This is a Part time position 15-17 hours per week and based in Belchertown MA Department: Early ChildhoodTitle: CFCE SpecialistFLSA Status: Non-ExemptReports to: CFCE CoordinatorBase Hours: part time, evening and weekend, as neededHourly Rate: $22.00 per hourPurpose: The CFCE Specialist’s primary responsibility is to provide developmentally appropriate, early literacy-rich experiences, including parent/child playgroups for young children (ages 0-5); to strengthen and foster positive relationships between parents and their children; and to provide community outreach, resources and information on early learning and development, parenting and social resources and support for parents and families. The Specialist will lead, coordinate and manage all aspects of the program, assuring effective and efficient delivery of services and compliance with best professional standards and practices and complete implementation of funding source expectations. Essential Functions:Provide drop in parent/child playgroups weekly and specialized early childhood events Register and review policies with families using the center for the first timeEstablish rapport with each family and display empathy and understanding of others’ perspectives, needs, concerns and cultureProvide appropriate resources and support to meet each family’s individual needsPlan developmentally appropriate activitiesGreet and welcome families to the center or off-site eventCollect signatures of all families participating and other data required Communicate with families in a positive, non-judgmental mannerIntegrate literacy development during free play, snack and circle time when appropriateModel age-appropriate interactions with children including redirecting children’s behavior as needed and providing positive role-modeling to families regarding behavior managementProvide outreach to ensure that the community and schools have information about the centerSupport children and families through transitions including kindergarten transitionsProvide welcome baby visits Conduct and assist families with ASQ and upload ASQ results onto online systemProvide families with community resources and warm referralsCollect necessary data to complete monthly reporting requirements and submit reports in a timely and accurate fashionCollect and maintain records of playgroups, families and services providedProvide opportunities for families to learn and explore early learning and child development strategies that would enhance a child’s growth and kindergarten readiness skillsCoordinate with CES employees who provide special programming and child care Other Duties and ResponsibilitiesMaintain confidentiality at all times regarding information that families/caregivers may shareInform CFCE Coordinator or Early Childhood Director of any significant issues or concerns that may ariseOversee fundraisingOversee the regular publication of a newsletter/email outreach/social mediaAttend and actively participate in staff, departmental, and council meetingsMaintain a safe and clean environment and positive working alliance with the property owner of the building and librariesOther duties as assigned by the CFCE Coordinator or EC DirectorMinimum QualificationsAssociates Degree in Early Childhood Education, or a related field.Minimum of 2 years experience in a position working with parents and young childrenBasic knowledge of child development, family dynamics and pre/postpartum issues.Able to work as a team with other staffAble to work with children, parents, caregivers, schools and community resourcesComputer skills using Google documents, calendars and spreadsheetsPhysical Demands: Requires the ability to lead 30 minute to 2 hour groups and be able to move, sing, interact, play, lead and follow young children and lift 40 pounds.Work ConditionsRequires working a flexible schedule to include night meetings and weekend eventsCan handle interruptions and maintain productivityAbility to effectively communicate with a broad spectrum of individuals, collaborate with various community groups, mediate conflicts and involve a diverse group of individuals in programming are essentialSkilled in working independently and collaborativelyAbility to track and manage own hours effectively Ability to travel in order to attend required meetingsDates of service: 38 weeks during the school year with reduced programming in July and August. Non-programming periods align with school district holiday/vacation calendars with possible flexibility to extend services in June.