Early Childhood Education Specialist - Special Needs Focus
Our client, a progressive early learning center dedicated to fostering a nurturing and inclusive environment, is seeking a compassionate and skilled Early Childhood Education Specialist with a focus on special needs to join their team in Salt Lake City, Utah . This role is central to providing specialized educational support and adaptive learning strategies for young children with diverse developmental needs. The ideal candidate will possess a strong background in early childhood education, specialized training or experience in special education, and a genuine passion for making a positive impact on the lives of young children and their families. This position involves both direct interaction with children and collaboration with parents and educators.
Responsibilities
Develop and implement individualized education plans (IEPs) and learning activities for children with special needs. Provide one-on-one and small group instruction tailored to the specific developmental, cognitive, and social-emotional needs of each child. Utilize a variety of evidence-based teaching strategies and adaptive equipment to support learning. Observe and assess children's progress, documenting key milestones and areas for development. Collaborate closely with parents and guardians to share progress, discuss strategies, and provide resources and support. Work in partnership with other classroom teachers, therapists (e.g., speech, occupational, physical), and school administrators to ensure a cohesive support system. Create a safe, stimulating, and inclusive classroom environment that promotes exploration and learning. Adapt curriculum and materials to meet the diverse learning styles and abilities of all children. Assist in the management of challenging behaviors, employing positive behavior support strategies. Maintain accurate and confidential records of student progress, observations, and interventions. Stay current with research and best practices in early childhood education and special education. Participate in professional development opportunities, workshops, and team meetings. Assist in organizing and leading parent education workshops or support groups. Promote social interaction and peer relationships among all children. Ensure adherence to all center policies, licensing requirements, and safety protocols.
Qualifications
Bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education, Special Education, or a closely related field. Master's degree preferred. Minimum of 3 years of experience working directly with young children (ages 0-8) with special needs. Specific training or certification in special education, early intervention, or developmental disabilities. Demonstrated understanding of child development principles and various learning disabilities. Experience in developing and implementing IEPs. Knowledge of positive behavior management techniques. Excellent communication, interpersonal, and collaboration skills. Ability to work effectively with diverse families and professionals. Proficiency in documentation and record-keeping. Patience, empathy, and a genuine love for working with children. Familiarity with relevant assistive technologies and educational tools. CPR and First Aid certification required. Experience with sensory integration techniques is a plus. This is a fulfilling role for an educator passionate about nurturing the potential of every child. Apply To this Job