid holidays and school vacations.

  • Professional development opportunities.

  • Supportive and collaborative work environment.

  • SIMPLE IRA retirement contribution.

  • Opportunity to work in a nature-based Montessori program that values relationships, curiosity, stewardship, and the joy of childhood.

To apply, please submit a resume and cover letter to jenny@willowschoolcumberland.com.