Matrix Human Services is Educating Children, Supporting Families and Rebuilding Neighborhoods in Detroit. Operating multiple programs in more than 35 Detroit locations, Matrix provides services to more than 25,000 individuals and families annually and operates the largest Head Start program in Detroit serving more than 1,900 children.

CORE VALUES: 

• Being of Service
• Building Relationships
• Always Learning
• Committed to Results

JOB SUMMARY/ACCOUNTABILITY

This position reports directly to the Early Head Start Child Care Partnership Education Manager. The Child Development Specialist will provide educational and program support to teachers and Providers hired at partnering Child Care Centers. As well as to provide educational and program support to ensure the provision of quality services at each Family Child Care Home. 

GENERAL RESPONSIBILITIES

The Child Development Specialist directly support the teachers to ensure they are implementing the curriculum to fidelity. They facilitate training in a variety of areas as it relates to child development and they provide guidance on how to engage with young children and build positive relationships. The Child Development Specialist monitor, review and disaggregate the data compiled from early childhood assessments complete on every child.

RELATED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:

• Able to read, write, and communicate in Standard English.
• Good organizational and time management skills.
• Good oral and written communication skills.
• Able to maintain confidentiality of all discussions and records.
• Must be resourceful, patient and sensitive to the needs of staff, children and families.
• Must be culturally sensitive to work in a diverse community.

• Must be able to work in a team atmosphere.

   

RESPONSIBILITIES INCLUDE BUT ARE NOT LIMITED TO THE FOLLOWING:

Facilitate ongoing communication between program staff, family childcare providers, and enrolled families

Conduct regular visits to each childcare center or family childcare home, some of which are unannounced, not less than twice every week

Periodically verify compliance with either contract requirements or agency policy

Provide recommendations for technical assistance and support the family child care provider in developing relationships with other childcare professionals

Monitor observe and mentor childcare center staff

Complete family childcare home PQA and classroom PQA assessments

Assists childcare staff in understanding and interpreting child observation data and establishing appropriate individual child goals based on knowledge of child development.

Work closely with the Family Advocate, and all content area specialists to ensure family child care providers and enrolled families are receiving and providing quality services

Complete referrals 

Assist in compiling monthly data and information to complete various reports

Must have basic knowledge of program content area policies and procedures 

Knowledge of Licensing Rules for Child Care Centers and Family Child Care Homes

Assist in the planning and implementation of program activities and initiatives.

Attend meetings/trainings as assigned.

Must continue self- professional development

Monitoring and tracking in compliance with the policies and procedures, licensing rules, and HS Program Performance Standards.

Must assist with recruitment of children for the CCP program.

Must participate in program activities and community events.

Oversee and track QRIS updates.

Must have reliable