Assistant Teacher

Valley Shore YMCA; Old Saybrook (CT); On-site; USD 20,000 - 29,000; Part time

Benefits offered by this job

Free Valley Shore YMCA Membership

Flexible scheduling

Tuition discounts at selected colleges

Paid training and CPR/AED assistance

Advancement opportunities

Job summary

Valley Shore YMCA is seeking a friendly Pre-School Assistant Teacher to support families and children in our community at the Goodwin School in Old Saybrook, CT. This part-time role offers meaningful work with children, flexible hours, and a free YMCA membership.

Responsibilities include safe supervision, assisting with activities, and maintaining a welcoming environment aligned with the YMCA values of Caring, Honesty, Respect, and Responsibility.

Qualifications

• Strong customer service and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to relate effectively to diverse groups of children and families.
• Commitment to a safe, nurturing, and developmentally appropriate environment.
• Must meet minimum age requirement of 16.
• Previous childcare or education experience preferred.

Responsibilities

• Provide active supervision and positive engagement for children in Child Watch programs.
• Learn and address children by name to build rapport and support a welcoming atmosphere.
• Introduce children to program rules, routines, and designated activity areas.
• Ensure the safety and well-being of each child, including accurate attendance tracking.
• Report all accidents or incidents promptly and complete required documentation.
• Follow YMCA policies and regulatory procedures to ensure a safe and supportive environment.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and age-appropriate program space, including equipment and supplies.
• Support implementation of themed activities, special projects, and enrichment experiences.
• Communicate respectfully and positively with parents, members, youth, and coworkers.
• Attend required meetings, trainings, and professional development opportunities.

Skills

Customer service

Verbal communication

Relationship building

Safety awareness

Tools

CPR/AED certification

First Aid certification

Job description

Job Details: Job Location: School Age Program at the Goodwin School - Old Saybrook, CT 06475, Position Type: Part Time, Salary Range: $18.00 - $18.00 Hourly, About the Role

The Valley Shore YMCA is seeking a friendly, reliable, and nurturing Pre-School Assistant Teacher to support families and children in our community by providing safe, attentive supervision in our Before & After School programs. This position plays a key role in creating a positive, welcoming, and inclusive environment where children feel engaged, supported, and empowered while their caregivers are at work or school.

As a Pre-School Assistant Teacher you’ll be a key presence in the program, helping ensure activities run smoothly, children are supervised safely, and the overall experience reflects the YMCA’s values of Caring, Honesty, Respect, and Responsibility.

Job Summary

Join the Valley Shore YMCA and support our mission of strengthening families and building community. In this role, you’ll provide safe supervision, assist with program activities, and help maintain an organized, safe, and welcoming environment for children. This position is perfect for anyone who enjoys working with children, values meaningful part-time work, and thrives in a collaborative, community-focused environment. Enjoy free Valley Shore YMCA membership, training opportunities, and flexible hours while making a difference in your community.

What You’ll Do

• Provide active supervision and positive engagement for children in Child Watch programs.
• Learn and address children by name to build rapport and support a welcoming atmosphere.
• Introduce children to program rules, routines, and designated activity areas.
• Ensure the safety and well-being of each child, including accurate attendance tracking.
• Report all accidents or incidents promptly and complete required documentation.
• Follow all YMCA policies and regulatory procedures to ensure a safe and supportive environment.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and age-appropriate program space, including equipment and supplies.
• Support implementation of themed activities, special projects, and enrichment experiences.
• Communicate respectfully and positively with parents, members, youth, and coworkers.
• Attend required meetings, trainings, and professional development opportunities.

Qualifications: What We’re Looking For

• Ability to relate effectively to diverse groups of children and families.
• Commitment to promoting a safe, nurturing, and developmentally appropriate environment.
• Strong customer service and verbal communication skills.
• Must meet minimum age requirement of 16.
• Previous experience working with children in childcare, education, or developmental programs preferred.
• Ability to plan, organize, and support developmentally appropriate activities.
• Professionalism and maturity when interacting with children, families, and staff.
• Strong organizational skills and ability to communicate clearly with parents and coworkers.
• Child Abuse Prevention training required within 7 days of hire.
• CPR/AED and First Aid certification required within 90 days of hire (YMCA can provide training).

Work Schedule

• Part-time, flexible hours available.
• Ideal for students, early-career professionals, or anyone seeking meaningful part-time work with children.

Incentives & Perks

• Free Valley Shore YMCA Membership (includes access to all fitness facilities).
• Discounted family memberships and certain program fees (childcare, swim lessons, camps, etc.).
• Eligible for tuition discounts at selected colleges.
• Flexible scheduling to fit school, family, or other work commitments.
• Paid training and CPR/AED certification assistance.
• Opportunities for advancement into Wellness, Aquatics, or Youth Program departments.
• Supportive, community-oriented work environment that values wellness and personal growth.

Why Work at the Valley Shore YMCA?

At the Valley Shore YMCA, we believe work should be more than a job - it should be meaningful. Our culture is built on Caring, Honesty, Respect, and Responsibility - the core values of the Valley Shore YMCA.

We foster a supportive, inclusive environment where staff are encouraged to learn, grow, and thrive. Whether you’re helping a member reach their fitness goal or keeping our wellness floor safe and inviting, your work directly contributes to the well-being of our entire community.

When you join our team, you’re not just improving your career - you’re helping build a stronger, healthier, and more connected Valley Shore.

About the Valley Shore YMCA

The Valley Shore YMCA serves the shoreline community by promoting health, wellness, and youth development through inclusive programs and services. Our mission is to strengthen the foundations of community by nurturing the potential of every individual - in spirit, mind, and body.