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Childcare Program Assistant Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

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Child Care Program Assistant

Staples, MN · On-site

$15.25 - $17.75/hr

The Child Care Program Assistant assists with administrative tasks, program activities, staff ... Relevant education, childcare experience, administrative experience, and/or experience working with ...

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Childcare Program Assistant information

What does a childcare program assistant do?

A Childcare Program Assistant supports teachers and caregivers in creating a safe, nurturing, and stimulating environment for children. Their duties often include supervising play activities, assisting with meals and hygiene, helping to implement daily lesson plans, and maintaining a clean space. They also help monitor children's behavior, communicate with parents, and ensure the overall well-being of the children in their care. This role is essential for the smooth operation of childcare centers and early childhood programs.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a childcare program assistant, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Childcare Program Assistant, you need a background in early childhood education, basic first aid/CPR certification, and experience working with children. Familiarity with child care management software, lesson planning tools, and state safety regulations is often required. Patience, strong communication, and the ability to engage positively with both children and parents are crucial soft skills. These abilities ensure a safe, nurturing, and developmentally supportive environment for children in care.

What are some common challenges faced by childcare program assistants, and how can they be addressed?

Childcare Program Assistants often encounter challenges such as managing diverse groups of children with varying needs, handling behavioral issues, and maintaining effective communication with parents and staff. To address these challenges, it's important to be adaptable, patient, and proactive in learning positive behavior management techniques. Regular collaboration with lead teachers and open communication with families can help create a supportive and structured environment, making it easier to address individual and group needs effectively.

What is the difference between Childcare Program Assistant vs Childcare Provider?

AspectChildcare Program AssistantChildcare Provider
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma; CPR/First Aid certification often preferredHigh school diploma; CPR/First Aid certification often preferred
Work EnvironmentAssists in childcare centers, schools, or community programsWorks directly with children in daycare, home-based, or community settings
Employer & Industry UsageChildcare centers, schools, non-profitsDaycare centers, private homes, community organizations
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

The main difference is that a Childcare Program Assistant typically supports the childcare team with administrative and supervisory tasks, while a Childcare Provider works directly with children, providing care and supervision. Both roles require similar credentials and are found in similar settings, but their responsibilities differ in scope and focus.

What cities in Minnesota are hiring for Childcare Program Assistant jobs?

Cities in Minnesota with the most Childcare Program Assistant job openings:

Childcare Program Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Childcare Program Assistant job openings in Minnesota as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, and 20% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

Junior Explorers Program Assistant

Minnetonka, MN • On-site

Minnetonka Public Schools
501 - 1,000 employees
Learn more about Minnetonka Public Schoolsexternal

$19.65/hr

Other

Medical, Dental

Re-posted 2 days ago

Minnetonka Public Schools rating

9.0

Company rating: 9.0 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

13th of 645 rated elementary and secondary schools

Job description

Junior Explorers Program Assistant

JobID: 9435

  • Position Type:

    Community Education/ Explorers Program Assistant

  • Date Posted:

    7/7/2026

  • Location:

    Minnetonka Community Education

  • Date Available:

    08/24/2026

  • Closing Date:

    Open until filled

Link for Work for Explorers Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TB0eQyMcPw4

Link for Explorers Childcare Program Site: https://www.minnetonkaschools.org/district/mcec/explorers

Assignment:

Monday-Friday 11:30-5:30

Wages and Benefits:

$19.65 per hour

Click here to view rates for this position. (https://www.minnetonkaschools.org/district/leadership/board/policy/440) Rates can be found in Appendix B.

Medical and dental benefit eligible for full-time positions 30 hours or more. Click here to view benefit details for Minnetonka Community Education employees. (https://www.minnetonkaschools.org/district/departments/hr/employee-contracts)

Primary Objective of Position:

  • To support and supervise children before and after school at Minnetonka Community Education Center. Implement activities, manage program spaces and supervise children. Ensure the safety of all students.

Job Responsibilities:

  • Implement activities, manage program spaces, supervise and provide guidance for students.

  • Assist with preparing project supplies and activities for students.

  • Provide a safe, caring, fun environment for children including use of the site tracking system.

  • Support students and ensure safety during non-school day programming both at our schools and on field trips in the community.

  • Establish a positive and friendly relationship with parents.

  • Performs other duties of a similar nature or level.

Position Specific Responsibilities Might Include:

  • Maintain a high level of confidentiality and professionalism.

  • Attend monthly staff meetings.

Training and Experience:

  • Complete required child care, first aid & CPR training prior to the first day of employment. Online training links will be provided by employer.

  • Complete a required number of staff development hours annually.

Knowledge and Skills (position requirements at entry):

  • Evidence of understanding of and willingness to abide by confidentiality policy and practice.

  • Demonstrated ability to take initiative.

  • Evidence of organizational and communication skills.

  • Proven record of punctuality and responsibility.

  • Evidence of passion for working with children.

  • Evidence of ability to accept direction and work as a team member.

  • Positive interpersonal skills (relates well to children and adults) as applied to interaction with coworkers, supervisor, the general public, etc. sufficient to exchange or convey information and to receive work direction.

Physical Requirements:

Medium Work: Exerting up to 50 pounds of force occasionally, and/or up to 20 pounds of force frequently, and/or up to 10 pounds of force constantly to move objects.

What Minnetonka Public Schools employees say

Hours and flexibility

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