Part-time Preschool Teacher @ Little Woods Preschool in Minnetonka

A dynamic forum focused on the experience of childhood and the process of learning

Little Woods Preschool is a small, home-based nature preschool located in Minnetonka, Minnesota. Founded in 2023, our mission is to nurture confidence, curiosity, authenticity, and kindness through a blend of nature-based learning, Reggio Emilia inspiration, Montessori principles, and child-led play. Our class size is capped at 12 children, with a 1:6 adult to child ratio.

As a member of the Little Woods team, you'll work alongside the Lead Teacher or a fellow co-teacher to support children ages 3–5. This position begins with 8–12 hours per week during the summer (June through mid-August) and expands to 15–20 hours per week during the school year (September–May) as responsibilities increase. Tuesday availability required for Summer. Our days start at 8:30 am and end at 4:45 pm, Monday–Thursday.

Shifts are 4–6 hours and may extend beyond those hours to include prep or cleaning.

• Supervise and support children ages 3–5 throughout the preschool day in various seasons and weather conditions
• Nurture individual needs of children while managing whole group experiences
• Foster a warm, respectful, and emotionally safe environment
• Allow children to explore physical boundaries through risky play while prioritizing safety and supervision
• Demonstrate enthusiasm for learning and encourage inquiry, experimentation, nature exploration, creative expression, and hands‑on experiences
• Support children’s social‑emotional development through positive guidance, relationship‑building, modeling respectful behavior and mediating conflict resolution
• Assist with daily routines, transitions, snack, rest, toileting, and classroom care
• Help prepare and maintain safe, clean, and inviting indoor and outdoor environments
• Participate in planning and execution of activities and environments, contribute ideas, make recommendations for improvement, request supplies or materials when needed
• Communicate openly and effectively with fellow co‑teachers and Lead Teacher
• Assist in documenting learning through taking photos and notes
• Foster close relationships with parents and families

• Reveres and respects children, our planet, and all living things
• Values play and hands‑on exploration
• Feels energized by outdoor learning and connecting with nature
• Forms secure attachments with children by being attuned, connected, and nurturing
• Sets boundaries when needed, while allowing space and freedom for child‑led play
• Is warm, patient, playful, and emotionally grounded
• Is dependable, communicative, and collaborative
• Is proactive and demonstrates initiative
• Can balance flexibility with consistency
• Can adapt and independently problem‑solve unanticipated situations
• Is curious, reflective, and has a "always learning" mindset
• Respects children’s ideas, capabilities, and individuality
• Is comfortable getting muddy, carrying sticks, singing songs, telling stories, and embracing the unexpected adventures that come with preschool life

• Experience working with preschool‑aged children as a teacher, assistant teacher, nanny, camp counselor, outdoor educator, or similar role. Outdoor or nature‑based experience ideal.
• Coursework or a degree in Early Childhood Education, Child Development, Elementary Education, Environmental Education, or a related field (preferred but not required)
• Familiarity with nature‑based education, Reggio Emilia, Montessori, Waldorf, or other child‑centered approaches
• CPR and First Aid certification (or willingness to obtain training within 30 days of hire)
• Must pass state of MN background check and physician’s report

• This position can be physically demanding;
  Candidate must be able to walk, run, balance, sit, stoop, kneel, crouch, stand, lift and/or move up to 50 pounds.
• Candidates must be comfortable working outdoors in various seasons, weather conditions and environments. This includes sun, rain, mud, snow, ice, wind, humidity, heat and cold.

Pay: $20–26 per hour; based on experience, qualifications, and alignment with the role.

• Paid training as needed
• Free snacks while working
• Opportunities for professional development
• Sick and Safe time
• Paid Family & Medical Leave

At Little Woods Preschool, we believe our community is enriched by diverse backgrounds, perspectives, and life experiences. We are committed to creating an inclusive, welcoming environment for children, families, and staff. We encourage applicants of all backgrounds and identities to apply.