Before & After School Counselor I

YMCA of South Hampton Roads; Norfolk (VA); On-site; USD 16,531 - 22,041; Full time

Job summary

YMCA of South Hampton Roads seeks a Counselor (Program Aide) to help provide a nurturing learning environment for young children in our preschool program.

You will support the Counselor (Program Lead) with developmentally appropriate curriculum, safety, and positive interactions with children and families. This role emphasizes teamwork, reliability, and ongoing professional development within a values-driven culture.

Qualifications

• Must be at least 16 years of age.
• Ability to interact with children with patience and empathy.
• Strong communication with families and staff.

Responsibilities

• Supervise and ensure safety of children at all times and follow safety protocols.
• Assist Program Leaders in preparing and implementing age-appropriate activities.
• Engage children in meaningful play to support cognitive, social-emotional, physical, and language development.
• Model positive behavior and reinforce good conduct with praise and support.
• Communicate with children, parents/guardians, staff, and YMCA leadership about progress and needs.
• Participate in training sessions and staff meetings to enhance skills.

Skills

Child care

Communication

Safety awareness

Job description

Description

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 (Program Aide), you will play a vital role in supporting the Counselor (Program Lead) in providing a nurturing and stimulating learning environment for young children. Your enthusiasm, dedication, and passion for early childhood education will contribute to the success of our preschool program.

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.
• Support Activities: Assist Program Leaders in preparing and implementing developmentally appropriate curriculum and activities that promote learning and development across all domains: cognitive, social‑emotional, physical, and language.
• Child Engagement: Engage children in meaningful play experiences, encouraging exploration, creativity, and critical thinking. Foster positive relationships and provide individualized attention and support to meet the needs of each child.
• 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.
• Communication: Communicate effectively with children, parents/guardians, fellow staff members, and YMCA leadership. Provide feedback on childrens’ 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.

LEADERSHIP COMPETENCIES:

• Functional Expertise
• Program and Project Management
• Developing Self and Others

QUALIFICATIONS:

The Counselor (Program Aide) will meet the qualifications set forth by the YMCA of South Hampton Roads and the Virginia Department of Education, Division of Child Care Health and Safety.

Minimum qualifications include:

• Shall be at least 16 years of age
• Shall work under the supervision of an individual qualified to be a Program Lead.
• Staff shall be in good character and reputation
• CPR/First Aid certifications required within 30 days of hire
• Completes all pre‑employment requirements including background checks
• Adequate speaking, hearing and writing skills appropriate for interacting with children
• required
• Ability to be on time, every time for scheduled shifts required
• Ability to work at various program locations preferred
• Ability to develop positive, authentic relationships with people from different backgrounds

WORK ENVIRONMENT AND PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

• Will be required to walk, stand, kneel, stoop, push, and lift up to 50 pounds
• While performing duties the employee may occasionally work in the outside weather conditions, and is exposed to wet, cold and /or humid conditions
• Continuous operations requiring attention to detail and multi‑tasking
• Will be exposed to cleaning supplies
• Must be able to stand or sit for long periods of time
• Must be physically able to successfully complete required certifications
• During peak program seasons, may be expected to work night and weekend hours to meet program needs
• Accountable for completion of assigned goals as measured by the number of people served and service satisfaction scores.

BACKGROUND CHECKS:

An offer of employment is contingent upon receipt of satisfactory results to meet minimum requirements of the position. They may include criminal background and reference checks, E-Verify, drug test, driver’s license record, and/or a Child Protective Services Check (CPS). Additional driver’s license check, CPS, criminal background check, alcohol, and/or drug testing may be required to be processed in the future in order to meet and/or maintain the requirements of this position.