Children & Families of Iowa·Des Moines, Iowa
Create engaging activities to help children learn and thrive while providing a safe and supportive environment. Build lasting bonds with children and implement lesson plans that include art and hands-on exploration.
Description At Children & Families of Iowa, we’re not your typical childcare center. We’re a place where you get to grow, thrive, and make a difference—while being supported every step of the way.
Balance & Flexibility – Flexible schedules designed for students and busy professionals, so you can earn while you learn.
Time for You – 80 hours of vacation after just 90 days + up to 480 hours of paid sick leave.
Celebrate & Recharge – 8 paid holidays every year.
Health & Peace of Mind – Medical, dental, vision, and company-paid life insurance (with optional extras to fit your needs).
Your Future Secured – 401k with company match + short- and long-term disability coverage.
Extra Support – Employee Assistance Program and an Employee Referral Bonus (get rewarded for bringing friends along).
How You’ll Make an Impact (and Feel It Too) Spark joy and creativity through fun, engaging activities that help kids heal, learn, and thrive.
Be the trusted adult who helps children—especially those with special needs or past trauma—feel safe, seen, and supported.
Watch your lesson plans come to life with art, field trips, and hands-on exploration.
Build lasting bonds while helping kids grow socially, emotionally, and physically.
Work in a playful, encouraging environment where your ideas matter.
Why You’ll Love It Here You’re not just filling a role—you’re joining a mission.
Every day, you’ll leave knowing you made a real difference in a child’s life.
And we’ll be right beside you, cheering you on and giving you the tools to succeed.
Be part of something extraordinary. Apply today and start building a career that makes an impact!
What You’ll Need to Join Us A high school diploma or GED is required. Childcare experience and a love for helping kids grow. A Child Development Associate (CDA) credential – or the commitment to earn it within 18 months of starting (we’ll support you along the way!). For Early Head Start (ages 6 weeks–36 months), a CDA with Infant/Toddler coursework is required—or the willingness to complete it within the same 18-month timeline. An Associate’s degree (AA) in Early Childhood Education or actively working toward one is preferred.
Market context
In Iowa, assistant childcare floater roles are often needed to help centers cover classrooms, breaks, and daily routines. This role is competitive because it requires both childcare experience and a CDA credential, or a plan to earn one within 18 months, while offering standard benefits like medical, dental, vision, paid holidays, and vacation. Review the AI-summarized requirements and benefits here to quickly compare fit, then confirm your experience with young children and your CDA timeline before applying.
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