What are the responsibilities and job description for the Summer Camp Counselor position at Playful Minds?
Required education and experience:
- At least four weeks experience as a junior counselor, have participated in structured group camping, OR
- Have at least four weeks experience in a supervisory role with children; AND
- Satisfactorily completion of a camp counselor orientation and training program and CDC online “HeadsUp” training, or equivalent.
- Minimum 16 years of age.
- 3 years older than children assigned to.
- Evidence of mandatory vaccinations or immunity to infectious diseases (including TB).
- Firstaid and CPR certifications.
- Annual “HeadsUp training.
- All staff serve as mandated reporters as stipulated under state laws governing center locations.
- All staff ensure all needs of children are met.
- Prepare and implement weekly projects and programs.
- Introduce and engage children to a variety of experiences and creative activities.
- Supervise the appropriate use of materials and supplies.
- Ensure the group area and facility is clean and safe, well organized supplies and equipment that are stored each day.
- Immediately report to Camp Director defective, unsafe equipment and toys, or any other dangerous situation. Remove unsafe items from camper use.
- Complete all required paperwork for each child in the group as required by DPH and Playful Minds policies.
- Assists with setup and cleaning for snack and meal times, assist/monitor children during snack and meal times.
- Assist children to and from transportation.
- Report daily attendance, always aware of the location of each child in the group, conduct regular head counts, maintain staff to camper ratios, never leave children unsupervised.
- Remain with campers while at pool, assist lifeguard with supervision, conduct regular head counts, and always know where child is.
- Always are of allergies and chronic conditions of all campers in the group.
- Report and document all incidents that are required by DPH and Playful Minds and use of required forms.
- Apply sunscreen and insect repellent to campers at required intervals.
- Parents
- Communicate with parents about their child’s daily camp experienced.
- Cooperate with the Camp Director and other staff in those activities involving the child assigned and the whole camp.
- Greet and treat parents, children, and staff with kindness and respect.
- Arrives to the camp location as scheduled, and remains on alert.
- Ensure paperwork is completed and up to date.
- Daily care of camp area(s) and equipment used, and report items needing repair or replacement.
- Perform duties as assigned by the Camp Director.
- Responds effectively to emergency situations.
- Quickly and effectively problem solve complex situations.
- Strong verbal and written communication skills.
- Cultivate and maintain an atmosphere of teamwork.
- Genuine enjoyment when working with children.
- Comfortably engage with students, staff, and parents.
- Easily and compassionately address student’s needs and engage/counsel parents.
- Contribute to program growth.
- Maintain sound working relationships with staff.
- Adhere to Playful Minds policies given verbally or in writing, such as Employee Handbook, Confidentiality Policy, Safety Procedures, etc.
- Cooperate with the Camp Director and other staff in activities involving the whole program.
- Great and treat children, parents, and staff with kindness and respect.
- Engage with children and staff to maintain positive relationships.
- Be professional at all times.
- Refrain from gossip.