Movement Studio Instructor - Hogan Family YMCA

Heart of the Valley YMCA; Madison (AL); On-site; USD 18,000 - 30,000; Full time

Job summary

Heart of the Valley YMCA seeks a dedicated Movement Studio Instructor to lead developmentally appropriate movement classes for children in Madison, AL. You will use play-based and structured activities to build physical literacy, coordination, and confidence in a nurturing setting.

Ideal candidates have experience with children, strong communication, and the ability to create positive, structured environments. Current or obtainable CPR/AED and First Aid certifications are preferred.

Qualifications

• Experience working with children in teaching, coaching, or childcare settings.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills for families and children.
• Ability to manage a classroom and maintain a positive, inclusive environment.
• Commitment to child safety and age-appropriate instruction.
• Current CPR/AED and First Aid certifications are preferred or obtainable.

Responsibilities

• Lead age-appropriate movement classes for children (creative movement, yoga basics, tumbling, balance, coordination).
• Create fun, inclusive, and engaging class experiences that encourage participation and confidence.
• Teach proper movement patterns through games, stories, and creative instruction.
• Provide modifications and progressions to meet varying developmental levels and abilities.
• Maintain a safe class environment by monitoring space, equipment, and participant behavior.
• Model positive behavior, encouragement, and respectful communication with children and guardians.

Skills

Experience with children

Communication skills

Classroom management

Patience

Safety awareness

Education

CPR/AED certification

First Aid certification

Youth fitness certification

Youth safety training

Movement education certification

Job description

Job Details

Job Location: Madison, AL 35758

This position supports the work of the Y, a leading nonprofit, charitable organization committed to strengthening community through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility.The Movement Studio Instructor leads safe, engaging, and developmentally appropriate movement classes for children. This role uses play-based and structured movement to support physical literacy, coordination, confidence, and a lifelong love of movement in a positive, nurturing environment.

Our mission and core values are brought to life by our culture. At our Y, we strive to live our mission of loving our neighbor and helping each individual reach their full potential intentionally 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.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Lead age-appropriate movement classes for children (e.g., creative movement, basic yoga, tumbling, balance, coordination, strength, and mobility)
• Create fun, inclusive, and engaging class experiences that encourage participation and confidence
• Teach proper movement patterns through games, storytelling, and creative instruction
• Provide modifications and progressions to meet varying developmental levels and abilities
• Maintain a safe environment by monitoring class space, equipment, and participant behavior
• Model positive behavior, encouragement, and respectful communication
• Build relationships with children and communicate professionally with parents/guardians as needed
• Set up and break down studio equipment before and after classes

Qualifications

• Experience working with children in a teaching, coaching, or childcare setting
• Certification in youth fitness, movement education, gymnastics, dance, yoga for kids, or related field preferred
• Current CPR/AED and First Aid certification (or ability to obtain)
• Youth safety training (or willingness to complete required training)
• Strong communication, patience, and classroom management skills
• Ability to create a positive, supportive, and structured environment