Preschool Assistant

POSITION SUMMARY The Preschool Assistant is responsible for supporting the lead teacher in providing a safe, engaging, and developmentally appropriate learning environment for young children enrolled in the YMCA preschool program. ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS Assist the lead teacher in planning and implementing daily lesson plans and activities that promote the physical, social, emotional, and cognitive development of preschool‑aged children. Provide support and guidance to children during structured learning activities, free play, and transitions throughout the day. Supervise and monitor children during classroom activities, outdoor play, meals, and rest periods to ensure their safety and well‑being. Maintain a positive and nurturing atmosphere where children feel valued, respected, and supported in their individual needs and interests. Assist with the implementation of the YMCA preschool curriculum, incorporating developmentally appropriate practices and standards. Support children’s exploration and learning through hands‑on experiences, sensory activities, art projects, and language‑rich interactions. Help maintain a positive and respectful classroom environment by modeling appropriate behavior, conflict resolution techniques, and social skills for children. Implement positive behavior management strategies, such as redirection, praise, and reinforcement, to support children’s self‑regulation and cooperation. Communicate regularly with parents and guardians to provide updates on children’s progress, activities, and behavior in the preschool program. Collaborate with the lead teacher to share observations, insights, and concerns regarding children’s development and well‑being. Ensure compliance with health and safety regulations, policies, and procedures in the preschool classroom. Follow proper sanitation and hygiene practices, supervise handwashing routines, and monitor children for signs of illness or injury. Maintain a clean, organized, and hazard‑free environment for children at all times. Work collaboratively with the lead teachers, fellow staff members, and other YMCA professionals to support the overall operation and success of the preschool program. Participate in staff meetings, training sessions, and professional development opportunities to enhance job performance and skills. Perform other duties as assigned. YMCA COMPETENCIES Mission Advancement Collaboration Operational Effectiveness Personal Growth QUALIFICATIONS Minimum age of 18. Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to interact effectively with children, parents, and colleagues. Patience, empathy, and enthusiasm for working with young children of diverse backgrounds and abilities. Knowledge of early childhood development principles, practices, and curriculum frameworks. Previous experience working with young children in a childcare, preschool, or education setting preferred. Certifications required within 60 days of employment: CPR, First Aid, AED, Oxygen Ability to complete the following within 30 days of hire: Child Abuse Prevention training Bloodborne Pathogens training Sexual Harassment training Passion for the YMCA mission and commitment to serving the community. WORK ENVIRONMENT & PHYSICAL DEMANDS Must be able to perform all physical requirements of the position, including walking, standing, bending, reaching, and lifting up to 50 lbs. at a time. #J-18808-Ljbffr