Houseparent (Child Care Specialist)
About The Position
Family Haven is a nonprofit social services organization that provides family support programs in Orem and Lehi, Utah. Its Crisis Respite Nursery offers a safe, home-like environment for children from newborn through age 11 whose families may be experiencing difficult or stressful circumstances. The Houseparent provides day-to-day childcare and helps children feel safe, comfortable, and cared for while their parents address those circumstances. The role involves caring for children at a range of developmental stages, including children who may be worried, upset, or overwhelmed. Specialized trauma training is not required; Family Haven provides training and support. The position is suited to someone who is patient, dependable, attentive, and able to offer children consistent, kind care. The schedule sought is Monday through Friday, 1 p.m. to 6 p.m.
Requirements
- Enjoy working with children and be comfortable caring for children from newborn through age 11.
- At least 6 months of experience working with children, professionally or personally.
- Be patient, kind, and able to remain calm when a child is upset, frustrated, or having a difficult day.
- Respond to challenging behavior with patience and compassion, recognizing that children may not be able to explain what they are feeling.
- Be dependable and consistent.
- Be comfortable handling practical childcare duties, including meals, diaper changes, bathing, cleaning, and organizing the nursery.
- Interact professionally and respectfully with parents, volunteers, and Family Haven staff.
- Follow established safety procedures and recognize when to ask for help or involve another staff member.
- Be willing to learn about trauma-informed childcare, child safety, and Family Haven policies and procedures.
- Be at least 18 years old.
- Pass a criminal background check administered by Family Haven.
- Have CPR/First Aid certification and a Food Handlers Permit; Family Haven will help obtain these if needed.
Responsibilities
- Provide attentive, nurturing care and supervision for children from newborn through age 11.
- Create a calm, safe, and home-like environment where children can relax and be themselves.
- Engage children in age-appropriate play, activities, reading, and other positive experiences.
- Prepare and serve meals and snacks, and assist children with eating as needed.
- Help with children's basic personal care, including diapering, toileting, bathing, and hygiene.
- Respond to children's needs and behaviors with patience, compassion, and appropriate boundaries.
- Serve as a positive and healthy adult role model for children.
- Maintain a clean, safe, and organized nursery, including basic cleaning and tidying.
- Supervise and provide direction to volunteers assisting in the nursery.
- Complete basic records and documentation related to children's care.
- Communicate with Family Haven staff about children's needs, behaviors, or concerns.
- Follow Family Haven policies and procedures related to child safety, confidentiality, supervision, and mandated reporting.
Benefits
- Paid holiday closures for half-time employees.
- Paid Time Off (PTO) accrual for half-time employees.
- Supportive, mission-driven team environment with training and support.
- Meaningful work helping children and families in the community.
- Ability to bring one child to work.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Part-time
Career Level
Entry Level
Education Level
No Education Listed
