Children's Play Group Leader

YMCA of Southern Interior BC • Summerland, BC

4d • Onsite

About The Position

The Play Group Leader is responsible for planning and facilitating structured and unstructured play opportunities for elementary-aged children during YMCA play group programs. This role focuses on fostering creativity, physical activity, social development, and child wellbeing while ensuring a safe and welcoming environment for all participants. At the YMCA, we believe play is essential to healthy child development. The Play Group Leader helps children build creativity, confidence, problem-solving skills, and positive social connections through engaging play-based experiences. By creating a safe and welcoming environment, this role supports children and families while strengthening community connections and helping young people thrive.

Requirements

• Experience working with children aged 6-12 years.
• Knowledge of child development and play-based programming.
• Passion for supporting creativity, problem solving, physical literacy, and social development.
• Strong communication, relationship-building, and teamwork skills.
• Physical ability to actively participate in and supervise play activities.
• Child Protection Training
• Criminal Record Check
• YMCA Orientation

Nice To Haves

• Emergency First Aid with CPR Certification is preferred

Responsibilities

• Lead engaging play experiences that support children's physical, social, and emotional development.
• Facilitate structured and unstructured play opportunities for children aged 6-12.
• Foster creativity through open-ended activities, loose parts, and imaginative play.
• Encourage physical activity using a fun, play-based approach.
• Promote positive social interactions and support conflict resolution among participants.
• Ensure participant safety through active supervision and adherence to YMCA policies and procedures.
• Maintain program equipment, supplies, and cleanliness of program spaces.
• Collaborate with YMCA staff, volunteers, schools, and community partners.
• Track attendance and maintain accurate program records.
• Support positive participant and family experiences through effective communication and relationship building.

Benefits

• Make a meaningful impact in the lives of children and families.
• Be part of an organization dedicated to healthy communities and belonging.
• Work with a supportive team committed to youth development.
• Gain valuable experience in recreation, child and youth programming, and community engagement.

What This Job Offers

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