HumanKind·Bedford, Virginia
The Assistant Teacher supports the Lead Teacher in daily routines and child-focused activities to nurture development. They are responsible for maintaining a safe, inclusive, and developmentally appropriate environment for infants and toddlers.
Position Title: Early Head Start Assistant Teacher
Location: Bedford, VA
Deadline to Apply: 09/14/26
Do you have a passion for working with young children and want to make a difference in their earliest years? Join our Early Head Start team as an Assistant Teacher, where you’ll support infants and toddlers during their most formative stages of development. This role is a chance to build meaningful relationships, foster emotional and cognitive growth, and contribute to a supportive and enriching classroom environment. If you're patient, energetic, and eager to learn, we invite you to grow with us in this rewarding, team-centered position.
Supporting the Lead Teacher with daily routines and child-focused activities that nurture development.
Creating and maintaining a safe, emotionally secure, and developmentally appropriate environment.
Stepping in confidently to lead the classroom in the absence of the Teacher.
Supporting the implementation of all licensing, Head Start, and nutrition program standards.
Collaborating with team members to ensure all children, regardless of ability, receive inclusive care and support.
Assistant Teacher > Teacher > Supervising Teacher > Center Manager > Director of Early Head Start
Assistant Teacher > Teacher > Education Specialist > Education Manager > Director of Early Head Start
Assistant Teacher > Family Engagement Specialist > Lead Family Engagement Specialist > Family Services Manager > Director of Early Head Start
Assistant Teacher > Health and Disabilities Specialist > Health and Disabilities Manager > Family Services Manager > Director of Early Head Start
Foundational knowledge of infant and toddler development and the ability to work with mixed-age groups.
A flexible, team-oriented attitude and a willingness to step into a variety of roles as needed.
Awareness of (or willingness to learn) state and federal early childhood education standards and safety requirements.
Strong communication skills, professionalism, and a commitment to maintaining confidentiality.
Physical stamina and readiness to engage in active play, indoor and outdoor activities, and child care routines.
At HumanKind, your work has real impact. Whether you’re working directly with children and families or supporting programs behind the scenes, you’ll be able to see how what you do contributes to meaningful outcomes in your community.
We’re a mission-driven, growing organization where your role won’t feel small. You’ll have opportunities to learn, take on new challenges, and grow your career over time. Many of our team members expand their responsibilities or move into new roles as they develop.
You’ll also be part of a supportive, close-knit team that values collaboration, kindness, and showing up for one another. We work hard, but we also enjoy what we do—and who we do it with.
Actively working for equity and inclusivity, practicing humility and curiosity, taking responsibility, continuously evolving for change.
Prioritizing caring for our people, fostering a nurturing environment, celebrating small wins, acknowledging challenges, embracing innovation and adaptability.
Nurturing growth in ourselves and others, leveraging strengths, equipping with tools for success, fostering a positive learning environment.
Staying mission-focused, serving with empathy, putting egos aside, upholding ethics, communicating openly, providing support, and encouraging feedback.
HumanKind is an equal opportunity employer committed to creating an inclusive and welcoming workplace for all employees and applicants.
HumanKind is a drug-free workplace. Employment is contingent upon successfully completing all required background checks and drug screening requirements.
While our recruitment platform may offer optional AI-based tools, HumanKind does not rely on artificial intelligence to evaluate, screen, or disqualify candidates. Every application is reviewed by our team, and applicants have the option to opt out of AI assessments at any time.
Market context
In Virginia, teaching assistant roles are often tied to steady demand in early childhood and school settings, especially where licensed care and classroom support are needed. These positions can be competitive because employers typically look for candidates who meet state licensing requirements and already have experience in a licensed childcare center, with a CDA or Early Childhood Education degree preferred. Review the AI-summarized requirements and benefits here to save research time, then confirm your license status and childcare experience before applying.