TEACHER ASSISTANT - EARLY EDUCATION
Seasonal Position | YMCA of Greater Nashua
Part-Time and Full-Time Opportunities Available
Why This Role Matters
Every interaction you have helps shape a child's confidence, relationships, and sense of belonging. You are not just assisting in a classroom-you are helping children take their first steps toward a healthy, connected, and purposeful life.
POSITION SUMMARY:
As a Teacher Assistant in Early Education, you play a vital role in helping young children begin their journey of achievement, relationships, and belonging. You support classroom teachers in creating a safe, nurturing, and engaging environment where every child can learn, grow, and feel valued.
Guided by the Early Learning Director and Lead Teachers, you will assist in delivering high-quality early childhood experiences across Infant, Toddler, Preschool, Pre-K, and Kindergarten classrooms.
At the YMCA of Greater Nashua, we are more than a childcare provider-we are a community committed to strengthening spirit, mind, and body for all. In this role, you help children build confidence, develop friendships, and feel a sense of belonging from their earliest years.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:
Support Achievement (Helping Children Grow)
Assist teachers in creating positive, developmentally appropriate learning experiences
Encourage curiosity, independence, and confidence in children
Help implement daily activities that support early learning goals
Build Relationships (Creating Connections)
Foster a warm, welcoming environment where children feel safe and supported
Engage positively with children, families, and staff
Support children in developing social skills, friendships, and cooperation
Create Belonging (Ensuring Every Child Feels Valued)
Promote an inclusive environment where all children are respected and celebrated
Use positive, non-punitive guidance techniques that build self-esteem and self-discipline
Help ensure every child feels seen, heard, and included
Program & Operational Support
Maintain active supervision to ensure children's safety at all times
Assist with classroom organization, cleaning, and daily routines
Attend staff meetings and required trainings
Communicate effectively with Lead Teachers regarding child needs and classroom updates
Support families by creating a friendly and professional experience; refer specific concerns appropriately
Complete additional duties as assigned
Assist classroom teachers by providing positive learning experiences for all the children.
Maintain appropriate standards as directed by the teachers for children's behavior using nonpunitive methods which teach self-discipline while supporting children's self-esteem.
Who You Are
Passionate about working with young children and supporting their development
Positive, nurturing, and patient with a solution-oriented mindset
Able to build relationships with people of all ages and backgrounds
Flexible, creative, and a strong team player
Committed to creating a welcoming, inclusive environment for all
Work Environment & Physical Requirements
Must be able to actively supervise and respond quickly to ensure child safety
Ability to move, stand, and engage with children throughout the day
Occasionally lift and/or move up to 10 pounds
Visual abilities include close and distance vision and ability to adjust focus
Reasonable accommodations may be made to support individuals in performing essential functions
YMCA Competencies
Relationships: Builds meaningful connections and communicates effectively
Inclusion: Creates environments where all feel welcome, respected, and valued
Innovation: Brings creativity and new ideas to enhance the member experience
Quality Results: Delivers high-quality experiences for children and families
Self-Development: Seeks growth opportunities and continuous learning
Our Culture
At the Y, our mission and values guide everything we do. We are:
Welcoming: We create spaces where everyone can belong
Genuine: We value and respect each individual
Nurturing: We support growth and development
Hopeful: We believe in each person's potential
Determined: We are committed to strengthening our community
We live our values of caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility in every interaction.