Child Watch Aide

YMCA Buffalo Niagara is looking for talented individuals with a passion for the YMCA mission and cause, an understanding of YMCA programs and services, and whose everyday priorities are a reflection of the core YMCA values of caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility. YMCA Buffalo Niagara is an equal opportunity employer committed to practicing inclusion.

Position Summary

The Child Watch Aide provides a safe, engaging, and nurturing environment for children while their parents or guardians participate in YMCA programs. Child Watch Aides ensure children are supervised, entertained, and cared for in alignment with YMCA policies and procedures. There are immediate openings at the Independent Health YMCA, Southtowns YMCA and Lockport YMCA. GENERAL WORK SCHEDULE: 12 - 20 hours per week.

Benefits

Complimentary YMCA Buffalo Niagara membership, discounted program fees, and an outstanding work environment. Employees are immediately eligible to enroll and contribute to the Y Retirement Fund’s 403B plan and will receive a 12% employer-paid Y Retirement contribution after eligibility requirements are met. Other benefits include paid sick leave, leadership development opportunities, training, and career advancement. ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS: Child Supervision: Actively supervise children, ensuring their safety, well-being, and engagement at all times. Engagement Activities: Plan and facilitate age-appropriate activities, games, and crafts that promote social, physical, and cognitive development. Behavior Management: Implement positive behavior management techniques in accordance with YMCA values, ensuring a respectful and inclusive environment. Safety and Cleanliness: Maintain a clean, organized, and hazard-free child watch area by following YMCA safety standards and guidelines.

Communication

• Build positive relationships with parents/guardians, providing updates about their child’s experience and addressing any questions or concerns.
• Record-Keeping: Accurately log the children’s check-in and check-out times and ensure all required forms are completed and up to date.
• Team
• Collaboration: Work collaboratively with other staff members to ensure smooth operations and coverage during Child Watch hours.
• Emergency
• Preparedness: Respond promptly and appropriately to emergencies, including administering first aid and following YMCA emergency procedures as needed.
• Training &
• Meetings: Attend training sessions and staff meetings as scheduled.
• Additional
• Responsibilities: Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

Age Requirement: Must be at least 16.

Experience

Prior experience working with children in a childcare, educational, or recreational setting is preferred.

Certifications

• First Aid certification is required within 90 days of employment.
• Interpersonal
• Skills: Strong communication and relationship-building skills, with the ability to interact positively with children, parents, and staff.

Dependability

Punctual, reliable, and able to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends.