Child Watch Aide

YMCA of the Black Hills•Box Elder, SD

6d•Onsite

About The Position

The YMCA of the Black Hills is seeking caring, energetic, and dependable Child Watch Aides for its Early Learning team at the Liberty Center YMCA in Box Elder. The role involves engaging children through play, activities, and age-appropriate programming while supporting a safe, nurturing, and inclusive environment for children and families. Experience working with children is preferred, but training may be provided to a suitable candidate who brings enthusiasm, patience, and a positive attitude. Child Watch Aides provide attentive care and active supervision, support activities directed by lead teachers, build positive relationships with children and families, and help create a friendly and supportive member experience. They follow YMCA childcare policies and safety standards, assist with opening and closing as assigned, apply emergency and risk management procedures, maintain a clean and organized space, and complete required training and continuing education. Candidates must be at least 18 years old, meet South Dakota childcare licensing requirements, and pass a background check. A high school diploma or equivalent is required, or the candidate must be actively pursuing an equivalent. CPR/AED and First Aid certification, as well as YMCA-required training, must be completed within 60 days of hire.

Requirements

Must be at least 18 years old.
High school diploma or equivalent required, or actively pursuing an equivalent.
Must meet South Dakota childcare licensing requirements.
CPR/AED and First Aid certification required within 60 days of hire.
Must complete YMCA-required trainings within 60 days of hire.
Must be able to pass a background check.
Ability to actively engage with children throughout the day, including sitting on the floor, bending, lifting, and moving frequently.
Ability to lift at least 25 pounds regularly.
Dependable and reliable, with patience and a positive attitude.
Enjoy working with children and families.
Demonstrate YMCA core values of caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility.
Work well as part of a supportive team environment.

Nice To Haves

Previous experience working with children.
Understanding of child growth and development.

Responsibilities

Provide attentive care and active supervision for children in the program.
Interact with children through games, activities, play, and positive encouragement.
Support age-appropriate activities and programming directed by lead teachers.
Foster a welcoming, safe, and inclusive environment for all children.
Build positive relationships with children and families.
Communicate professionally and positively with YMCA families.
Help address member concerns and communicate important information to supervisors.
Create a friendly and supportive experience for all participants.
Follow YMCA childcare policies, procedures, and safety standards.
Assist with opening and closing responsibilities as assigned.
Apply YMCA emergency and risk management procedures appropriately.
Maintain a clean, organized, and safe childcare environment.
Complete required trainings and continuing education requirements.