Activity Specialist

Children's Aid Society; New York (NY); On-site; USD 34,440 - 48,216; Part time

Job summary

Children's Aid Society in New York is seeking an Activity Specialist to lead enrichment and instructional activities for students. This role involves supervising groups, crafting lesson plans, and fostering a welcoming environment. Ideal candidates will have at least one year of experience working with children and a preferred bachelor’s degree.

Expertise in areas such as STEAM and a commitment to child development are essential. The position requires a flexible schedule to meet program needs.

Qualifications

• One year of experience working with children in relevant specialized areas.
• Demonstrated expertise in areas like STEAM or literacy.
• Experience in a school or out-of-school program.

Responsibilities

• Lead and plan enrichment activities for students.
• Supervise groups of up to 20 participants.
• Collaborate with program staff on activities.

Skills

Instructional planning

Child and youth development knowledge

Group management

Education

High School Diploma

Bachelor’s degree

Job description

$25.00 - $35.00 / hour

Position Summary

Under the supervision of the Program Director, the Activity Specialist is responsible for leading high‑quality instructional and enrichment activities for students participating in the afterschool and summer programs. This position requires subject‑matter expertise in a specialized activity area such as STEAM, literacy, sports, academic support, health and fitness, or visual and performing arts. The Activity Specialist is responsible for curriculum implementation, lesson planning, classroom management, and fostering a safe, engaging, and supportive learning environment for all participants. Must be available to work during designated afterschool and/or summer program hours.

Essential Duties

• Understand and promote the organization's Mission, Vision, and Core Values to ensure alignment with organizational policies and procedures.
• Supervise and manage groups of up to 20 participants in a structured program setting.
• Demonstrate strong moral, ethical, and professional conduct, serving as a positive role model for youth.
• Develop, plan, and implement lessons aligned with program curriculum, themes, and project‑based learning objectives.
• Lead and instruct specialty enrichment activities requiring specific expertise in areas including but not limited to STEAM, literacy, academic support, sports, health and fitness, and visual and performing arts.
• Collaborate with Group Leaders and program staff in the development and implementation of program themes and instructional activities.
• Monitor student progress and performance and utilize engaging, age‑appropriate, and intentional instructional materials.
• Adapt instructional strategies to meet the diverse learning needs and abilities of participants.
• Facilitate and inspire youth‑led projects that promote creativity, self‑expression, and critical thinking.
• Establish and maintain effective classroom management and behavioral expectations.
• Build and sustain positive relationships with children and their families.
• Provide consistent encouragement, guidance, and support to participants.
• Plan, organize, teach, and supervise games and recreational activities.
• Assist with tasks necessary for the overall operation of the program.
• Actively supervise participants during mealtimes, transitions, and off‑site trips.
• Ensure program equipment and materials are properly signed out, maintained, cleaned, and returned.
• Attend and actively participate in required staff meetings, professional development, and trainings.
• Work cooperatively and professionally with other staff members, school personnel, and program partners.
• Perform additional duties as assigned, including leading or supporting special events.

Minimum Qualifications

• High School Diploma required; bachelor’s degree preferred.
• Minimum of one (1) year of experience working with children in the relevant area of specialization (e.g., STEAM, literacy, sports, academic support, arts).
• Demonstrated expertise or advanced experience in a specific activity area; subject‑matter specialists or practitioners preferred.
• Experience working in a school setting or out‑of‑school‑time program preferred.

Key Competencies

• Knowledge and understanding of child and youth development.
• Strong instructional planning and program implementation skills.
• Ability to engage and manage groups of children in a structured learning environment.
• Experience working collaboratively with children, families, and staff.
• Effective communication, organization, and problem‑solving skills.
• Ability to adapt instruction to meet diverse learning needs.

Desired Behaviors

• Team Player – Works well as a member of a group.
• Detail Oriented – Capable of carrying out a given task with all details necessary to get the task done well.
• Dedicated – Devoted to a task or purpose with loyalty or integrity.

Children's Aid will not tolerate discrimination, harassment, or retaliation on any basis, including race, creed, color, national origin, ethnicity, alienage or citizenship status, gender/sex (including pregnancy), disability, religion, source of income, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, familial status, caregiver status, military status, marital or partnership status, status as a victim of domestic violence, sexual violence or stalking, predisposing genetic characteristics, arrest or conviction record, credit history, unemployment status or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local law.

The incumbent is expected to work a schedule, whether in‑person or hybrid, as determined by the department's needs to facilitate effective collaboration with the team. This flexibility is essential for maintaining seamless communication, fostering teamwork, and ensuring the smooth operation of the department's processes.