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Early Learning Mentor Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Armed Services YMCA of The U S A

The Early Learning Teacher is responsible for developing a cohesive teaching and mentoring team, coordinating the curriculum, and managing the day-to-day operational activities of learning programs ...

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How much do early learning mentor jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for early learning mentor in the United States is $19.06, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.90 and $22.60 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an early learning mentor?

An Early Learning Mentor is a professional who supports and guides early childhood educators, caregivers, and sometimes parents in fostering young children's learning and development. They provide coaching, share best practices, and help create effective learning environments for children typically from birth to age 5. Their role often involves observing classrooms, offering feedback, and facilitating professional development. Early Learning Mentors play a crucial part in improving the quality of early childhood education by empowering educators to implement evidence-based teaching strategies.

How does an early learning mentor typically collaborate with teachers and parents to support children's development?

Early Learning Mentors work closely with teachers by providing guidance on curriculum implementation, sharing effective teaching strategies, and modeling best practices in the classroom. They also engage with parents through regular communication, workshops, and progress updates to ensure consistency between home and school learning environments. This collaborative approach helps create a supportive network around each child, enabling more personalized and effective development. Building strong relationships with both educators and families is a key part of daily and weekly responsibilities for Early Learning Mentors.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an early learning mentor, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Early Learning Mentor, you need a solid understanding of early childhood education principles, child development, and often a relevant qualification such as a diploma or degree in early childhood education. Familiarity with assessment tools, curriculum planning software, and child observation systems is also valuable. Outstanding communication, patience, and the ability to build trusting relationships with both children and educators set exceptional mentors apart. These skills are essential for fostering supportive learning environments and effectively guiding both children and staff in their growth and development.

What is the difference between Early Learning Mentor vs Early Childhood Educator?

AspectEarly Learning MentorEarly Childhood Educator
QualificationsTypically requires a relevant childcare or education qualification, such as a Level 3 or 4 in childcare or early years educationRequires a similar qualification, often a Level 3 Diploma in Early Childhood Education or equivalent
Work EnvironmentFocuses on mentoring and supporting early years staff, working in childcare settings, training centers, or local authoritiesWorks directly with children in nurseries, preschools, or early years settings
Employer & Industry UsageUsed by training providers, local authorities, and childcare organizations to improve staff skillsEmployed by nurseries, preschools, and early years centers to deliver direct care and education

While both roles require similar qualifications and work within early childhood settings, the Early Learning Mentor primarily supports and trains staff, whereas the Early Childhood Educator works directly with children. The mentor role emphasizes professional development, while the educator role focuses on delivering early learning experiences.

What do you need to be an early learning mentor?

To become an early learning mentor, candidates typically need a background in early childhood education or a related field, along with relevant experience working with young children. Certifications such as a Child Development Associate (CDA) credential or equivalent are often required, and strong communication and mentoring skills are essential. Some positions may also require background checks and ongoing professional development.
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What job categories do people searching Early Learning Mentor jobs look for?

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Early Learning Mentor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Early Learning Mentor job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 23% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,653 per year, or $19.1 per hour.

Early Learning Mentor Coach

College of Southern Idaho

Twin Falls, ID

Full-time

Posted 24 days ago

Job description

SUMMARY OF POSITION: This position is responsible for providing ongoing training, mentoring and technical assistance to Head Start teaching staff.  Early Learning Mentor Coach’s will provide leadership and ongoing training for the teachers assigned to their area in a manner that effectively communicates best practices and models’ comprehensive services as outlined in Head Start Early Learning Outcomes Framework and Performance Standards.

TYPICAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES ESSENTIAL:

1.     Treat participants, fellow staff and community members with positive regard.

2.      Ensure successful implementation of the Early Learning Mentor Coach program plans and

        operational procedures. 

3.     Conduct center site observations to promote developmentally appropriate practices, sound

        program approaches to delivery of services, and impart culturally and linguistically

        appropriate beliefs.

4.     Administer the Classroom Assessment Scoring System (CLASS) when needed to provide

        data driven coaching, support and ongoing training needs. Utilize the Coaching Companion

        program to implement coaching strategies and outcomes.

5.     Provide one-to-one mentor coaching strategies for improving teacher-child interactions and

        how to work with culturally, linguistically, and developmentally diverse groups of children.

6.     Use PQA (Preschool Quality Assessment) and CLASS (Classroom Assessment Scoring System)

        data to support coaching and mentoring strategies.

7.     Conduct small group meetings for teaching staff to discuss appropriate curriculum planning

        and implementation, the ongoing assessment process, and how  to individualize curriculum.

8.     Provide support for Family Educator, Home Base staff using Partners for Healthy Babies

        Curriculum.

9.     Attend two socializations each year in all home-based units to provide coaching support with a

        family focused perspective.   

10.   Conduct small group meetings for teaching staff to discuss appropriate curriculum planning

        and implementation, the ongoing assessment process, and how to individualize curriculum.

11.   Provide informal learning opportunities for teachers to reflect on and apply theory and

        learning to everyday practice.

12.   Maintain knowledgeable on the program’s curriculum and operational procedures related to

        early care and education.

13.   When appropriate assist with the collection and gathering of child progress data.

14.   Maintain documentation of all services provided and reports submitted.

15.   Distribute latest research-based resources, and materials.

16.   Attend all required meetings, pre-service, in-service, and other training as required.

17.   Participate in an individualized continuing education plan including CPR and First Aid.

ADDITIONAL:

  • Perform other  duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS ESSENTIAL:

  1. Baccalaureate degree in Early Childhood Education or closely related field
  2. Evidence of a continuing commitment to personal growth
  3. Thorough knowledge of:
    • Theory and practice in family focused intervention strategies
    • Revised Head Start/Early Head Start performance standards
    • NAEYC accreditation requirements
  1. Experience in:
    • Classroom experience with preschool children
    • Family focused intervention strategies
    • Supervising paraprofessional staff and/or volunteers providing health information and referral
  1. Excellent oral and written communication skills
  2. Knowledge of management practices and supervision experience possibly from a variety of sources
  3. Enthusiasm for the program
  4. An awareness that individuals can choose to effect change
  5. Ability to transfer information effectively to Assistant Teachers and Classroom Assistants
  6. Complete criminal record check from Department of Health & Welfare’s Criminal History Unit prior to consideration for hire

ADDITIONAL:

  • Advanced degree in Early Childhood Education or closely related field
  • Fluency in Sign Language, Spanish, or other language
  • Current or former Head Start/Early Head Start parent

Required Skills
Required Experience

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