Early Childhood Development Specialist

Summary

The Early Childhood Development Specialist/Admissions is responsible for the development of client individual treatment plans and the supervision of habilitative service delivery to children.

• Has a bachelor’s degree AND at least one (1) of the following:
  • An Early Childhood or Early Childhood Special Education certificate;
  • Current child development associate’s certificate;
  • Current birth to pre‑K credential;
    OR
  • Documented experience working with children with special needs AND twelve (12) hours of completed college courses in early childhood, child development, special education, elementary education, or child and family studies.
• At least one year of experience working with developmentally at‑risk children preferred
• At least one year of experience in managing early childhood staff in an early intervention program preferred
• CPR/First Aid Certification required
• Must pass criminal background check

Required Skills/Abilities:

• Computer Proficient
  • Basic navigational skills for Windows operating system
  • Ability to write and send professional emails in Microsoft Outlook
  • Basic use of Microsoft Word and Excel
• Excellent communication skills with parents, families, and coworkers
• Ability to be patient and understanding when working with children and interacting with parents
• Knowledge of childcare principles and procedures
• Ability to relate to children and make the childcare facility an enjoyable atmosphere
• Knowledge of early childhood teaching strategies
• Exceptional planning and organizational skills
• Effective problem‑solving skills
• Ability to remain calm in stressful situations

• Completes written documentation and reports in a timely manner, including assessments/evaluations, monthly notes, quarterly progress reports, annual reviews, and related services.
• Participates in the Interdisciplinary Team process by developing and implementing Individual Treatment Plans for clients in the center‑based setting.
• Assists with client referrals, screenings, and intake processes.
• Ensures entry of client service data in Therap, the Agency’s online documentation system.
• Monitors and checks the implementation of the curriculum, individual treatment plans, and lesson plans on a weekly basis.
  • Ensures program activities include areas of cognition, communication, social and emotional, motor, and adaptive skills.
  • Works openly and cooperatively with the Program Manager in supporting the Early Intervention Day Treatment (EIDT) Program.
  • Observes and trains Teacher Assistants, regarding curriculum implementation, activities related to individual treatment plans, and behavior management, as needed.
  • Knows and complies with the Texas Minimum standards for Child‑Care Centers.
  • Knows and complies with Rules for the Arkansas Division of Developmental Disabilities Early Intervention Day Treatment.
  • Assists in maintaining an environment conducive to preventative discipline.
  • Interacts with children in a positive manner.
  • Represents the program to parents, visitors, and the public in a positive way.
  • Immediately reports any information regarding health and safety concerns to the Program Manager and/or Nurse.
  • Ensures that no child is abused, neglected, or exploited while in the care of the center; and reports suspected abuse, neglect, or exploitation of children to Texas Department of Family and Protective Services as specified in the Texas Family Code.
  • Completes required annual training.
  • Performs duties and responsibilities in a manner consistent with the five core values of Opportunities, Inc.
    
    -integrity, compassion, accountability, respect, and excellence (iCARE).
• Performs any other related duties as required or assigned.

• Prolonged periods of standing and frequent bending.
• Must be able to lift up to 50 pounds at a time.
• Will be exposed to illness‑causing bacteria and viruses.

Supervisory responsibilities
:
Preschool Teachers – As directed.