After-School Program Assistant

YMCA of Central Northern Westchester • Cortlandt Manor, NY

2d • Onsite

About The Position

The YMCA of Central and Northern Westchester is a charitable, not-for-profit organization dedicated to strengthening communities throughout Putnam and Westchester counties through youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility. We are seeking a caring, dependable, and enthusiastic After-School Program Assistant to join our team and help provide a safe, nurturing, and engaging environment for preschool-aged children. This is a part-time, 10-month position that follows the local school district calendar. The After-School Program Assistant works alongside the UPK teaching team to support children's social, emotional, physical, and developmental needs during after-school hours.

Requirements

• Must be at least 18 years of age.
• Strong communication, interpersonal, and customer service skills.
• Ability to work effectively as part of a team.
• Must demonstrate patience, maturity, dependability, and a genuine interest in working with young children.
• Ability to maintain a safe, positive, and supportive environment.
• Must be able to follow directions, communicate effectively, and respond appropriately to children's needs.

Nice To Haves

• Previous experience working with young children is preferred.
• Coursework or a degree in Early Childhood Education, Child Development, or a related field is preferred.
• Child Development Associate (CDA) Credential in Preschool is preferred.
• Knowledge of age-appropriate activities and developmental needs of children ages 3–5 is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Assist the UPK teaching team with daily after-school activities, including arts and crafts, games, music, movement, outdoor play, and other age-appropriate experiences.
• Provide a safe, nurturing, inclusive, and engaging environment for all children.
• Actively supervise children at all times and maintain required child-to-staff ratios.
• Support daily classroom routines, transitions, snack time, rest periods, and activities.
• Encourage positive social interactions and support children's social-emotional development.
• Build positive and professional relationships with children, families, teachers, and YMCA staff.
• Serve as a positive role model by demonstrating the YMCA's core values of Caring, Honesty, Respect, and Responsibility.
• Assist with classroom organization, cleaning, sanitizing, and preparation of materials.
• Help create an organized and welcoming classroom environment.
• Follow all YMCA policies, procedures, and applicable childcare regulations, including requirements related to child supervision, health and safety, emergency procedures, and child abuse prevention.
• Communicate questions or concerns regarding children, families, or the program to the UPK Teacher or Program Director.
• Maintain confidentiality and professionalism when working with children and families.
• Participate in required YMCA training, staff meetings, and professional development.
• Perform other duties as assigned by the Supervisor.

Benefits

• Part-time, 10-month position following the local school district calendar
• Competitive pay of $17.00–$19.00 per hour, based on experience and qualifications
• Professional development and ongoing training opportunities
• Hands-on experience in early childhood education
• Supportive and collaborative work environment
• Opportunity to work in a school-based preschool program
• Potential opportunities for additional hours based on program needs
• Opportunity to grow within the YMCA and gain valuable experience in early childhood and youth programming

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Part-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: No Education Listed