Substitute Teacher

Job Description

The Substitute Child Care Provider supports the daily operations of a licensed in‑home family child care program when the primary provider is unavailable due to illness, mental health days, professional appointments, or other planned/unplanned absences. This role is as‑needed, with a typical minimum of 4 hours per month and no more than 20 substitute days per year, as defined by Maryland OCC regulations (days only count when providing more than 2 consecutive solo hours).

The substitute is responsible for maintaining a safe, nurturing, predictable environment and following all established routines, procedures, and licensing requirements.

Key Responsibilities:
Child Supervision — Maintain active, attentive supervision of all children at all times. When acting as the sole supervising adult, the substitute must remain in the same room as the children at all times.

Safety & Licensing Compliance — Follow all Maryland Office of Child Care regulations, including safety protocols, supervision rules, emergency procedures, and documentation requirements.

Daily Care Duties — Support children with meals/snacks, toileting/diapering, transitions, rest time, and play-based learning activities.

Program Continuity — Maintain the established routines, curriculum flow, and behavior expectations taught during training.

Positive Guidance — Use only developmentally appropriate, non-punitive guidance. No corporal punishment, threats, or shaming under any circumstances.

Environment Management — Keep the child-facing areas clean, organized, and safe throughout the shift.

Communication — Provide clear, professional communication with the primary provider regarding incidents, needs, or concerns.

Required Qualifications:
Must complete all Maryland OCC substitute requirements, including:

State background checks

Medical evaluation

Required OCC forms for substitute approval

Experience working with children ages 0–5 preferred

Ability to follow established routines and maintain a calm, structured environment

Reliability, professionalism, and strong communication skills

Ability to manage multiple children safely in a home-based setting

Work Schedule and Availability:
As‑needed position

Minimum 4 hours per month

Up to 4 hours per week depending on provider needs and substitute availability

No more than 20 substitute days per calendar year, per Maryland regulations

Substitutes are not on call — monthly availability is agreed upon in advance