Create and implement developmentally appropriate lesson plans while fostering a safe, inclusive classroom environment. Build strong partnerships with families and mentor teammates to ensure high-quality early childhood education.
Requirements summary
Requires previous experience in a licensed early childhood program and a CPL 3 qualification or higher. Must meet state licensing qualifications and be physically able to lift children up to 70lbs.
Hiring: Experienced Lead Child Care Teacher Lead with Purpose. Inspire Through Play. Build Bright Futures. At Small Hands Big Dreams, we believe exceptional teachers change lives. We're looking for an experienced Lead Child Care Teacher who is passionate about early childhood education and committed to creating meaningful learning experiences for young children. If you believe learning happens through exploration, creativity, laughter, and nurturing relationships—and you're ready to lead a classroom with confidence—we'd love to meet you. As a Lead Teacher, you'll play an essential role in guiding children's development while mentoring teammates, building strong family partnerships, and creating engaging classroom environments where every child can thrive. Full-time and part-time opportunities for float and assistant positions as well. Why Small Hands Big Dreams? For 25 years, Small Hands Big Dreams has earned the highest quality ratings in Ohio by investing in exceptional educators and providing children with outstanding early learning experiences. We are more than a childcare center—we are a community dedicated to helping children, families, and teachers grow together.
Our team lives our
CORE
Values every day: Fun Passionate Customer Focus Integrity Innovation Teamwork If you're looking for a place where your experience is valued, your voice is heard, and your career can continue to grow, you've found it.
What
You'll
Do
As a
Lead
Teacher, you will: Create and implement engaging, developmentally appropriate lesson plans and hands-on learning experiences. Foster a safe, nurturing, and inclusive classroom environment where children feel valued and supported. Ensure the health, safety, and well-being of every child through active supervision and adherence to licensing standards. Build meaningful relationships with families through daily communication, photos, videos, classroom updates, and developmental conversations. Observe, assess, and support each child's individual growth and developmental milestones. Lead classroom routines while maintaining a positive, organized, and engaging learning environment. Collaborate with fellow teachers and leadership to provide the highest quality care and education. Serve as a positive role model by demonstrating professionalism, leadership, and a commitment to continuous learning.
Benefits
Paid Time Off
Competitive Pay
Career Advancement Opportunities
Health Insurance Options
Paid Major Holidays
Paid Birthday Off
Paid Professional Development
What
We're
Looking
For
We're seeking experienced educators who: Have previous experience working in a licensed early childhood program. Demonstrate a genuine passion for educating and nurturing young children. Understand child development and age-appropriate teaching practices. Build positive relationships with children, families, and coworkers. Are dependable, positive, energetic, and committed to excellence. Enjoy working as part of a collaborative team while confidently leading a classroom. Take pride in creating fun, engaging learning experiences every day. Benefits We believe great teachers deserve great support.
We offer: Competitive pay based on experience Paid professional development and career advancement opportunities Supportive leadership and collaborative team culture Begin earning Paid Time Off (PTO) on Day One Paid major holidays Paid birthday off Health insurance options Opportunities to grow your career within a company that promotes from within Ready to Make a Difference? If you're an experienced early childhood educator who believes every day is an opportunity to inspire curiosity, build confidence, and make learning unforgettable, we'd love to welcome you to the Small Hands Big Dreams family. Qualifications I. Educational Requirements A.
Meet all state licensing qualifications (5101:2-12-27) B. CPL 3 or higher II. Physical Requirements A. Lifting and carrying children that may weigh 10- 70lbs. B. Stand up to 90% of the day while supervising the safety of the children
Market context
Ohio childcare roles stay locally competitive
Childcare Lead Teacher openings in Ohio are often driven by steady demand for experienced staff who can support classroom routines, safety, and family communication. This role is competitive because employers typically prefer candidates with prior childcare experience, and a CDA or Early Childhood Education degree can strengthen your application; requirements and benefits here are AI-summarized from the original job description, saving you research time. Before applying, confirm your background and health check readiness and highlight any hands-on classroom experience.
