Teacher Assistant - KinderFrogs

Job Summary:

The Teacher Assistant at KinderFrogs, a laboratory school at TCU's College of Education, is responsible for supporting the development of children ages 18 months to 5 years with Down syndrome by assisting teaching staff in delivering a nurturing, inclusive, and developmentally appropriate learning environment.

Duties & Essential Job Functions:

1. Guides students' personal, social, and developmental growth by supporting classroom rules and procedures; encouraging student participation; understanding the curriculum and the developmental and educational implications of Down syndrome and related disabilities.
2. Provides information by answering questions and requests, referring inquiries to the appropriate staff member; appropriately and professionally interacting with parents, staff, TCU students, and faculty, and visitors.
3. Maintains a safe, clean, and organized learning environment by keeping classrooms and supplies in order, completing cleaning and laundry as needed. Follow state daycare licensing procedures regarding classroom environment and management
4. Assists in childcare responsibilities by organizing and preparing lunches and snacks; feeding and diapering children as needed.
5. Supervises and facilitates activities by organizing play, instructing small groups, assisting in childhood development projects, and actively engaging with children during daily activities.
6. Supports children's communication needs by utilizing sign language, augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) strategies, and other tools as directed by teaching staff.
7. Collaborates with TCU College of Education faculty, students, and outside specialists (e.g., speech, occupational, and physical therapists) to support each child's individualized goals.
8. Contributes to a positive, respectful, and inclusive workplace culture by demonstrating professionalism, collegiality, and a team-first attitude in all interactions with colleagues, families, and TCU community members.
9. Performs other related duties as assigned.

Required Education & Experience:

• Associate’s degree in early childhood education, Child Development, Special Education, or a related field; OR a High School diploma/GED with a minimum of 2 years of experience working with young children with special needs.
• 1–2 years of related experience working with children, preferably in an early childhood or special education setting.

Preferred Education & Experience:

• Bachelor’s degree in early childhood special education, Child Development, or a related field.
• Experience working with children with Down syndrome or other developmental disabilities.
• Familiarity with Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) and early intervention strategies.
• Familiarity with Texas Daycare Minimum Standards for Child Care Centers

Required Licensure/Certification/Specialized Training:

• Child Development Associate (CDA) Certification or actively working toward obtaining the certification.
• CPR and Basic First Aid Certification (or willingness to obtain upon hire).

Preferred Licensure, Certification, and/or Specialized Training:

• Training or coursework in special education, early intervention, or applied behavior analysis (ABA).
• American Sign Language (ASL) training or proficiency.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities:

• Knowledge of child development stages, with an understanding of the developmental profile of children with Down syndrome.
• Knowledge of inclusive and adaptive teaching strategies for children with special needs.
• Knowledge of customer service and professional communication techniques.
• Skill in childcare, including feeding, diapering, and personal care for young children.
• Ability to clearly communicate in English, both verbally and in writing.
• Ability to learn and apply sign language, AAC tools, CPR, basic first aid, Heimlich maneuver, and safety and hygiene techniques.
• Ability to work collaboratively and respectfully as part of a multidisciplinary team.
• Ability to approach each child with patience, empathy, and a strength-based mindset.
• Ability to model and maintain a positive, professional demeanor that uplifts the work environment and supports the well-being of both children and colleagues.
• Demonstrated interpersonal skills that reflect warmth, flexibility, and a genuine commitment to fostering a welcoming and supportive school community.

TCU Core Competencies:

University Core Competencies definitions may be found on the Human Resources website and in the staff performance management system.

Physical Requirements (With or Without Accommodations):

• Visual acuity to read information from computer screens, forms, and other printed materials.
• Ability to speak (enunciate) clearly in conversation and general communication.
• Hearing ability for verbal communication via telephone and face-to-face interactions.
• Manual dexterity for typing, writing, standing, and reaching; flexibility and body movement for bending, crouching, walking, kneeling, crawling and prolonged sitting.
• Lifting and moving objects, equipment, and children up to 40 lbs.

Work Environment:

• Work is indoors in an active early childhood classroom setting and is subject to schedule changes and/or variable work hours.
• This role is an on-campus, in-person position.
• The noise level in this work environment is usually moderate to active.
• Staff may encounter bodily fluids as part of routine childcare responsibilities.

Employment Values Statement:

Texas Christian University values Integrity, Engagement, Community, and Excellence in the workplace. TCU treats applicants and employees with fairness and respect. TCU hires and promotes individuals based on their qualifications and their commitment to making a positive impact on our student-centered community. TCU is an equal opportunity employer and follows all applicable employment laws. TCU fairly considers all qualified individuals, ensuring we are a workplace free from unlawful discrimination and harassment.