Kids Play Team Lead (Southwest)

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

Why Your Role Matters

As the Kids Play Lead, you will play a pivotal role in fostering a nurturing and dynamic environment that supports children's holistic development. By leading a dedicated team, you will design and implement engaging curriculum plans aligned with YMCA values, promoting literacy, numeracy, social skills, and physical fitness. Your leadership will ensure a secure and welcoming space where children can thrive emotionally, socially, and physically. By building strong relationships with families and maintaining high standards of safety and organization, you will create a positive experience for all.

We are seeking candidates with flexible weekday availability, particularly during early morning and afternoon hours.

How You Will Make An Impact

• 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.

What You Bring To The Y

• Minimum age requirement of 18 years.
• Fluency in Spanish/English preferred (not required).
• Previous experience in a childcare setting, with demonstrated leadership capabilities.
• Proficiency in leading activities and creating engaging experiences for children aged 8 weeks (about 2 months) to 12 years.
• Current certifications in First Aid, CPR/AED, and Emergency Oxygen are preferred.
• Ability to remain calm and effective in high-pressure situations, with excellent problem-solving skills.
• Commitment to YMCA values and promoting a culture of inclusion and community.
• Growth Mindset: Learn and improve to better serve members and the mission.
• Team Player: Work collaboratively with others and support a positive team environment.
• Communicates Effectively: Listen actively and communicate clearly with members and peers.
• Customer Focused: Anticipates needs and ensures quality, member-centered service.
• Fosters Belonging: Ensure everyone feels welcomed, respected, and included.

Physical Requirement

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to sit, stand, walk, bend, talk, and occasionally lift and/or move items, including equipment, furniture, and/or children. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.