Knoxville Montessori·Knoxville, Tennessee
The Toddler Playground Assistant provides attentive supervision and creates a nurturing, safe environment for children during the Extended Day Program. They facilitate age-appropriate activities, support social-emotional development, and assist with daily routines like toileting and snack time.
Knoxville Montessori School is seeking a caring, patient, and dependable Toddler Playground Assistant team member to join our Extended Day Program for the 2026–2027 school year. This position provides a safe, nurturing, and engaging after-school environment for children ages 18 months through 3 years while supporting their growing independence, social-emotional development, and love of learning. A Toddler Playground Assistant work closely with the Toddler teaching team to create a calm, predictable environment where young children can transition from the school day into extended care with comfort and confidence. Staff provide attentive supervision, assist with daily routines, facilitate age-appropriate activities, support outdoor exploration, and help children develop practical life skills in accordance with Montessori principles. The ideal candidate is warm, energetic, and responsive to the needs of young children. They enjoy getting on the floor to play, reading stories, singing songs, exploring outdoors, and supporting toddlers as they develop independence, language, and social skills. Essential Responsibilities Child Supervision & Care Provide attentive supervision of toddlers during the Extended Day Program. Ensure the safety and well-being of every child at all times. Build positive, trusting relationships with children through consistent, nurturing interactions. Support children's emotional regulation using respectful guidance and positive behavior support. Assist children with toileting, diapering, handwashing, snack routines, and other daily care needs while maintaining each child's dignity and independence. Help toddlers transition smoothly between activities and routines. Learning & Engagement Plan and facilitate age-appropriate activities including art, sensory experiences, music, movement, practical life activities, stories, and outdoor play. Encourage curiosity, creativity, language development, and independent exploration. Support children's social development by modeling Grace and Courtesy, problem-solving, and respectful communication. Foster independence by encouraging children to complete tasks appropriate to their developmental level. Environment & Classroom Support Prepare and maintain a clean, organized, welcoming environment. Sanitize toys, materials, and classroom spaces according to school procedures. Assist with snack and cleanup. Maintain outdoor play areas and learning materials. Help ensure classrooms remain organized, stocked, and ready for daily use. Communication & Teamwork Communicate professionally Share important information regarding children's well-being with classroom teachers and administration. Work collaboratively with the Toddler team and Extended Day staff. Attend required staff meetings, trainings, and school events. Maintain confidentiality and professionalism at all times.
Must be at least 21 years of age. High school diploma or equivalent required. College coursework or degree in Early Childhood Education, Child Development, Education, or a related field is preferred. Experience working with infants, toddlers, or preschool-aged children in a childcare, Montessori, daycare, preschool, or educational setting is preferred. CPR/First Aid Certification (or willingness to obtain upon hire). Ability to actively supervise children indoors and outdoors, including bending, lifting (up to 40 pounds), sitting on the floor, and engaging in active play. Schedule School Year Monday–Friday Approximately 2:00 PM–6:00 PM Additional hours may be available during: Summer Programs (8:30 AM–4:00 PM) Teacher In-Service Days (8:00 AM–4:00 PM) School Break Programs Compensation $14.25–$18.25 per hour, based on education, experience, certifications, and qualifications through Knoxville Montessori School's point-based compensation scale. Why Join Knoxville Montessori School? At Knoxville Montessori School, we believe the youngest learners deserve a peaceful, respectful environment where they feel safe, valued, and encouraged to become independent. Our Extended Day team plays an essential role in creating a joyful end to each child's day through meaningful relationships, engaging experiences, and compassionate care. If you have a passion for early childhood education and enjoy helping toddlers grow with confidence, curiosity, and kindness, we encourage you to apply. To Apply: Please submit a resume, cover letter, and contact information for three professional references. Questions may be directed to HR@knoxmontessori.org.
Candidates must be at least 21 years old and possess a high school diploma or equivalent. Experience working with young children is preferred, and the ability to perform physical tasks such as lifting up to 40 pounds is required.
Market context
In Tennessee, toddler playground assistant roles often draw steady interest because centers need dependable staff who can supervise young children, support safe play, and handle hands-on tasks. This type of role is competitive when candidates already have childcare experience, meet age and education requirements, and can manage the physical demands of lifting up to 40 pounds. Review the AI-summarized requirements and benefits on this platform to save time, then confirm your availability for active supervision and outdoor child-safety duties before applying.
