- Creates an environment where the assigned child safely participates in classroom activities and routines.
- Works with the teacher and teacher assistant in developing classroom management skills that support the assigned child's compliance and behavioral/social-emotional growth.
- Supports the implementation of lesson plans and activities developed by the teacher to include personalizing activities to allow the assigned child participation at the highest level possible.
- Collaborates with the Mental Health Professional, Behavior Interventionist(s), the Teacher, the Disability/Mental Health Coordinator, and the parent(s) to plan and implement behavior plans for the assigned child.
- Uses verbal and written communication skills to ensure consistency and clarity between all involved parties on behalf of the assigned child.
- Observes and documents assigned child's strengths and challenges, assesses, and monitors progress for behavior strategy/transition planning.
- Recognizes and differentiates signs of developmental delays and behavioral issues and understands child's special needs per his or her IEP.
- Identifies effective behavioral strategies and educates teachers, staff, parents, and professionals about the strategies.
- Manages challenging behavior of assigned child to foster self-regulation skills and other prosocial skills to prevent or minimize problematic behavior.
- Stands and sits near assigned child and moves to each activity with child to ensure engagement in play and optimal learning experience.
- Walks near assigned child in lines, remains near child during rest and circle time; accompanies the child outside of the classroom to field trips, to the playground, to the restroom, etc.
- Supervises and appropriately supports assigned child in the "calming area"
- Encourages independence by gradually reducing support as the assigned child becomes more capable.
- Participates in pre-service/in-service training and other specified training or professional development opportunities as a condition of employment.
- Accepts all child-specific assignments with a willingness to serve the child at the Head Start Center where the child is attending.
- Performs all other assigned duties.
Must possess a High School Diploma or GED.
Must be able to follow written and oral directions.
Must be willing to obtain a Child Development Associate (CDA) within 2 years.
Must be willing to obtain a CCAA Head Start Child-Specific credential within one school or calendar year.
