Early Childhood Aide

Job Summary:             Under the general direction and supervision of the Recreation Supervisor, the early childhood aide is responsible for assisting the Early Childhood instructor in all aspects of the early childhood programs.

Duties and Responsibilities

1. Assist in setting up the classroom before each session.
2. Assist in cleaning up the classroom at the end of the program.
3. Assist in cleaning and straightening up early childhood room before and after each class.
4. Assist in record keeping
   1. Attendance Sheets
   2. Individual student records
5. Keep informed on current teaching trends and incorporate them into the program
6. Attend seasonal staff meetings
7. Assist with maintaining supplies and equipment so they remain in a safe and workable condition
8. Assist the Early Childhood Instructor in areas which they require extra help
9. Immediately report any and all major incidents to the Recreation Supervisor

Qualifications:             Must be 16 years of age and completed 2 years of high school. Applicant must have reliable transportation and ability to provide a current CPR/AED/First Aid certification upon hire or receive within 90 days of hire. Must be a mandated reporter for the Abused and Neglected Child Reporting Act.

Required Knowledge or Traits:

1. Have a basic knowledge of Park District policies concerning the early childhood programming
2. A sense of loyalty to the Park District and the early childhood programs
3. Assist in directing the classroom activities in a positive manner
4. Ability to be flexible and adaptable to new situations
5. Ability to maintain self-control and composure in difficult situations
6. Ability to analyze situations and make sound decisions
7. Ability to work harmoniously with all employees in all departments within the Park District
8. Demonstrate a positive and cheerful attitude when working with the children and parents
9. Ability to work with a good attitude towards coworkers
10. Ability to be self-motivated to accomplish the early childhood program goals and objectives
11. Ability to accept the responsibility to be punctual and practice good attendance
12. Ability to accept constructive criticism or supervision

PSYCHOLOGICAL CONSIDERATIONS
The Early Childhood Aide may feel pressure due to:

1. The responsibility of effective and efficient delivery of services
2. The need to resolve situations and problems with the children, parents, and staff
3. Multi-tasking and assistance needed by patrons and parents

PHYSIOLOGICAL CONSIDERATIONS
Instructors will be exposed to many activities that may require, including but not limited to: prolonged standing, prolonged sitting, kneeling, squatting, walking, reaching, bending, and have the ability to lift up to 50 pounds unassisted.

COGNITIVE CONSIDERATIONS

1. Must be able to work independently
2. Must be able to communicate verbally and in writing, following directions, and read and speak English
3. Must possess time management and organizational skills to effectively perform all job responsibilities
4. Must possess good problem solving skills and have the capability to act rationally and calmly in emergency situations
5. Must be able to represent the Park District of La Grange in a professional manner
6. Must be able to make judgments with respect to confidentiality of information and problem solving
7. Must exhibit good safety awareness and judgment in all aspects of the position