
Child Watch Associate
Job Description
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.
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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
Pay Range: $15 per hour