Child Development Officer & Play Therapist

Placements24; South Africa; Hybrid; ZAR 350,000 - 700,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary package

Hybrid work model

Professional development opportunities

Medical aid

Generous annual leave

Job summary

Placements24 in Polokwane, Limpopo, seeks a qualified Child Development Officer & Play Therapist to support children's holistic growth through play-based interventions. The role is hybrid, combining on-site sessions at our Polokwane facility with occasional remote consultations.

You will assess development, design and deliver individual and group play therapy programs, counsel families, collaborate with parents and educators, and maintain confidential records.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Psychology, Child Development, Play Therapy, or related field.
• Professional qualification and certification in Play Therapy.
• Minimum of 5 years’ experience working with children in therapeutic or developmental roles.
• Experience administering and interpreting developmental assessments.

Responsibilities

• Conduct developmental assessments and provide diagnostic evaluations for children.
• Design and implement individualized play therapy programs for emotional and developmental needs.
• Facilitate individual and group therapy sessions using play therapy techniques.
• Provide counseling and support to children and their families.
• Collaborate with parents, caregivers, educators, and professionals to develop care plans.
• Monitor progress and adjust therapeutic interventions as needed.
• Maintain confidential client records and progress reports.
• Lead workshops for parents and educators on child development and play therapy.
• Advocate for the needs of children and families within the community.
• Stay updated with research and best practices in child development and play therapy.
• Develop and utilize appropriate therapeutic materials and resources.

Skills

Empathy

Communication

Interpersonal skills

Caseload management

Education

Master's degree in Psychology / Child Development / Play Therapy

Play Therapy certification

Tools

Play therapy tools

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking a qualified and compassionate Child Development Officer & Play Therapist to join their dedicated team in Polokwane, Limpopo . This role focuses on supporting the holistic development of children through specialized therapeutic interventions and developmental guidance. The successful candidate will work with children facing various developmental challenges, utilizing play therapy techniques and evidence-based practices to foster their emotional, social, and cognitive growth. This position requires a deep understanding of child psychology, developmental milestones, and therapeutic modalities. The role is primarily based in our facility in Polokwane but may involve occasional home visits or remote consultation, hence the hybrid nature of the role. We are looking for an empathetic and skilled professional committed to making a positive impact on the lives of children and families in the Limpopo region.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct developmental assessments and provide diagnostic evaluations for children.
• Design and implement individualized play therapy programs to address emotional, behavioral, and developmental needs.
• Facilitate individual and group therapy sessions using various play therapy techniques.
• Provide counseling and support to children and their families.
• Collaborate with parents, caregivers, educators, and other professionals to develop comprehensive care plans.
• Monitor children's progress and adjust therapeutic interventions as needed.
• Maintain accurate and confidential client records, including progress notes and reports.
• Organize and lead workshops and training sessions for parents and educators on child development and play therapy.
• Advocate for the needs of children and families within the community.
• Stay current with research and best practices in child development and play therapy.
• Develop and utilize appropriate therapeutic materials and resources.

Requirements

• Master's degree in Psychology, Child Development, Play Therapy, or a related field.
• Professional qualification and certification in Play Therapy.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience working directly with children in a therapeutic or developmental capacity.
• Proven experience in administering and interpreting developmental assessments.
• In-depth knowledge of child psychology, developmental theories, and therapeutic interventions.
• Excellent communication, empathy, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to build rapport and trust with children from diverse backgrounds.
• Strong organizational skills and ability to manage a caseload effectively.
• Experience with hybrid work models, including remote client interaction and documentation.
• Proficiency in relevant therapeutic tools and technologies.
• Registered with a relevant professional body in South Africa .

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary package commensurate with experience and qualifications, paid monthly.
• This hybrid role provides a balance between on-site and remote work flexibility.
• The position includes opportunities for professional development, conference attendance, and continuous learning.
• We offer comprehensive medical aid and generous annual leave.
• The working environment in Polokwane is supportive and collaborative, focused on enhancing the well-being of children in the Limpopo province.
• This is a rewarding opportunity to contribute meaningfully to the community.