SKILLBRIDGE Child & Youth Program Lead/Assistant

Armed Services YMCA El Paso; Virginia Beach (VA); On-site; Full time

Job description

Job Overview

Five Star Kids Academy – Child & Youth Program Assistant

Salary: Skillbridge $0 | Status: Must apply for a minimum of 180 days | Hours: Monday–Friday, 40 hours per week | Location: Armed Services YMCA Regional Location – 1465 Lakeside Road, VA Beach, VA 23455 and affiliate locations throughout Hampton Roads.

Assignment

The CYP Skillbridge Intern works closely with peers under the direct supervision of the Child & Youth Programs Director to implement high‑quality childcare that meets the social‑emotional needs of students ages 3–12. The position requires an enthusiastic, caring, child‑centered professional who fosters positive interactions with students, staff, families and the community.

Education and Experience Required

• High School Diploma or GED or verification of completion of a state‑approved home‑school program and six months of supervised group‑care experience.
• Some college credits plus six months of supervised group‑care experience.
• Or an endorsement, associate’s or bachelor’s degree in a child‑related field (e.g., elementary education, nursing, recreation) with one year of programmatic experience (preferred).

Additional Requisites

• Must be 21 years of age.
• Complete background and drug checks.
• Comply with Virginia Dept. of Education licensing requirements for child day centers.
• Have a valid driver’s license and good driving record.
• Knowledge of the military lifestyle and community social services agencies (a plus).
• Must be able to lift 25 lbs., sit, bend, stand for long periods, and walk up and down stairs inside and outside.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Complete staff and organization training: acquire the knowledge and methodology to create and implement high‑quality, age‑appropriate lessons that promote STREAM, literacy, health and safety, environmental awareness, and character development.
• Maintain accurate attendance records.
• Supervise children at all times and conduct regular name‑face counts.
• Assist in facilitating field trips and weekly swimming trips to a local pool.
• Assist in creating an attractive learning environment.
• Promote a positive, fun attitude and foster teamwork and collaboration.
• Adhere to all policies and procedures as set forth in the parent/guardian and employee handbooks.
• Maintain a safe, organized learning environment and secure all YMCA materials and supplies.
• Stay engaged and interacting with students while in your care.
• Encourage problem solving, conflict resolution, and self‑regulation.
• Clean and sanitize all toys, manipulatives, and classroom areas; complete opening and closing procedures on the daily checklist.
• Model healthy habits and behaviors.
• Report suspected child abuse or neglect to the Child & Youth Programs Director immediately.
• Document all incidents and injuries fully and follow all policies and procedures per licensing regulations specified by the Virginia Department of Education.
• Communicate program concerns to the Child & Youth Programs Director or SAC Manager in a timely manner.
• Check YMCA email daily and respond promptly to requests.
• Dress professionally, wear YMCA staff shirts with name badge, and represent the Armed Services YMCA of Hampton Roads at all times.
• Log work hours daily.
• Serve as a substitute as needed.
• Other duties as assigned.

Contact Information

For more information, please contact the Child & Youth Programs Director, Tessa Davis by email at [e-mail] or call 757‑363‑1884.

Equality and Diversity Statement

The Armed Services YMCA is an equal‑opportunity employer and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any kind. All employment decisions are made based on business needs, job requirements, and individual qualifications without regard to race, color, religion, or any other status protected by law.