Witham YMCA - Play & Learn - Child Care Aide

YMCA MISSION

To put Christian principles into practice through programs that enhance personal growth and improve health of spirit, mind and body for all.

GENERAL FUNCTION

The Child Care Aide will be responsible for the care of the children in Child Watch; ensuring a healthy, safe, and nurturing environment.  He/she will foster children’s social, physical, spiritual, and mental growth, and demonstrate the core values of Caring, Honesty, Respect and Responsibility and will interact positively with parents to develop a trusting relationship.

KNOW HOW

• Must be at least 16 years old and have an understanding and knowledge of children, their behavior and development.
• Knowledge in age-appropriate activities (crafts, games, etc.) and the ability to lead group activities.
• Ability to use age-appropriate behavior management techniques according to YMCA guidelines.
• Maintain current certifications in First Aid, Child Abuse Prevention, Safety & Risk Management, New Employee Orientation and other position-related training required for Child Watch employees within 60-90 days of employment.
• Warm and friendly personality and have the willingness to interact and play with children.
• Understands and accepts the YMCA’s goals and values.
• Supervises Child Watch participants in order to ensure safety and provide caring, nurturing environment.

PRINCIPAL RESPONSIBILITIES

1. Assists in providing a quality environment in Child Watch, taking into consideration the needs of each child and the goals and objectives of the YMCA.
2. Maintains the diapering and feeding schedules, and infant reports as set forth by Coordinator.
3. Be responsible for the safety of the children at all times and to carry out emergency procedures when necessary.
4. Attends all staff meetings and in-service trainings under the direction of the Director.  Required child care trainings include: YMCA Principles of Child Care, Working with 0-5 Year olds and Super Saturdays.
5. Adheres to and maintains the cleaning schedule.
6. Continually interacts with the children, when in room and parents as they enter and leave the Child Watch area (includes greeting parents immediately upon their arrival)
7. Puts safety first in all activities by using developmentally appropriate activities at all times.
8. Professionally handles any conflict or emergency situations that may arise with members or staff.
9. Provides positive interaction with children, parents and staff using the core values as guidelines.
10. Monitors usage of the sign in/sign out sheets, ensuring all parents are signing in and out properly.
11. Shows flexibility in working where needed as numbers of children fluctuate.
12. Reports all concerns or problems to Supervisor, not other employees.
13.  Anything deemed necessary by the Supervisor/Director in regards to the position.          

MEMBER INVOLVEMENT SKILLS

1. Be informed and up-to-date on the latest developments in your field.
2. Acquaint members with other YMCA programs and benefits.
3. Develop relationships that promote the building of small communities.
4. Recommend participation in a variety of YMCA programs.
5. Support our YMCA annual campaign, and invite members to participate.
6. Be able to articulate the role and importance of volunteers.
7. Be informed about volunteer opportunities.
8. Provide an environment in which valuing diversity is encouraged and the 40 Developmental Assets can be built and emphasized.

PHYSICAL AND MENTAL REQUIREMENTS

1. Ability to visibly observe children, even when distracted by noise and activity.
2. Ability to stand and sit for extended periods of time.
3. Ability to lift up to 40 lbs., transport equipment, serve snack, etc.
4. Ability to bend at the waist and knees and kneel.
5. Ability to walk up and down 20-30 steps.
6. Ability to demonstrate and lead activities.
7. Ability to communicate effectively with parents and children.
8. Ability to reason, solve problems, and make sound decisions even when distracted by noise and activities.
9. Ability to observe and promote safety and security procedures.
10. Physically and mentally able to respond to emergencies and administer CPR and First Aid effectively.

EFFECT ON END RESULT

• Provide a quality Child Watch program that reflects a positive image of the YMCA and its services to our parents and children.
• Provide a safe and nurturing environment for the children in our care.
• Provide positive relationships with co-workers and associates to ensure that YMCA goals are being met
• Facility and equipment being maintained in a clean, safe and appropriate manner.
• Evidence of the YMCA being recognized as a safe and friendly drop-in childcare facility.