Highlight your experience with specific age groups

Hiring managers want to see that you have experience working with the specific age group you'll be assisting with. Be sure to highlight this in your resume:

• Assisted lead teacher in a classroom of 15 children ages 3-5
• Worked with infants and toddlers aged 6 weeks to 2 years old, ensuring their safety and well-being

Avoid being vague about the ages of the children you've worked with. Instead of saying:

• Helped in a daycare classroom
• Assisted teachers with young children

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   Quantify your achievements and responsibilities

Use numbers and metrics to make your achievements and responsibilities stand out:

• Managed a classroom of 20+ students alongside the lead teacher
• Implemented a new behavior management system, resulting in a 30% decrease in classroom disruptions
• Created and led daily circle time activities for groups of 10-15 children

Avoid using vague descriptions that don't give a clear picture of your impact:

• Helped manage the classroom
• Assisted with behavior management
• Led activities for the children

   Include relevant certifications and training

Many states require specific certifications or training for teacher assistants. Be sure to include these on your resume:

• CPR and First Aid Certified
• Completed 30-hour Child Care Basics course
• Earned Child Development Associate (CDA) credential

Don't forget to list any additional relevant training you've completed, such as:

• Positive behavior management workshops
• Special education training
• Curriculum development courses

   Showcase your communication and collaboration skills

Teacher assistants need to be able to communicate effectively with lead teachers, parents, and children. Highlight examples of your communication and collaboration skills:

• Collaborated with lead teacher to create weekly lesson plans and activities
• Maintained open communication with parents through daily reports and regular conferences
• Worked closely with a team of 5 teacher assistants to ensure smooth classroom operations

Avoid using generic phrases that don't provide specific examples:

• Good communication skills
• Team player
• Works well with others

   Tailor your resume to the specific job and school

Each school and classroom will have different needs and priorities. Tailor your resume to highlight the skills and experience that match what they're looking for:

Experienced teacher assistant with a passion for Montessori education methods. Skilled in creating hands-on learning activities and fostering independence in young children.

If a job listing mentions specific requirements, make sure to address them in your resume:

Bilingual teacher assistant fluent in English and Spanish. Experienced in working with ESL students and creating inclusive classroom environments.

   Highlight your flexibility and adaptability

Teacher assistants often need to be flexible and adapt to changing classroom needs. Show examples of your adaptability on your resume:

• Stepped in to lead the classroom when the lead teacher was absent, ensuring a smooth transition for the children
• Adapted lesson plans and activities to meet the needs of children with diverse learning styles and abilities
• Helped implement new safety protocols during the COVID-19 pandemic while maintaining a positive classroom environment

Avoid simply stating that you're flexible without providing examples:

• Flexible and adaptable
• Able to handle change