Psychologist (Early Childhood)

Sharjah Government Nurseries (SGN), operating under Sharjah Education Academy (SEA), delivers high-quality early childhood education and care for children aged 0–4 across the Emirate of Sharjah. SGN is dedicated to nurturing a professional community founded on care, collaboration, and excellence. We support our educators and specialists through ongoing development and evidence-based practices, ensuring each role contributes to shaping confident, curious, and compassionate young learners. Role Purpose The Psychologist supports the psychological, behavioral, and socio-emotional development of children aged 0–4 across SGN nurseries. The role provides expert assessment, early intervention, consultation, and guidance for three key groups: Children – psychological assessment, emotional/behavioral support, early intervention. Teachers – training, classroom guidance, behavior management strategies. Parents – counselling, positive parenting support, developmental guidance. The Psychologist ensures that all children’s developmental needs are understood and supported using evidence-based early childhood psychology practices. Key Responsibilities Direct Support for Children (Primary Role) Conduct psychological, developmental, and behavioral assessments for children aged 0–4. Identify developmental delays, behavioral challenges, emotional regulation issues, and social-emotional needs. Develop individualized psychological support plans and implement early intervention strategies. Deliver one-on-one or small-group sessions to promote emotional, social, and behavioral development. Monitor and document progress using validated early childhood assessment tools. Support and Capacity Building for Teachers Train educators on early childhood development, emotional regulation, behavior guidance, and early warning signs. Provide classroom coaching and model child-centered behavioral strategies. Assist teachers in managing challenging behaviors using proactive, positive approaches. Help create inclusive, emotionally supportive, and developmentally appropriate classroom environments. Guidance, Counselling & Engagement for Parents Offer counseling and guidance to support children’s growth and well-being. Conduct workshops on positive parenting, emotional support, early childhood development, and behavior strategies. Communicate professionally with families regarding assessments, interventions, and progress. Strengthen home–nursery partnerships for consistent child support. Safeguarding & Child Protection Identify and address concerns related to child well-being following SGN safeguarding protocols. Provide guidance on trauma-informed and child-safe practices. Participate in case reviews and child-protection processes in line with UAE regulations. Program Development & Multidisciplinary Collaboration Work closely with speech therapists, inclusion specialists, and external agencies. Contribute to SGN’s early intervention and inclusive education initiatives. Participate in multidisciplinary meetings and provide expert recommendations. Documentation, Reporting & Data Governance Maintain accurate psychological records, case notes, and developmental data. Prepare progress reports, summaries, and recommendations for internal use and families. Ensure all documentation complies with ethical, confidentiality, and UAE safeguarding standards. Minimum Qualifications Master’s degree in Psychology, Clinical Psychology, Child Psychology, Developmental Psychology, or a closely related field (PhD preferred). Minimum 10 years of experience working with young children in clinical, educational, or early intervention settings. Expertise in early childhood socio-emotional and behavioral development. Bilingual in Arabic and English (mandatory). Additional Preferred Certifications / Credentials UAE-recognized licenses or certifications (CDA, MOE, DHA/DOH, Ministry of Health). Experience in nursery/early childhood or GCC educational settings. Knowledge of UAE safeguarding and inclusion policies. Advanced assessment and diagnostic skills for early childhood. Strong knowledge of socio-emotional development and behavior management. Excellent communication and counseling skills with both adults and children. Ability to support teachers through coaching, modeling, and practical strategies. High ethical standards, empathy, cultural sensitivity, and confidentiality. Effective collaboration within multidisciplinary teams. Why This Role Matters? The Psychologist plays a foundational role in promoting children’s emotional well-being, supporting teachers, and empowering parents to foster healthy home–nursery connections. By providing assessment, therapy, and counseling across children, educators, and families, the role ensures a holistic, integrated approach to early childhood support. This position is central to SGN’s mission of creating safe, supportive, and developmentally enriching environments for Sharjah’s youngest learners. Why Join? Be part of a leading government early childhood system. Contribute to high-impact work shaping children’s foundational learning. Access continuous professional development and career growth opportunities. Join a supportive, values-driven, and purpose-led professional community. Enjoy a competitive salary package and comprehensive benefits offered by SEA. #J-18808-Ljbffr