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Child Development Center Assistant Jobs in Washington

House of Ruth

Assistant Teacher

Washington, DC · On-site

$48K - $52K/yr

Assistant Teacher ID: 1043 Location: Washington, DC More about this job > Description Job Title ... Child Development Center *House of Ruth salaries may be adjusted up or down contingent on the ...

Sylvan Learning Center

Center Assistant

Falls Church, VA · On-site

$15 - $18/hr

Sylvan Learning Center - Hiring for Highly Skilled Center Assistant Are you looking for a fun ... Choosing Sylvan is about getting results and setting your child up for long-term success. At Sylvan ...

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Child Development Center Assistant information

What is a child development center assistant?

Child Development Center Assistants are professionals who support the daily operations of childcare centers or preschools. They help lead teachers care for and supervise children, assist with educational activities, ensure the safety and well-being of children, and maintain a clean and organized environment. Their role is essential in fostering a nurturing and developmentally appropriate atmosphere for young children to learn and grow. They may also help with meal preparation, record keeping, and communicating with parents.

How does a child development center assistant typically collaborate with lead teachers and other staff to support children's learning and development?

Child Development Center Assistants work closely with lead teachers by helping to implement lesson plans, supervising children during activities, and maintaining a safe, nurturing environment. They often assist with classroom management, prepare materials for activities, and observe children to provide feedback on their progress. Collaboration also includes participating in team meetings and communicating regularly with other staff members to ensure consistency in care and educational approaches. This teamwork is essential for addressing individual children's needs and ensuring a cohesive, supportive atmosphere.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a child development center assistant, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Child Development Center Assistant, you need a foundational understanding of early childhood education, child safety, and basic caregiving skills, often supported by a high school diploma or coursework in child development. Familiarity with classroom management systems, child observation tools, and health/safety protocols is typically required. Patience, strong communication, and the ability to engage positively with children and staff are standout soft skills. These abilities ensure a safe, nurturing environment that supports children’s growth and learning while maintaining effective center operations.

What is the difference between Child Development Center Assistant vs Preschool Teacher?

AspectChild Development Center AssistantPreschool Teacher
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some positions may require CPR certificationHigh school diploma; often required to have early childhood education credentials or CDA
Work EnvironmentChildcare centers, daycare facilities, early learning programsPreschools, early childhood education centers, private or public schools
Employer & Industry UsageChildcare providers, daycare centers, early childhood programsPreschools, private and public educational institutions
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

The Child Development Center Assistant typically supports daily activities, supervises children, and assists teachers in early childhood settings. A Preschool Teacher usually plans and implements educational activities, manages classroom curriculum, and fosters learning. While both roles work in early childhood environments and may require similar certifications, Preschool Teachers generally have more responsibility for curriculum development and lesson planning.

What cities in Washington are hiring for Child Development Center Assistant jobs?

Cities in Washington with the most Child Development Center Assistant job openings:

Child Development Specialist

Falls Church, VA • On-site

Positive Development
Health Care and Social Assistance • 201 - 500 employees
Learn more about Positive Developmentexternal

$22 - $28/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 9 days ago

Positive Development rating

8.7

Company rating: 8.7 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Title: Child Development Specialist
Work Location:
Job Type: Part-time
Pay: $22-$28 per hour
Our Mission:
Make a real impact. Build real skills. Grow with us.
At Positive Development, we believe every child deserves the chance to grow, learn, and thrive and every burgeoning professional deserves meaningful work that builds real skills for the future.
We work one-on-one with autistic children, helping them build communication, social, and daily living skills through play-based, relationship-focused interactions.
Why This Role is Different:
This isn't a passive "observe and assist" job. You'll be actively coaching, connecting, and helping children grow; while gaining experience that's highly relevant for careers in:
  • Psychology
  • Social Work
  • Occupational Therapy
  • Speech Language Pathology
  • Education and Special Education
  • Counseling
  • Medicine and Health

This work is deeply rewarding, but it requires patience, emotional maturity, and commitment. You'll be supported every step of the way by experienced clinicians and supervisors who are invested in your growth.
We're especially excited to meet candidates who are:
  • Passionate about working with children and teens
  • Curious about human development and learning
  • Patient, empathetic, and enthusiastic
  • Reliable and committed to a consistent schedule (kids depend on consistency!)
  • Comfortable working directly with families in home-based setting

Great fits include:
Education majors, psychology students, pre-meds, nursing students, OT/SLP hopefuls, behavior technicians, camp counselors, teacher's assistants, childcare providers, direct support professionals, and caregivers.
What you'll do as a Child Development Specialist:
You'll work one-on-one with children in their homes and/or center based to:
  • Build communication, social, and daily living skills through play, conversation, and shared activities
  • Create meaningful connections that help children think, create, and engage with the world
  • Follow a relationship-based intervention model designed to achieve strong outcomes with fewer session hours
  • Track progress by documenting session notes and goal outcomes
  • Collaborate closely with clinicians and supervisors to build clinical skills and confidence
  • Learn how evidence-based developmental care works in real life, not just in textbooks

Pay and Schedules:
  • Direct Pay: $22-$28/hour (based on experience and education)
  • Training / Admin Pay: $20/hour
  • Part-time schedules:
  • 3, 4, or 5 days per week M-F (most available hours are 3pm-8pm)
  • Or Saturday and Sunday (most available hours are between 9a-3pm)
  • Paid drive time + mileage reimbursement (IRS rate) between clients

This role is ideal for students balancing classes, internships, or graduate school.
Requirements:
  • High School Diploma or GED (must be 18+)
  • Valid driver's license + reliable transportation (30-40 min drive radius).
  • Ability to complete physical tasks, including:
  • Playing on the floor/ground for up to two-three hours per session
  • Lifting/carrying up to 40 lbs
  • Sitting, kneeling, crouching, or moving quickly to ensure child safety
  • Strong communication skills and professionalism with families and teammates

Training, growth, and career development:
We invest in you because strong clinicians start with strong support.
  • You don't need to be an expert- we'll train you.
  • Paid New Hire Training
  • Ongoing coaching and mentorship from expert clinicians
  • Opportunities for role progression, pay increases, and performance bonuses
  • Exposure to a cutting-edge model of autism care with measurable outcome

Benefits and Perks:
  • $1000 Referral Bonus
  • Monthly Technology Stipend
  • Paid drive time at admin rate + mileage reimbursement between clients
  • Paid training
  • Strong performers may request letters of recommendation for graduate or professional programs

Positive Development is an Equal Opportunity Employer (EOE).
Employment is contingent upon clearing a background check and successful completion of training.

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