Residential Volunteer Floating Nature Based Teaching Assistant

Ferncliff Nature School

  • Little Rock, AR
  • Permanent
  • Full-time
  • 1 day ago
  • Apply easily
SummaryThe 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.DutiesSupport 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
  • High school diploma or GED (some programs may prefer coursework in Early Childhood Education).
  • At least 18 years of age.
  • Experience working with young children (paid or volunteer).
  • Ability and willingness to work outdoors in all seasons and weather conditions.
  • Strong communication and teamwork skills.
  • Commitment to fostering an inclusive, respectful environment for all children and families.
  • Physical ability to actively supervise children outdoors (walking on trails, lifting up to 40 lbs, bending, kneeling, etc.).
  • CPR and First Aid certification (or willingness to obtain within 30 days of hire).
  • Successful completion of background check and state-required child care registry/fingerprinting.
Nice To Haves
  • Child Development Associate (CDA) Credential or coursework toward an associate’s or bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education or related field.
  • Previous experience in a nature-based, Reggio-inspired, Montessori, or play-based early childhood program.
  • Knowledge of child development and positive guidance strategies.
  • Enthusiasm for nature, curiosity-driven learning, and hands-on exploration.
Benefits
  • Housing
  • Meals when available
  • Stipend
  • Professional Development Opportunities
About UsFerncliff 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:

Ferncliff Nature School