Childcare Teacher at Maxs Playhouse - Work and Learn Indiana

Description

Our organization is a licensed childcare center in Indiana that serves children ages 6 weeks through 12 years old. We follow the Montessori pedagogy, which emphasizes child-led learning, independence, hands-on exploration, and respect for each child’s developmental pace. Our classrooms are thoughtfully prepared environments spanning infant, toddler, primary, and school-age programs, allowing children to develop academically, socially, and emotionally in a cohesive, mixed-age setting.

Our internship program is designed to provide hands-on, practical experience in early childhood education within a Montessori framework. Interns are immersed in daily classroom operations and gain exposure to age-appropriate curriculum planning, behavior guidance, classroom management, and family engagement.

Interns will receive structured supervision, training, and mentorship from multiple levels of staff:

The Center Director provides overall program oversight, professional guidance, and periodic check-ins to support the intern’s growth and ensure alignment with licensing and program standards.
Lead Montessori Guides (teachers) serve as the intern’s primary mentors, offering daily supervision, modeling Montessori practices, and providing feedback on classroom interactions and lesson delivery.
Assistant teachers support day-to-day coaching, helping interns learn routines, transitions, and child supervision techniques.

Training will include orientation to Indiana childcare licensing regulations, health and safety procedures, and an introduction to Montessori philosophy and materials. Interns will also receive ongoing, informal coaching through observation, reflection, and feedback, as well as opportunities to ask questions and discuss challenges.

The learning goals for the intern include:

Developing an understanding of Montessori philosophy and how it is applied across different age groups
Building skills in classroom management, observation, and positive behavior guidance
Learning how to prepare and maintain an engaging, developmentally appropriate environment
Gaining experience in supporting children’s independence and social-emotional development
Understanding licensing requirements, safety protocols, and professional standards in early childhood settings
Strengthening communication skills with children, staff, and families

By the end of the internship, we expect the intern to demonstrate increased confidence in working with children, a foundational understanding of Montessori practices, and the ability to contribute meaningfully to a classroom environment.

Responsibilities

Assist Lead Guides and Assistant Teachers in daily classroom operations across infant, toddler, primary, and school-age environments

Support the implementation of Montessori lessons by observing, preparing, and (when appropriate) presenting materials under supervision
Help maintain a clean, organized, and developmentally appropriate prepared environment
Supervise children to ensure safety at all times, including during transitions, outdoor play, meals, and rest periods
Model and reinforce positive behavior guidance strategies aligned with Montessori principles
Assist with daily routines such as snack/meal service, diapering/toileting, and nap/rest time (as appropriate to age group)
Observe children and document developmental progress, behaviors, and milestones as directed by supervising staff
Support individualized learning by engaging children in purposeful activities that promote independence and concentration
Communicate respectfully and professionally with children, staff, and families
Follow all Indiana childcare licensing regulations, as well as center policies and procedures related to health, safety, and supervision
Participate in staff meetings, trainings, and reflective supervision sessions when available
Maintain confidentiality and professionalism at all times
Assist with classroom setup, transitions, and end-of-day closing tasks

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Qualifications

Genuine interest in working with children across a wide age range (6 weeks–12 years)
Patient, calm, and nurturing demeanor, especially in high-energy or challenging situations
Observant and attentive, with the ability to notice children’s needs, behaviors, and developmental cues
Respectful of children’s independence and capable of supporting child-led learning without over-directing
Strong sense of responsibility and reliability; consistently shows up prepared and engaged
Positive attitude and willingness to learn from feedback and new experiences
Ability to remain flexible and adapt to changing classroom needs and routines
Good communication skills, including the ability to listen actively and speak respectfully with children and adults
Emotionally regulated; able to respond thoughtfully rather than react impulsively
Team-oriented mindset; collaborates well with teachers and support staff
Professionalism in behavior, appearance, and confidentiality
Initiative and motivation to engage in tasks without constant direction
Compassionate and empathetic, with an understanding of diverse family backgrounds and needs
Organized and detail-oriented, especially in maintaining classroom environments and routines
Open-mindedness toward the Montessori philosophy and a willingness to learn and apply its principles

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Contact Information

Email Address: seedsearlylearningnj@gmail.com

Phone Number: 574 540 7202