Pediatric Support Worker & Play Therapist Assistant

Placements24; Vereeniging; On-site; ZAR 120,000 - 180,000; Part time

Benefits offered by this job

Part-time role

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a compassionate Pediatric Support Worker & Play Therapist Assistant in Vereeniging. You will support children with diverse needs, assist in therapeutic play, and work with a multidisciplinary team to implement care plans.

The role is part-time, emphasizes empathy and child welfare, and offers valuable experience in pediatric care and play therapy within a dedicated team environment.

Qualifications

• Qualification in Child and Youth Care, Social Work, Psychology, or related field.
• Experience with children, especially those with special needs or in therapeutic settings.
• Passion for child welfare and development.
• Excellent communication, empathy and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work in a multidisciplinary team.
• Background checks will be required.
• Physical ability to assist children.
• Patience and resilience.
• Knowledge of pediatric care practices is advantageous.

Responsibilities

• Assist in direct care and support to children.
• Facilitate structured play activities aligned with therapy goals.
• Support play therapist in setting up sessions.
• Observe and document interactions and progress.
• Maintain a safe, clean therapeutic environment.
• Assist with feeding, hygiene, and mobility as needed.
• Communicate with healthcare team and families about care.
• Respond promptly to children's needs.
• Adhere to organizational policies and safety standards.
• Provide emotional support to children and families.

Skills

Empathy

Excellent communication

Interpersonal skills

Team collaboration

Patience

Education

Child and Youth Care

Social Work

Psychology

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a specialized pediatric care center in Vereeniging , Gauteng, is seeking a compassionate and dedicated Pediatric Support Worker & Play Therapist Assistant. This role is vital in providing essential support to children requiring specialized care, ensuring their comfort, safety, and engagement through therapeutic play activities. You will work closely with a team of healthcare professionals and play therapists to implement individualized care plans, facilitate developmental activities, and create a positive and therapeutic environment for young patients. The ideal candidate will possess a gentle demeanor, excellent interpersonal skills, and a strong commitment to child welfare. We are looking for an empathetic individual who can make a significant positive impact on the lives of children in Vereeniging and their families during challenging times.

Key Responsibilities

• Assist in providing direct care and support to children with diverse needs, ensuring their physical and emotional well-being.
• Facilitate structured play activities designed to support children's therapeutic goals and developmental progress.
• Support the play therapist in preparing and setting up therapeutic play sessions.
• Observe and document children's interactions, responses, and progress during activities.
• Maintain a clean, safe, and organized therapeutic environment.
• Assist with feeding, hygiene, and mobility as needed, following established protocols.
• Communicate effectively with the healthcare team, therapists, and families regarding the child's care.
• Respond promptly and appropriately to children's needs and concerns.
• Adhere to all organizational policies, procedures, and safety standards.
• Provide emotional support and encouragement to children and their families.

Requirements

• A qualification in Child and Youth Care, Social Work, Psychology, or a related field is preferred.
• Previous experience working with children, particularly those with special needs or in a therapeutic setting.
• A genuine passion for child welfare and development.
• Excellent communication, empathy, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work effectively within a multidisciplinary team.
• Basic understanding of therapeutic play principles.
• Willingness to undergo thorough background checks.
• Physical ability to assist children as required.
• Patience, resilience, and a positive attitude.
• Knowledge of pediatric care practices is a significant advantage.

Benefits

This part-time position offers an annual salary of R , pro-rated based on hours worked, and is commensurate with experience. Our client provides a supportive and professional working atmosphere, invaluable experience in pediatric care and play therapy, and the profound satisfaction of contributing to the well‑being of children in Vereeniging . Join a dedicated team focused on making a difference through compassionate care and therapeutic intervention.