Overview

As a Parent Educator with Kershaw County First Steps, you will implement the evidence-based Parents as Teachers (PAT) model to promote the optimal early development, learning, and health of children by supporting and engaging their parents and caregivers. Parent Educators work closely with families to build strong partnerships and foster positive parent-child interactions, increase knowledge of child development, and support family well-being.

Key Responsibilities

• Deliver PAT personal visits using the Parents as Teachers Foundational Curriculum, with fidelity to the model.
• Establish and maintain a regular schedule of home visits and family engagement activities.
• Conduct initial and ongoing family-centered assessments to identify strengths, needs, and goals.
• Partner with families to create and regularly update individualized family goals and child development plans.
• Screen and monitor children’s developmental progress using approved PAT developmental screening tools.
• Connect families to appropriate resources and services and provide follow-up to ensure successful referrals.
• Plan and facilitate group connections (e.g., parent group meetings, playgroups, educational events) that support parent-child interaction and social support.
• Maintain accurate and timely documentation of all family contacts, screenings, assessments, referrals, and other required data.
• Participate in required PAT training, reflective supervision, and team meetings.
• Stay current on best practices in early childhood development, parenting, and family engagement.
• Continuously and actively recruit new families to participate in programs, including but not limited to Parents as Teachers.

Minimum Qualifications

• An associate degree with relevant experience and willingness to obtain PAT Foundational Training.
• Completion of PAT Foundational and Model Implementation Training (or willingness to complete upon hire).
• Experience working with young children and families, preferably in home visiting, early intervention, or family support programs.
• Strong understanding of early childhood development and parenting practices.
• Excellent interpersonal, communication, and organizational skills.
• Ability to work independently and maintain confidentiality and professionalism.
• Reliable transportation, a valid driver’s license, and the ability to travel locally for home visits.

Preferred Qualifications

• Bilingual (English/Spanish or other languages) strongly preferred.
• Knowledge of community resources and experience making referrals for family services.
• Familiarity with trauma-informed care, cultural humility, and equity-focused practices.

Working Conditions

• Primarily community-based/home visits and in-office work.
• Flexible scheduling, including some evenings or weekends, to meet family needs.
• Must be able to lift to 25 lbs. and perform floor activities with young children during visits or group connections.

Kershaw County First Steps

up to 37.5 Hours Weekly

Hourly ($15)

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