First Roots-Wild Roots

Nature Based Infant/Toddler Co-Teacher

Hinesburg, VermontFull-time
$43,120 - $49,360 annually
About the Job
Where curiosity begins and educators are valued.

Do you believe the earliest years of life deserve deep care, connection and time in nature?
Do you find joy in supporting babies and toddlers as they discover the world for the very first time?

First Roots – Wild Roots is seeking a warm, curious, and collaborative Infant/Toddler Co-Teacher to join our 5-STAR nature-based early childhood program serving children ages 6 weeks to 3 years.

Here, teaching is not just a job — it’s meaningful work that shapes the foundation of a child’s life.

If you are passionate about early childhood development, responsive care giving and learning through exploration, we would love to meet you.

At First Roots – Wild Roots, our infant and toddler classrooms are built around relationships, exploration and the natural world. Our educators create environments where the youngest learners feel safe, curious and empowered.

You’ll be part of a team that believes:
  • Children are competent, capable learners
  • Nature is a powerful teacher
  • Strong relationships are the foundation of development

What You’ll Do:
As an Infant/Toddler Co-Teacher, you’ll help create a nurturing environment where children can explore, grow and develop confidence.

Your role will include:
  • Nurturing relationships
  • Building warm, responsive connections with infants, toddlers and their families
  • Supporting secure attachments and emotional development
Creating meaningful learning experiences:
  • Planning developmentally appropriate activities based on children’s interests
  • Supporting language, movement, curiosity and social development through play and exploration
Teaching through nature:
  • Engaging children with natural materials and outdoor experiences
  • Creating indoor and outdoor environments that inspire curiosity and discovery
Observing and supporting development:
  • Documenting children’s growth and learning
  • Using observation to guide curriculum aligned with Vermont Early Learning Standards
Being part of a collaborative team:
  • Working closely with your co-teachers and colleagues
  • Participating in professional development and staff meetings
  • Contributing to a positive and supportive workplace culture

We’re looking for educators who bring both skill and heart to their work.

Ideal candidates will have:
  • 2+ years experience working with infants or toddlers
  • Education in Early Childhood Education, Environmental Education or a related field
  • A passion for nature-based learning
  • Strong communication and teamwork skills
  • A calm, patient and nurturing presence

And just as important…
  • You enjoy being outdoors
  • You love watching tiny discoveries happen
  • You have a sense of humor and joy in your work

We believe that classrooms and workplaces thrive when all voices are welcomed and respected. We encourage applicants of all identities, backgrounds and experiences to apply.

Our Mission: We are a 5 STAR, nature focused early care and education program that views each child as an individual with a unique developmental profile. Through developmentally responsive outdoor programming, we serve children ages 6 weeks to 8 years. Our mission is to Achieve the highest level of professional development, Build a community where families feel connected and respected, and to
Cultivate sustainable environmental choices and business practices to support the health and well being of all who work and play here!

Our Purpose: These are our fundamental reasons for doing what we do. If these resonate with you, we'd love to hear from you!

Job Type: Full-time

Benefits:
  • Dental insurance
  • Employee discount
  • Health insurance
  • Life insurance
  • Paid time off
  • Professional development assistance
  • Relocation assistance
  • Tuition reimbursement
  • Vision insurance

Education:
  • Associate (Preferred)

Experience:
  • Early Childhood Education: 1 year (Preferred)

License/Certification:
  • CPR Certification (Preferred)

Work Location: In person

Pay: $43,120.00 - $49,360.00 per year