Preschool Afterschool Counselor (1-year olds)

Green Ivy Schools•New York, NY

About The Position

The After School Counselor supports the 1s and preschool programs by providing a warm, nurturing, and structured environment for young learners during afternoon programming. The role uses a hands-on approach to meet children’s individual needs, lead age-appropriate activities, and foster a calm, joyful atmosphere where each child feels safe and supported. The counselor supervises a small group of children, guides activities such as sensory play, music, and movement, and supports routines and transitions, including handwashing, toileting, and diapering. The role also includes maintaining an organized classroom, sharing updates and photos with families through the Brightwheel app, supporting children’s emotional and developmental needs, collaborating with classroom teachers and the Head of School, and overseeing dismissal and handoffs to caregivers. The schedule is Monday through Friday, 2:30–6:00 PM. Compensation is $20 per hour.

Requirements

At least 1 year of experience working with infants and toddlers in a group setting, such as a classroom, camp, or enrichment class.
Must be authorized to work in the United States.
Proactive and confident with young children.
Attentive to children’s needs and able to work with minimal direction.
Patient, flexible, and comfortable managing separation emotions.
Responsible, punctual, and communicative with colleagues and families.

Nice To Haves

Mandated Reporter certification, First Aid certification, CPR certification, and MAT training are preferred.
Fluency in Spanish or Mandarin, or ability to teach in Spanish or Mandarin.
Familiarity with the Montessori approach.

Responsibilities

Lead and supervise a small group of children during after-school programming.
Maintain a safe, engaging, nurturing environment appropriate to the age group.
Prepare and guide simple activities, including sensory play, music, and movement.
Help children with transitions such as handwashing, toileting, and diapering when applicable.
Maintain a clean, organized classroom and tidy materials.
Use the Brightwheel app to share updates and photos with families.
Support children’s emotional needs through gentle language and modeling.
Collaborate with classroom teachers and the Head of School as needed.
Oversee dismissal and ensure a smooth handoff to caregivers.
Assist with diapering and communicate toileting needs clearly.
Create a soothing, predictable routine for toddlers who may be new to separation.
Provide extra support and redirection for emerging language and motor skills.