FT Youth Enrichment Instructor

YMCA of Metropolitan Chicago; Naperville (IL); On-site; USD 21,000 - 28,000; Full time

Job summary

The YMCA of Metropolitan Chicago is seeking a Youth Enrichment Instructor to implement diverse enrichment activities for grades K-8 in before- or after-school settings. The YEI creates a safe, supportive, interactive and enriching program experience while upholding safety protocols.

Responsibilities include planning daily activities, supervising youth, communicating with families and staff, maintaining records, and participating in team events to foster a positive YMCA community.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Education, Child Development, Social Work, or related field.
• Minimum of 2 years of experience working with youth in educational or recreational settings.
• Proven ability to establish positive relationships and model YMCA values.
• Excellent communication skills and commitment to diverse youth engagement.

Responsibilities

• Creates a safe, supportive, interactive environment with teamwork and inclusiveness.
• Provides age-appropriate supervision and meets safety and policy requirements.
• Interacts warmly with youth, parents/guardians and staff to build relationships.
• Prepares daily/weekly lesson plans and ensures materials are ready.
• Maintains attendance and program records as required.
• Participates in team meetings and special events.

Skills

Verbal & written communication

Child development knowledge

Team collaboration

Conflict resolution

Creative activity design

Education

Bachelor's degree in Education, Child Development, Social Work, or related field

Job description

Job Summary and Key Accountabilities

The Youth Enrichment Instructor (YEI) is responsible for implementing and adapting a wide variety of enrichment activities for grades K-8 in a before or after school program setting. The YEI plays a key role in ensuring that program participants have a safe, supportive, interactive and enriching program experience while ensuring the safety and security of all program participants.

Scope Of Responsibilities

• Creates a safe, supportive, interactive and engaging environment for youth that is characterized by teamwork, camaraderie and inclusiveness. This includes demonstrating an appreciation of the youths’ efforts and accomplishments and providing assistance and encouragement to program participants when needed.
• Provides effective supervision of youth that is age-appropriate, considers diverse abilities and interests and meets program quality, safety and policy requirements.
• Positively interacts with youth, parents/guardians and other team members to create a respectful, warm, supportive environment. Models self-control, respect and cooperation to teens and other team members. Utilizes youth 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 daily 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.
• Participates in team meetings and other special events

Minimum And Preferred Requirements Knowledge, Skills And Abilities

• 18 years of age and at least 5 years older than the oldest child with whom they work
• H.S. Diploma or GED along with related college coursework and/or equivalent experience in a childcare, education, recreation or related program. Additional age, educational or experience requirements may be required based on program license requirements.
• 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 youth.
• Excellent verbal communication skills, including the ability to clearly and concisely present ideas and concepts and tailor communication to multiple audiences.
• Ability to identify and leverage developmentally appropriate practices in conducting after-school 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.

Qualifications

Required Education

• Bachelor's degree in Education, Child Development, Social Work, or a related field.

Required Experience

• Minimum of 2 years of experience working with youth in an educational or recreational setting.
• Proven track record of developing and implementing youth programs that foster enrichment and engagement.
• Experience in a leadership or supervisory role within a youth-focused organization.

Required Skills And Abilities

• Strong understanding of child and adolescent development principles.
• Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written, with the ability to engage effectively with youth, parents, and colleagues.
• Ability to design and execute creative and educational activities that cater to diverse youth interests and needs.
• Proficient in conflict resolution and problem-solving, ensuring a safe and supportive environment for all participants.
• Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively within a team and adapt to changing situations and priorities.
• Competency in using technology and software relevant to program management and communication.