Nature-Based Preschool Teacher

What You'll Do

Child Guidance & Learning

• Foster a physically and emotionally safe environment where children are respected as capable, competent learners.
• Support the Lead Teacher in implementing an emergent, inquiry-based curriculum inspired by children's interests, seasonal changes, and the local environment.
• Engage alongside children as a mentor, guide, and co-learner, encouraging curiosity, creativity, problem-solving, and responsible risk-taking.
• Observe children's play and development, contributing to documentation, assessment, and individualized learning goals.
• Encourage independence, cooperation, empathy, and conflict resolution using positive guidance.
• Adapt activities/routines to meet the developmental needs, interests, and energy of the group.

Outdoor Learning & Stewardship

• Model respect, stewardship, and appreciation for the natural world.
• Help create meaningful outdoor learning experiences in all weather conditions.
• Support children in developing comfort, confidence, and resilience through daily experiences.
• Conduct ongoing risk-benefit assessments to balance children's opportunities for exploration with their health and safety.

Family & Community Relationships

• Build trusting, respectful relationships with families.
• Share daily experiences with families through positive, professional communication.
• Represent the program's philosophy and values with warmth, integrity, and professionalism.

Classroom & Program Support

• Assist in preparing learning environments, materials, and outdoor spaces.
• Maintain clean, organized, and safe indoor and outdoor learning environments, including bathrooms, storage areas, and shared program spaces.
• Participate in staff meetings, professional development, and ongoing learning related to nature-based early childhood education.
• Follow all program policies, WA State licensing regulations, and health and safety procedures.

Requirements

Minimum Qualifications

• At least 18 years of age.
• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Demonstrates warmth, professionalism, and a genuine respect for young children.
• Demonstrates an appreciation for outdoor learning and a willingness to work in all weather.

Required Upon Hire

• First Aid and adult/child CPR certification.
• HIV/AIDS and Bloodborne Pathogens training.
• Negative TB screening.
• Successful criminal background check and fingerprint clearance through DCYF.
• Completion of required STARS training within six months of hire.
• Washington State Food Worker Card.

Nice to Have

Preferred Qualifications

• 1+ years of experience in early childhood education, preschool, childcare, or outdoor education.
• Degree or coursework in Early Childhood Education or a related field.
• Familiarity with nature-based, forest school, Reggio Emilia, or experiential education models.
• Experience facilitating creative arts, music, movement, storytelling, science, or nature exploration.
• Strong observational skills and the ability to support emergent curriculum.
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively within a supportive teaching team.

Benefits