Before & After School Care Instructor

Crossroads YMCA•Hammond, IN

About The Position

The Before & After School Care Instructor helps elementary-aged children have safe, positive, and engaging experiences before and after school. The role involves leading activities, assisting with homework, encouraging positive social interactions, building relationships with children and families, and maintaining a safe and welcoming environment. It is an active position that requires patience, flexibility, sound judgment, and consistent attention to children’s safety. Instructors work indoors and outdoors, adapt to changing schedules and conditions, and balance enjoyable activities with program expectations and safety standards.

Requirements

Must be at least 16 years of age.
Ability to communicate effectively with children, parents, coworkers, and school staff.
Ability to respond appropriately in emergency situations.
Willingness to complete required orientation, safety, CPR/First Aid, and ongoing training within established timeframes.
Ability to actively participate in children's activities, including standing, walking, bending, kneeling, and occasional running.
Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds.
Ability to supervise children indoors and outdoors, including in varying weather conditions.
Ability to observe, hear, and communicate effectively in a busy childcare environment.
Enjoy working with elementary-aged children, maintain a positive attitude, stay calm and patient in busy or unexpected situations, and manage multiple priorities while maintaining children's safety.

Nice To Haves

Previous experience working with children is preferred.

Responsibilities

Supervise and engage groups of school-age children before and after school.
Plan and lead age-appropriate games, crafts, STEM activities, outdoor play, and enrichment experiences.
Assist children with homework and encourage positive social interactions.
Build positive relationships with children, families, school staff, and coworkers.
Maintain a safe, clean, and welcoming environment while following program policies and licensing requirements.
Ensure children are signed in and out properly and verify authorized individuals during pick-up.
Observe children's behavior, encourage positive choices, and address conflicts respectfully.
Maintain attendance, incident, and other required program documentation.
Participate in staff meetings, required training, and professional development.
Remain attentive and engaged throughout the shift and adapt when schedules, weather, or activities change.