Childcare Jobs

Imagine going to work knowing that what you do each day positively influences the lives of children in your community. Working at the YMCA you’ll discover more than a job – you will have the opportunity to make a lasting difference in the community. OUR CULTURE: Our mission and core values are brought to life by our culture. In the Y, we strive to live our cause of strengthening communities with purpose and intentionality every day. We are welcoming: we are open to all. We are a place where you can belong and become. We are genuine: we value you and embrace your individuality. We are hopeful: we believe in you and your potential to become a catalyst in the world. We are nurturing: we support you in your journey to develop your full potential. We are determined: above all else, we are on a relentless quest to make our community stronger beginning with you. POSITION SUMMARY: As a Counselor II at the YMCA of South Hampton Roads, you will play a vital role in providing a safe, inclusive, and enriching child care experience for children and youth ages 5-12. You will serve as a mentor, role model, and facilitator, guiding children through a variety of recreational, educational, and character-building activities. By fostering a supportive and positive environment, you will help children develop social skills, build confidence, and create lasting memories. ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS: Supervision and Safety: Ensure the safety and well-being of children at all times, actively supervising activities, meals, and transitions. Implement and enforce safety protocols and emergency procedures. Programming: Lead and assist in the delivery of a diverse range of activities, including but not limited to sports, arts and crafts, nature exploration, team-building exercises, and STEM.. Group Management: Manage a group of children, fostering positive relationships and promoting teamwork and cooperation among peers. Facilitate conflict resolution and provide emotional support as needed. Behavior Management: Support positive behavior guidance techniques that promote self-regulation, conflict resolution, and social skills development. Model appropriate behavior and reinforce positive behaviors through praise and encouragement. Inclusion and Diversity: Create an inclusive and welcoming environment where all children feel valued, respected, and celebrated for their unique backgrounds and abilities. Communication: Communicate effectively with children, parents/guardians, fellow staff members, and YMCA leadership. Provide feedback on children's’ progress and behavior as appropriate. Professional Development: Participate in training sessions, staff meetings, and professional development opportunities to enhance skills and knowledge relevant to the job.

Imagine going to work knowing that what you do each day positively influences the lives of children in your community. Working at the YMCA you’ll discover more than a job – you will have the opportunity to make a lasting difference in the community. OUR CULTURE: Our mission and core values are brought to life by our culture. In the Y, we strive to live our cause of strengthening communities with purpose and intentionality every day. We are welcoming: we are open to all. We are a place where you can belong and become. We are genuine: we value you and embrace your individuality. We are hopeful: we believe in you and your potential to become a catalyst in the world. We are nurturing: we support you in your journey to develop your full potential. We are determined: above all else, we are on a relentless quest to make our community stronger beginning with you. POSITION SUMMARY: As a Teacher at the YMCA of South Hampton Roads, you will create a safe, nurturing, and engaging learning environment for children ages 1 through 5 years. Through developmentally appropriate practices, relationship-based teaching, and play-based learning, you will support each child's cognitive, social-emotional, language, and physical development. Working collaboratively with families and fellow teachers, you will foster school readiness, encourage a lifelong love of learning, and ensure a high-quality early learning experience while upholding the YMCA's mission and core values. ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS: Curriculum Preparation and Implementation: Prepare and implement developmentally appropriate curriculum plans that promote social, emotional, cognitive, and physical development. Create engaging and inclusive learning experiences that incorporate play-based and hands-on activities. Adapt curriculum to meet the individual needs and interests of children in the classroom. Classroom Management: Establish and maintain a safe, organized, and welcoming classroom environment conducive to learning and exploration. Manage classroom routines and transitions effectively, promoting independence and self-regulation among children. Foster a positive classroom culture based on the YMCA values of caring, honesty, respect and responsibility. Child Assessment and Progress Monitoring: Conduct ongoing assessment of children’s development and learning through observation, documentation, and informal assessments. Maintain accurate records of children’s progress and communicate with parents/guardians regarding their child’s development. Collaborate with colleagues and supervisors to identify areas for growth and support individualized learning goals. Parent and Community Engagement: Establish positive and collaborative relationships with parents/guardians, providing regular communication and opportunities for involvement in the classroom and program. Participate in parent-teacher conferences, workshops, and events to support family engagement and education. Engage with the broader community to enhance the preschool program’s resources and opportunities for children and families. Professional Development: Participate in training sessions, staff meetings, and professional development opportunities to enhance skills and knowledge relevant to the job, staying informed about best practices, research, and trends in early learning. Pursue opportunities for further education in early learning. LEADERSHIP COMPETENCIES: Functional Expertise Program and Project Management Developing Self & Others