Early Childhood Assistant
Opening Statement
Take part in the special adventures of the young child’s journey through Early Childhood. Our Early Childhood Assistant works in collaboration with our Lead teacher to cultivate an atmosphere that fills our students’ day by creating experiences, allowing children to immerse themselves fully in play, and fostering the child’s sense of wonder. Through play, singing, movement, handwork, arts, storytelling, puppetry, and more you not only enrich the children’s social-emotional life but also provide a strong foundation for academics.
The Waldorf School of St. Louis is seeking an Early Childhood Assistant to join our faculty for the 2026-2027 school year. The position schedule is Monday through Friday, 7:45 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., with additional meeting times as needed throughout the year.
At The Waldorf School of St. Louis, we rethink what is possible in education.
About
The Waldorf School of St. Louis, established in 1993, offers a unique educational experience with programs ranging from parent-child classes to a comprehensive K-8 curriculum. The school integrates arts and academics to foster a passion for learning in students. Its progressive approach aligns with the various stages of human development, focusing on both what and how children learn. As part of the world’s fastest-growing educational movement, our school provides an environment where students thrive academically and creatively.
Essential Job Duties
The Early Childhood Assistant supports the Lead Teacher in fostering a warm, rhythmic Waldorf environment for toddlers ages 12 months to 3 years. Working in alignment with Lifeways and Waldorf principles, the assistant helps guide daily transitions through song and imitation, prepares snacks and practical activities such as bread kneading or simple food preparation, and participates in seasonal storytelling, puppetry, and festivals. The role includes attentive supervision, thoughtful observation of children’s development, setting up and maintaining indoor and outdoor play spaces, greeting families, and preserving the order, cleanliness, and beauty of the classroom. Through calm presence and purposeful work, the assistant helps cultivate a nurturing atmosphere that supports healthy growth and learning through imitation.
Qualifications
High School diploma or equivalent
Experience working with young children
Ability to hold and support the rhythm of the day
Familiarity with a kitchen and ability to follow recipes
Strong organizational skills
Professionalism, including keeping adult conversations away from children and personal phones put away while working
Strong verbal communication skills
Ability to follow the lead of the teacher and work collaboratively
Emotional steadiness, patience, and the ability to model calm, purposeful behavior
Physical stamina to lift, bend, sit on the floor, and work outdoors
Employment Details
We offer:
- Freedom in creating curriculum to meet the needs of the developing children
- Students are assessed using a variety of methods rather than annual standardized tests
- Small class sizes and engaged, curious students
- Training funds (up to 50% reimbursement) for professional development
- Collaborative faculty and staff who make decisions by consensus
- A campus in the heart of Historic North Webster with access to parks, and outdoor spaces that are integral to our students’ school day and overall educational experience through outdoor playtime, experiential learning, kinesthetic learning, and curiosity about the world beyond the classroom walls
- Tuition discounts for children of employees, up to 100% for FT employees
- Mentoring programs and strong, supportive, collegial relationships
- Paid snow days for part-time employees
Job Types: Full-time, Part-time
To Apply
For a full job description or to apply, email the following to employment@waldorfstl.org:
- Cover Letter with a short autobiographical statement
- Resume
- Three professional references: Please provide the names and email addresses of three individuals who can speak to your professional qualifications and character.
