Early Learning Enrichment Instructor

Priority Dispatch Corp.; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 21,000 - 29,000; Part time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Health, dental, and vision insurance

PTO and paid holidays

403(b) plan with company contributions

Job summary

Priority Dispatch Corp. seeks a part-time Preschool Care Specialist to support Lake View YMCA program activities in Chicago, IL. The role focuses on nurturing child development through structured play, language-rich interactions, and consistent routines.

The position involves diapering/toileting, meal times, and active play, with emphasis on safety and individualized attention. Prior childcare experience and strong communication skills are required, with opportunities for growth within the

Qualifications

• H.S. Diploma or GED with related college coursework and/or equivalent experience in childcare/education.
• 1-3 years' experience with preschool-aged students.
• Ability to implement age-appropriate learning activities and adapt to individual needs.

Responsibilities

• Provide a positive climate of prompt, responsive care to help children develop secure relationships.
• Adhere to continuity of relationships and work with preschool groups.
• Create a language-rich environment with talking, singing and eye-level interaction.
• Follow routines to provide predictable yet flexible schedules for preschoolers.

Skills

Communication

Patience

Teamwork

Flexibility

Observation

Safety awareness

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Related coursework in childcare/education

Job description

Job Details

Job Location: Lake View YMCA - Chicago, IL 60657

Position Type: Part Time

Salary Range: $17.80 - $17.80 Hourly

Salary starts at $17.80 per hour with opportunities to grow within the organization

Scope of Responsibilities

• Provide a positive climate of prompt and consistent responsive and individualized care to help children develop secure relationships and attachment throughout the day including diapering/toileting meal and active play and floor times.
• Adhere to continuity of relationship practices and work with assigned group of preschool children applying best practices for Preschool.
• Provide a language rich environment which includes consistency in talking, singing and relating to children's verbal and nonverbal cues, at eye level.
• Follow consistent routines and make certain the schedule for Preschool children is regular enough to be predictable, but flexible enough to meet their individual needs.
• Meet the individual needs of each child, at their physical level (kneeling, bending, or sitting on the floor).
• Maintain awareness and supervision of the needs of the entire group to ensure the safety of each child whether in the classroom, outside or in common areas.
• Participate in required health and safety procedures to reduce the spread of germs for the sake of children, parents and staff.
• Integrate and assist children with special needs and adapt activities accordingly.
• Utilize routines as opportunities for strengthening development, learning, and skill growth.
• Positively interacts with youth, parents/guardians and other team members to create a respectful, warm, supportive environment.
• Utilizes arrival/departure ensure to share information with parents/guardians and to build relationships.
• Prepares lesson plans on a daily and/or weekly basis outlining program activities, ensures materials and supplies are available and ready for program activities, and ensures all program areas and supplies are clean and well maintained regularly.
• Maintains accurate attendance, instructional and other records as necessary to meet program requirements.
• Maintain regular job attendance, professionalism in attire and demeanor, observe and respect issues of confidentiality, ethics, and best practices.
• Support the YMCA's mission and Hub operations as assigned.
• Discreetly handle sensitive information and maintain confidentiality at all times.

Lesson Planning and Classroom Management

• Provide individualized age-appropriate learning experiences that incorporates social emotional, cognitive and physical development, early language stimulation, literacy and integration of the arts
• Implement well-organized learning environments, with developmentally appropriate schedules, individualized plans, and indoor/outdoor learning experiences that provide adequate opportunities for play and exploration among a variety of learning, sensory, and motor experiences.
• Respond quickly to children's cues, different and personal needs, temperament styles, abilities, and cultures.
• Communicate regularly and work cooperatively with adults assigned to the classroom, establishing clear expectations for roles and responsibilities and to achieve positive outcomes for children of all abilities.

Minimum and Preferred Qualifications

• H.S. Diploma or GED along with related college coursework and/or equivalent experience in a childcare, education, recreation or related program. Additional educational or experience requirements may be required based on program license requirements.
• 1-3 years' experience working with preschool aged students.
• Apply early childhood development theory, curriculum and practices in daily activities and adapt to children's individual needs and interests.
• Proficient verbal and written communication skills and ability to tailor communication to different audiences.
• Flexibility to care for children 2 years - 5 years, interact at their eye level, move quickly, monitor and assess situations.
• Ability to build rapport and to respect the cultural and socioeconomic diversity of the population served. Must have the proven ability to establish constructive relationships and interact as a positive role model for youth and staff demonstrating the values of respect, responsibility, caring and honesty.
• Commitment to and passion for the YMCA of Metro Chicago's mission is required including a passion for working with diverse early learners.
• Excellent verbal communication skills, including the ability to clearly and concisely present ideas and concepts and tailor to YMCA of Metropolitan Chicago communication to multiple audiences.
• Ability to identify and leverage developmentally appropriate practices in conducting activities; ability to observe student behavior and apply appropriate behavior management techniques.
• Continuous learner who leverages opportunities for learning and applies new knowledge and skills.
• Demonstrates evidence of YMCA Y Team competencies in previous experience or practice.
• Meets physical qualifications required as outlined in job description. The YMCA will provide reasonable accommodations for persons with disabilities

Child Abuse Prevention & Safety

• Reporting any items that may provide a health or safety hazard to staff, members or guests to your supervisor.
• Following all policies and procedures related to keeping children safe in our facilities and programs, including those related to the monitoring and supervision of children.
• Reporting any suspicious behavior and violation of policy and procedures to your supervisor.
• Completing all child abuse prevention training as required.

Benefits & Perks

• Competitive salaries reflecting your skills and experience.
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance for eligible employees, plus wellness programs, mental health resources, and a family gym membership.
• Generous PTO and paid holidays, with flexible work hours for work-life balance.
• 403(b) plan with company contributions for eligible employees after 2 years of service.
• Continuous learning opportunities through workshops and training programs.
• Supportive work environment valuing diversity, equity, and inclusion.
• Discounts on programs, employee assistance programs, and company-sponsored events.

Qualifications and Behaviors

• Innovative: Consistently introduces new ideas and demonstrates original thinking.
• Enthusiastic: Shows intense and eager enjoyment and interest.
• Ability to Make an Impact: Inspired to perform well by the ability to contribute to the success of a project or the organization.
• Growth Opportunities: Inspired to perform well by the chance to take on more responsibility.
• Self-Starter: Inspired to perform without outside help.