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Competency Area
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Responsibilities
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Key Behaviors
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Child Development & Learning
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- Support the developmental needs of infants, toddlers, and preschool-aged children
- Implement age-appropriate activities and experiences based on provided lesson plans
- Encourage learning through play, routines, and daily interactions
- Observe children and respond to individual interests, strengths, and needs
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- Engages children at eye level using warm, responsive communication
- Encourages exploration, curiosity, and problem-solving
- Adjusts interactions based on children’s developmental stages
- Demonstrates patience and understanding of young children’s behavior
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Health, Safety, & Nutrition
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- Maintain continuous supervision of children at all times
- Follow health, safety, and sanitation procedures
- Ensure classroom, playground, and materials are safe and developmentally appropriate
- Respond appropriately to accidents, injuries, or emergencies
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- Maintains constant awareness of children’s location and activity
- Anticipates potential safety risks and takes preventive action
- Follows emergency and reporting procedures without delay
- Models safe practices for children
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Classroom Management & Behavior Guidance
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- Follow established classroom routines, schedules, and expectations
- Use positive behavior guidance strategies consistent with program policies
- Support smooth transitions throughout the day
- Assist children in developing self-regulation and social skills
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- Responds calmly and consistently to challenging behaviors
- Uses redirection and encouragement rather than punishment
- Maintains a structured yet flexible classroom environment
- Reinforces positive behaviors through modeling and praise
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Relationships & Cultural Responsiveness
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- Build respectful, nurturing relationships with children
- Support an inclusive classroom that reflects diverse cultures and abilities
- Interact professionally and respectfully with families and staff
- Support children with disabilities or special needs as directed
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- Demonstrates respect for diverse family values, cultures, and languages
- Uses inclusive language and practices
- Shows empathy and sensitivity to children’s individual experiences
- Collaborates effectively with classroom staff and support services
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Professionalism & Ethical Practice
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- Follow Head Start Performance Standards, licensing requirements, and program policies
- Maintain confidentiality of children, families, and staff information
- Accept direction from supervisors and teaching team members
- Report concerns related to child safety, behavior, or health
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- Arrives on time and prepared for assignments
- Demonstrates flexibility when placed in different classrooms or age groups
- Seeks clarification when expectations are unclear
- Maintains appropriate professional boundaries at all times
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Communication & Team Collaboration
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- Communicate effectively with Lead Teachers, Assistant Teachers, and supervisors
- Share relevant information about the classroom day as needed
- Complete basic classroom documentation when assigned
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- Listens actively and follows instructions
- Communicates clearly, respectfully, and professionally
- Works cooperatively as part of a teaching team
- Maintains a positive, supportive attitude
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