*Play to Learn* *Substitute* The Children’s Museum of Tacoma is seeking a substitute teacher for a seasonal early learning outreach program. Substitutes are scheduled as needed to fill teaching positions Monday - Friday, September through June. *Play to Learn* follows a seasonal academic calendar; however, there may be opportunities for extended year round employment within other Museum programs. *Play to Learn* is a grant funded program that provides a free, high quality, play based school-readiness program for children and their adult caregivers. The program supports children and families by offering age appropriate activities for children and information, resources and support to help adults foster their child’s development and learning through play. This 90-minute adult/child drop-in program occurs weekly September through May in neighborhood settings such as libraries and community centers across Pierce County. *Position Purpose:* The Children’s Museum of Tacoma *Play to Learn *substitute is responsible for delivering exceptional educational experiences for children birth to age six and their caregivers. *Play to Learn *focuses on the developmental skills children acquire when given the opportunity to engage in playful, self-directed learning, as well as on the benefits of having these experiences alongside peers and trusted adults. A key component of this position is connecting with parents and caregivers, helping them to understand the importance of play as the most natural, effective way that children learn and offering support, encouragement and tools that will foster the strong connection between play and school readiness. *Job Responsibilities:* - Guiding intentional child learning for each session of *Play to Learn* including: - Leading developmentally and culturally appropriate, child-directed play opportunities. - Facilitating art, science, and circle time activities for children and adults that support child development and growth in all domains. - Guiding intentional caregiver learning for each session of *Play to Learn *including: - Modeling playful experiences and interactions that honor each child or group of children. - Presenting relevant educational topics and community resources serving children and families. - Responding to and following up on caregiver questions and requests for assistance and/or information. - Completing administrative and record-keeping tasks related to *Play to Learn*. - Participating in reflection and planning meetings with the entire *Play to Learn* - Working in collaboration with co-facilitator and volunteers. - Implementing existing program assessment tools. - Distributing marketing materials throughout the community and gathering resource materials as needed. - Assisting with the transportation, set-up, and break down of supplies at *Play to Learn* *Minimum Qualifications:* - CDA, Associates or BA in Early Childhood Education, Special Education or related field. - Prior experience working with adults and children birth to age six. - Demonstrated knowledge of developmentally appropriate practices. - Able to work independently and in collaboration with a co-teacher and the entire *Play to Learn* - Outstanding written and interpersonal communication skills. - Able to repeatedly lift up to 25 pounds. - Must be able to pass a background check upon employment. - Valid Washington state driver’s license. - Must meet the *Play to Learn *driving requirements including proof of insurance and access to transportation to/from program sites. *Desired Qualifications:* - Special preference to bi-lingual Spanish or Korean candidates. - BA in Special Education with experience in working in both Early Childhood and Special Education. - Enthusiasm for and prior experience facilitating play-based learning for children with special needs and their adult caregivers. - Additional training and experience in working with children who experience Autism, medically fragile and other disabilities is highly preferred. - Knowledge of Pierce County community resources for families and children. *To Apply: *Please apply online at indeed.com In the cover letter please address the following: - Your experience working in the early education field. - Your approach to working with young children and children with special needs. - Your experience facilitating groups of children and their adults in playful learning. - Your experience educating and supporting adults in learning about their child’s development and educational needs. For more information on the Children’s Museum of Tacoma and *Play to Learn*, visit the Museum’s website at www.PlayTacoma.org/play-to-learn *Honor children. Champion play.* Job Type: Part-time Salary: $13.00 to $15.00 /hour -- *HONOR CHILDREN. CHAMPION PLAY.* Kat Bosold, Human Resources and Office Manager Children’s Museum of Tacoma 1501 Pacific Avenue, Suite 202 Tacoma, WA 98402 253.627.6031 ext. 236 PlayTacoma.org <http://www.playtacoma.org/> <http://www.playtacoma.org/> <http://www.playtacoma.org/> <https://playtacoma.org/camp>