What are the responsibilities and job description for the Behavioral Consultant - FAIRFIELD YMCA position at CENTRAL CONNECTICUT COAST YOUNG MENS CHRISTIAN ASSOCIATION INC?
This position supports the mission and work of the Y, a leading nonprofit, charitable organization. The Behavioral Consultant promotes inclusion and strengthens staff capacity by providing consultation, coaching, and practical strategies to support children with behavioral needs and developmental differences in YMCA day camp and child care programs. This role partners with program leaders, frontline staff, and families to develop individualized supports, improve participation and peer interactions, and respond effectively to dysregulation through proactive planning and in-the-moment de-escalation.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:
- Model and reinforce the YMCA core values of caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility in all interactions with children, families, staff, and volunteers.
- Provide consultation and on-site support to day camp and child care teams to strengthen inclusive practices and address behavioral challenges in a developmentally appropriate way.
- Observe children in program settings to identify strengths, triggers, and support needs; recommend practical strategies that fit the program environment and staffing model.
- Develop, implement, and adjust individualized behavior support plans and accommodations for children requiring additional assistance, in partnership with program leadership and families.
- Provide direct intervention as needed, including de-escalation, emotional regulation supports, and guidance to staff during high-impact situations to maintain safety and dignity for all participants.
- Coach and train staff in positive behavior management, trauma-informed approaches, and inclusion strategies; provide feedback, modeling, and follow-up to support consistent implementation.
- Facilitate communication with parents/guardians to align strategies across home and program settings; support collaborative problem-solving and clear expectations.
- Maintain timely documentation of behavioral incidents, supports provided, and progress notes, consistent with YMCA expectations and applicable state/local requirements.
- Attend staff meetings, case check-ins, and required trainings; stay current on best practices related to child development, inclusion, and behavioral supports.
- Other duties as assigned in support of program safety, inclusion, and quality.