Sunny Hollow·St. Paul, Minnesota
Support the Lead Guide in maintaining a respectful, orderly Montessori classroom and assisting with the social and cognitive development of toddlers. Responsibilities include preparing classroom materials, supervising children during work cycles, and managing daily routines like snack and self-care.
Job Description: Job Title: Toddler/Casa Assistant Department: Education
[x] 35 – 40 hrs/wk [☐] 20 – 35 hrs/wk [☐] less than 20 hrs/wk
The Toddler Assistant is a key support role in the daily functioning of a Montessori environment. This position is responsible for assisting the Lead Guide in maintaining an orderly, respectful, and developmentally aligned classroom that reflects core Montessori principles. The assistant contributes to the social, emotional, and cognitive development of children by modeling appropriate behavior, supporting independence, and ensuring a calm and prepared learning environment. The assistant does not deliver formal lessons but provides indirect support that enables children to engage in uninterrupted work and meaningful exploration.
Education & Experience
Bachelor’s degree preferred in education or a related field or equivalent experience. AMS or AMI Credential/Diploma or currently in training is preferred.
Experience working in an early childhood setting is required. Experience in a Montessori school is strongly preferred.
Must meet state or local licensing requirements (e.g., CPR/First Aid, background check, mandated DHS trainings). For a full list of licensor requirements, view Assistant teacher education and experience requirements. Capacity to follow detailed instructions, maintain a high standard of cleanliness and order, and engage with young children in a grounded and compassionate manner. Deep respect for children and belief in their potential. Patience, calm presence, and ability to regulate one’s own emotions in a fast-paced environment. Ability to observe rather than direct, allowing children space to explore. Commitment to equity, inclusion, and culturally responsive practices. Openness to feedback, coaching, and collaborative growth.
Instructional Support Reinforce ground rules and expectations established by the Lead Guide. Offer gentle guidance during work time, such as helping children return materials to their proper places or waiting for their turn to speak. Provide a quiet, respectful presence to help maintain a focused work atmosphere. At the discretion of the Lead Guide, support individual or group practice with materials.
Observation and Documentation Observe children's behaviors, interests, and emerging skills throughout the day. Record relevant observations as requested by the Lead Guide to inform individual and group planning. Communicate patterns or concerns promptly and professionally to the Lead Guide. Complete Daily Tracking requirements per DHS (Toddlers only).
Physical Requirements Ability to move easily between standing, sitting on the floor, kneeling, bending, and lifting. Ability to lift up to 40 pounds (e.g., child, classroom materials, laundry). Regular exposure to outdoor weather during recess and nature walks. May be exposed to cleaning agents and child-generated messes.
We offer comprehensive benefits including health, dental, and vision insurance, a retirement savings plan, paid time off, and more. Sunny Hollow Montessori is an affirmative action and equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, age, protected veteran or disabled status, or genetic information. Please visit our website at Welcome to Sunny Hollow Montessori | Guiding children from infancy to adulthood
Requires experience in early childhood settings and meeting state licensing requirements, with a preference for a Bachelor's degree and Montessori credentials. Candidates must possess a deep respect for children, patience, and the physical ability to lift up to 40 pounds.
Market context
In Minnesota, toddler assistant roles are typically driven by ongoing demand for licensed early childhood care, especially for ages 16–35 months. These positions can be competitive because employers often look for experience in early childhood settings, state licensing readiness, and preferred credentials such as a bachelor’s degree or Montessori training, along with patience and the ability to lift up to 40 pounds. Review the AI-summarized requirements and benefits here to save time, then confirm your fit against the original posting before applying.
