Kids Play Team Lead - Shape Young Minds & Safe Fun

Greater Austin YMCA; Austin (TX); On-site; USD 42,000 - 56,000; Full time

Job summary

Greater Austin YMCA is seeking a Kids Play Lead to guide a team of play specialists, delivering engaging curriculum and activities that foster literacy, numeracy, social skills, and physical fitness. You will partner with families, ensure safety, and uphold YMCA values while modeling inclusive, caring behavior.

You will design weekly plans, mentor staff, and promote a welcoming, high-quality environment for children from 8 weeks to 12 years old, across morning and afternoon sessions.

Qualifications

• Minimum age 18 years.
• Experience in a childcare setting with leadership capabilities.
• Proficiency in leading activities for children aged 8 weeks to 12 years.
• Current First Aid, CPR/AED, and Emergency Oxygen certifications preferred.
• Fluency in Spanish/English preferred (not required).

Responsibilities

• Lead and support a team of Kids Play Team Members in delivering enriching activities and implementing a curriculum that fosters children’s social, physical, spiritual, and cognitive development.
• Design thematic weekly and monthly curriculum plans and create age-appropriate activities that promote literacy, numeracy, social skills, physical fitness, and creative exploration.
• Incorporate educational best practices and current trends to ensure a dynamic, engaging learning environment.
• Welcome children and families warmly, building strong relationships and ensuring a positive, inclusive experience.
• Facilitate activities that spark curiosity, problem-solving, cooperation, and imaginative play.
• Model respectful, nurturing interactions that support children’s emotional well-being and social growth.
• Ensure the safety and welfare of all children, consistently upholding YMCA rules, policies, and standards.
• Communicate effectively with parents about their child’s participation, progress, and daily experiences.
• Oversee cleanliness and organization of childcare spaces, maintaining a safe and inviting environment.
• Mentor and train new team members, fostering collaboration and a supportive team culture.
• Participate in staff meetings and contribute to continuous program improvement.
• Lead by example in promoting the YMCA’s mission, vision, values, and serve as an ambassador of the organization’s culture and impact.
• Complete other duties as assigned to support the success of the programs.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Teamwork

Problem solving

Customer focus

Job description

Greater Austin YMCA is seeking a Kids Play Lead to guide a team of play specialists, delivering engaging curriculum and activities that foster literacy, numeracy, social skills, and physical fitness. You will partner with families, ensure safety, and uphold YMCA values while modeling inclusive, caring behavior.

You will design weekly plans, mentor staff, and promote a welcoming, high-quality environment for children from 8 weeks to 12 years old, across morning and afternoon sessions.