Preschool Counselor Aide: Grow Young Minds

YMCA of Portsmouth; Virginia Beach (VA); On-site; USD 17,000 - 25,000; Full time

Job summary

YMCA is hiring a Counselor (Program Aide) to support a lead counselor in creating a nurturing preschool classroom. You’ll help supervise children, support activities, and foster development in cognitive, social-emotional, physical, and language domains.

Ideal candidates are at least 16, able to obtain CPR/First Aid within 30 days, and committed to safety, communication with families, and professional growth within a community-focused program.

Qualifications

• Shall be at least 16 years of age
• CPR/First Aid certifications required within 30 days of hire
• Completes all pre-employment requirements including background checks
• Adequate speaking, hearing and writing skills appropriate for interacting with children
• Ability to be on time, every time for scheduled shifts

Responsibilities

• Supervision and Safety: Ensure the safety and well-being of children at all times, actively supervising activities, meals, and transitions.
• Support Activities: Assist Program Leaders in preparing and implementing developmentally appropriate curriculum and activities across cognitive, social-emotional, physical, and language domains.
• Child Engagement: Engage children in meaningful play experiences, fostering exploration, creativity, and critical thinking, with individualized attention.
• Behavior Management: Support positive behavior guidance techniques that promote self-regulation and social skills development.
• Communication: Communicate effectively with children, parents/guardians, staff, and YMCA leadership; provide progress feedback.
• Professional Development: Participate in training sessions, staff meetings, and professional development opportunities

Skills

Supervision

Curriculum support

Child engagement

Communication with families

Job description

YMCA is hiring a Counselor (Program Aide) to support a lead counselor in creating a nurturing preschool classroom. You’ll help supervise children, support activities, and foster development in cognitive, social-emotional, physical, and language domains.

Ideal candidates are at least 16, able to obtain CPR/First Aid within 30 days, and committed to safety, communication with families, and professional growth within a community-focused program.