Childcare Specialist

Position Summary:

As a Childwatch Counselor at the YMCA of Greater Houston, you will play a vital role in ensuring the safety and well-being of children in our care. You will be responsible for supervising and interacting with children while their parents engage in program activities, ensuring that the Childwatch program is a safe, values-oriented, and interactive environment.

Essential Functions:

• Promote and incorporate the YMCA's five core values and character development model into all program activities.
• Supervise children at all times to ensure their safety and well-being.
• Stay alert to children's needs and/or problems as individuals and as a group.
• Engage children in developmentally appropriate games and learning activities.
• Provide for the physical and emotional needs of children, including feeding, distributing snacks and drinks, and providing first aid as needed.

Responsibilities:

• Prepare the program area for activities by ensuring that toys, supplies, and equipment are safe, clean, and well-maintained.
• Inform incoming staff of any significant information about a child and provide a list of children present in the group.
• Report any concerns to your supervisor about the children, parents, members, and/or others as needed.
• Utilize appropriate software to check children in and out of the program area.
• Attend mandatory trainings and meetings.

Qualifications:

To be successful in this role, you must be at least 18 years old and possess a high school diploma or equivalent. You must also have CPR, First Aid, and AED certifications, as well as Child Abuse prevention training. Previous experience working with children is preferred, but not required. You must be able to read, interpret, and teach documents, as well as write routine reports and correspondence. You must also be able to speak effectively before groups of children, parents, and staff. The ability to maintain confidentiality and ensure the safety and well-being of children is essential.

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