The Y in Central Maryland
Location
Towson, Maryland
The intern will observe and apply foundational concepts of child growth and development within a supervised preschool classroom. They are responsible for participating in age-appropriate learning activities and completing educational requirements as outlined by their institution.
Candidates must be currently enrolled in an Early Childhood Education program at a high school, college, or vocational level. They must possess a professional demeanor and the physical ability to lift up to 50 lbs and multitask in a fast-paced environment.
Overwhelmingly, people who decide they want to be a part of the Y in Central Maryland tell us they do so because it reflects their values and a conscious decision, they’ve made about how they choose to live their lives. The happiest and most fulfilled Y associates are those who are motivated to help others and who want to be a part of something larger than themselves. If this speaks to your heart, then we invite you to join our team. Be a part of a charitable, mission-driven organization that works for individual and community well-being for all, for a better us.
Under the supervision of a Preschool Director, Lead Teacher or other assigned associate, the Youth Development Intern participates in a structured learning experience designed to provide exposure to Early Childhood Education and Youth Development practices within a Y Preschool. The internship complements the intern's academic or workforce development program by providing opportunities to observe, learn, and apply foundational concepts of child growth and development in a supervised classroom environment. ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS: Participate in a structured internship experience that supports educational and professional learning objectives. Observe classroom routines, transitions, and daily operations to gain an understanding of Y Preschool program practices and expectations. Learn and apply principles of child growth and development through supervised classroom experiences. Participate in age-appropriate learning activities under the direct guidance of classroom associates. Participate in coaching conversations, reflective discussions, and performance feedback to support continued learning and professional growth. Build relationships with associates and community members while demonstrating the organization’s core values of Caring, Honesty, Respect, and Responsibility. Complete assigned learning activities, documentation, and internship requirements as outlined by the internship agreement or educational institution. YMCA COMPETENCIES (Leader): Mission Advancement: Models and teaches the Ys values. Ensures a high level of service with a commitment to changing lives. Provides volunteers with orientation, training, development, and recognition. Cultivates relationships to support fund-raising.
Must meet qualifications established by the Y in Central Maryland. Good character, professional demeanor, and the ability to follow directions, accept supervision, and communicate clearly. Current enrollment in a program for Early Childhood Education in high school, college, university, vocational program, or workforce development program. Required to report to the site on designated workdays in accordance with organizational expectations. ENVIRONMENTAL FACTORS, PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS: Ability to walk, stand, climb, kneel, stoop, and lift up to 50 lbs.
Ability to sit or stand for extended periods; must be able to multitask in a fast-paced environment.
Must be able to perform physical duties of supervised positions when necessary.
Market context
In Maryland, preschool and youth development internships often draw interest from candidates pursuing early childhood pathways, especially when the role includes hands-on classroom support. These positions can be competitive because employers look for current enrollment in an Early Childhood Education program, a professional demeanor, and the ability to handle active, fast-paced work. Review the physical requirements carefully and prepare examples of childcare or classroom experience; this platform’s AI-summarized requirements and benefits help you assess fit faster from the original job description.
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