Early Years Practitioner

Little Gems Childcare is a full day care service which includes pre- school and afterschool. The Childcare worker may have responsibilities across all parts of the service as required. The Childcare Worker is responsible for providing a safe and developmentally appropriate environment and to implement programmes in accordance with all relevant legislation, policies and procedures. The Childcare worker will be responsible for assisting in the planning and implementing the AISTEAR Curriculum Framework. They must ensure the development and safety of all children in accordance with relevant legislation and policies in both preschool and afterschool settings. The Childcare Worker will be respectful of children and parents, and ensure that equipment and facilities are clean, safe and well maintained. Failure to provide adequate services may place children at risk. RESPONSIBILITIES 1. Implement developmentally appropriate programmes for young children Plan and implement activities, as a member of the childcare team, that meet the physical, emotional, intellectual and social needs of the children attending the service, particularly in line with the AISTEAR Curriculum Framework Provide appropriate activities and ensure the use of adequate equipment Ensure equipment and the facility are clean, well maintained and safe at all times Provide weekly and monthly schedules of activities Develop culturally appropriate programs and activities Develop activities that introduce math and literacy concepts Be familiar with emergency procedures Adhere to the Child protection Policy of Little Gems Childcare Adhere to all policies and procedures of Little Gems Childcare 2. Supervise children in care room/ garden settings Ensure children are supervised at all times Provide various experiences and activities for children including songs, games and storytelling Build childrens esteem and communication skills through age appropriate interaction and activity Ensure that mealtimes are a time of pleasant social sharing Washing and changing children were required Comfort children when required Establish routines and provide positive guidance Provide a safe and secure environment for children to feel comfortable Implement positive discipline when required Clearly and effectively communicate in a manner that children understand Observe children and make note of progress Integrate special needs children in a positive and respectful manner 3. Communicate with parents and members of the community Discuss childrens development with parents Discuss identified problems and needs with professionals as appropriate Promote literacy and early education 4. Maintain program administration Keep parents informed of program expectations, program activities and their childs progress Develop daily activity plans 5. Perform other related duties as required Work as an integral member of the team Set up and clear away at the start and end of each session as required Occasionally work additional hours as required Attend and take part in staff and other relevant meetings To undertake any other duties as may be required from time to time. Personal Specification FETAC Level 5/6 First Aid Certified Manual Handling certified Childcare experience desirable Good interpersonal skills Good communication skills Awareness of health and safety issues and legal requirements relating to a childcare service Appreciation of need for strict confidentiality Honesty and reliability Good time keeping Willingness to work flexible hours Skills: Childcare qualification Early years care Working with children