Job Description

Summary

The Nature-Based Floating Teaching Assistant supports classrooms serving children ages 3–5 in an outdoor, play- and curiosity-driven learning environment. This role “floats” between groups, offering flexible support wherever it is most needed, whether assisting with nature walks, guiding hands-on activities, or helping with transitions throughout the day. The assistant fosters children’s natural sense of wonder, models curiosity, and ensures a safe, nurturing environment in which children can explore and grow. A love for working with young children, comfort spending the majority of the day outdoors in all seasons, and a collaborative spirit are essential for success in this position. 

Duties

Support lead and assistant teachers across multiple classrooms, providing flexible help where most needed.

• Engage children in outdoor, play-based, and nature-focused learning experiences.
• Foster curiosity and wonder by asking open-ended questions and encouraging exploration.
• Assist with transitions, including arrival, meals/snacks, rest time, and dismissal.
• Ensure children’s physical and emotional safety during outdoor play, nature walks, and activities.
• Model positive social interactions and help children develop problem-solving and conflict-resolution skills.
• Support children with self-help skills such as dressing for weather, toileting, and handwashing.
• Prepare and maintain outdoor and indoor learning environments, including setting up and cleaning up materials.
• Observe and report children’s interests, needs, and progress to classroom teachers.
• Collaborate with the teaching team to implement developmentally appropriate, child-centered curriculum.
• Flexibly adapt to different classroom rhythms and teaching styles while maintaining consistency for children.
• Participate in team meetings, trainings, and professional development related to early childhood and nature-based education.

Requirements

• 1-2 years minimum early childhood experience
• 1-2 years minimum working in an outdoor setting
• professional written and spoken communication skills
• ability to stand/sit outdoors for long periods of time
• ability to lift 40lbs
• ability to work in the outdoors in all weather

Benefits

• Paid professional development

About Us

Ferncliff Mission Statement: As an expression of God’s love, we welcome people into a life of caring for Creation, others and themselves.

There is a  lot going on at Ferncliff! Over the years we have grown into a multi-faceted organization that has branched in many ways beyond a typical camp and conference center. Today we are a:

Job Tags

Full time, Flexible hours,

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