Location: Lakeland Hills Family YMCA, Mountain Lakes, NJ
Organization: YMCA
Job Type: Part-Time
Reports To: Childcare Director / Head Teacher

Job Summary

The YMCA is seeking a caring and energetic Childcare Support Staff member to assist in our preschool childcare program. Under the guidance of the Childcare Director and Head Teacher, this role supports daily classroom activities, helps maintain a safe and engaging environment, and builds positive relationships with children and families.

This position plays an important role in helping children grow socially, emotionally, and developmentally while ensuring their health and safety throughout the day.

Key Responsibilities

Child Supervision & Safety

• Monitor and ensure the health and safety of all children in the program
• Administer minor first aid when necessary
• Follow emergency medical procedures and complete incident/accident report
• Verify that children are released only to authorized individuals

Classroom & Program Support

• Assist teachers with implementing the daily curriculum and activity schedule
• Support age-appropriate activities that promote learning and development
• Help manage classroom transitions and daily routines
• Maintain organized learning spaces and assist with classroom setup and cleanup

Child Development & Engagement

• Build positive relationships with children through encouragement and guidance
• Promote sharing, respect, and positive social behavior
• Support children in expressing and managing emotions
• Encourage participation and independent thinking

Parent Communication

• Build positive relationships with parents and caregivers
• Share appropriate updates regarding children's activities
• Report incidents or concerns to the Director or Head Teacher before discussing with parents

Program & Facility Support

• Assist with classroom organization and maintenance
• Complete daily, weekly, and monthly cleaning task
• Participate in at least 12 hours of professional development training annually
• Support YMCA organization and initiatives.

• Strong interest in early childhood development
• Minimum 1 year of experience working with children
• Excellent communication and teamwork skills
• Ability to work cooperatively with staff and volunteers
• Must pass a criminal background check

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand, walk, bend, kneel, crouch, and reach throughout the day
• Ability to lift and/or move up to 50 pounds
• Ability to supervise active children in indoor and outdoor environments
• Vision abilities including close, distance, peripheral vision, and depth perception

What Success Looks Like

• Children feel safe, supported, and engaged
• Parents are confident and satisfied with the program
• The childcare environment is organized, positive, and developmentally enriching

Why Work at the Y?

• Free membership: Includes Brand New State of the Art Health and Fitness Center, Group Fitness classes including Pilates, cycling, yoga and many more.
• Member discounts
• Retirement Fund
• Paid Sick Time
• Holidays Off
• The opportunity to make a meaningful difference in the community
• An organization that provides financial assistance to those in need
• A workplace that prioritizes promoting from within for higher-level positions

Salary : $16 - $17