Child Watch Associate

JOB SUMMARY Under the close supervision of the Member Service Director, the Child Watch Associate provides a safe, nurturing, and engaging environment for children ages 6 weeks to 8 years. This role ensures parents have peace of mind while their children are cared for in a positive, developmentally appropriate setting. Through active supervision, intentional engagement, and consistent safety practices, the Child Watch Associate fosters each child's growth, learning, and sense of belonging.

Evening availability needed Monday through Thursday between 4:30pm to 7:30pm, plus rotating weekends 9am to 12pm. These are the available shifts but not required to work all of the weekdays.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

Engage with children through age-appropriate activities, games, reading, and free play to promote learning, creativity, and enjoyment in a supportive environment.

Welcome parents and children warmly by greeting them by name and building trusting relationships to create a positive and inclusive experience for every family.

Monitor the room continuously by maintaining visual and physical awareness and setting clear, age-appropriate expectations to ensure a safe, respectful, and orderly environment for all children.

Assist parents with accurate check-in and check-out procedures by verifying identification and attendance logs to ensure each child's security and accountability during their visit.

Provide attentive care by bottle-feeding infants, changing diapers, assisting with bathroom needs, and offering comfort to meet the physical and emotional needs of every child.

Maintain accurate tracking and escort procedures for children attending approved YMCA programs to ensure smooth transitions and uphold safety protocols.

Keep the Child Watch area clean and sanitized by following daily cleaning checklists, disinfecting toys and surfaces, and adhering to opening and closing procedures to provide a healthy and welcoming space for all participants.

QUALIFICATIONS

Previous experience in childcare, babysitting, or group supervision of children preferred.

High school diploma or equivalent preferred; must be at least 16 years of age (or turning 16 within 30 days of application).

Ability to positively engage with children across various ages and developmental stages.

Strong interpersonal and communication skills to connect effectively with children, parents, and coworkers.

Ability to remain calm, patient, and flexible in a fast-paced environment.

General knowledge of child safety, age-appropriate play, and positive behavior management practices.

COMPETENCIES

Accountability: Takes ownership of decisions, actions, and results. Follows through on commitments and accepts responsibility. Completes assigned tasks on time and accepts feedback without defensiveness. Adheres to established policies and procedures.

Building Relationships: Creates authentic connections with children, parents, and coworkers by showing warmth, empathy, and respect, building trust that strengthens the overall YMCA community experience.

Emotional Intelligence: Demonstrates patience, empathy, and self-awareness when responding to children's needs or managing challenging behaviors, ensuring a calm and nurturing atmosphere.

Communication: Shares information clearly and positively with parents, children, and team members, actively listening and adjusting communication to meet individual needs.

Customer-Focused: Provides attentive, responsive service to parents and guardians, anticipating their needs and ensuring every family feels valued and confident in the care provided.

Trustworthiness: Acts with honesty, reliability, and integrity, consistently following YMCA policies and ensuring children's safety, confidentiality, and well-being at all times.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

Frequent crouching, stooping, kneeling, and sitting on the floor to engage with children.

Ability to lift up to 30 pounds regularly.

Ability to move quickly to respond to emergencies.

May include evening or weekend shifts depending on facility schedule.

Exposure to a typical childcare setting with noise, high activity, and interaction with infants and children.

Frequent use of cleaning supplies and sanitizing materials.

Will use cleaning materials frequently.

This job description represents the major functions of the job but is not intended to be all inclusive. The incumbent is also responsible for performing other duties as necessary for Association success.

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