Youth Development Professional (After School) - TK & Kinder - Dayton Elementary
About The Position
As a Youth Development Professional, you’ll create a nurturing, playful, and engaging after-school environment where young children can explore, grow, and build confidence. Through hands-on activities, guided play, and positive reinforcement, you’ll support their early learning, social-emotional development, and foundational skills in a way that feels fun and exciting. This role directly contributes to Boys & Girls Clubs of San Leandro by fostering a safe and enriching space that promotes curiosity, creativity, and positive relationships. What makes this role unique is the opportunity to gain hands-on experience in early childhood development, work with a diverse and supportive team, and make a lasting impact during one of the most critical stages of a child’s growth.
Requirements
- No prior experience working with youth required—this is an entry-level role.
- Must be at least 18 years of age to be eligible for this position.
- Ability to work in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.
- High emotional intelligence and integrity.
- Ability to connect authentically with a diverse group of youth.
- Ability to independently supervise a group of youth.
- Patience and the ability to work under pressure in emotionally charged situations.
- High school diploma + 48 college semester units (˜ 2 years college), OR
- High school diploma + an Associate’s (or higher) degree, OR
- High school diploma + a passing score on the district’s Paraeducator/Paraprofessional Exam.
- Negative TB screen required.
Nice To Haves
- Multi-conversational language skills are a huge plus (Spanish, Mandarin, Cantonese, Vietnamese, Tagalog).
- Experience, education, or coursework in Childhood Development, Education, or related fields.
- Prior experience working in youth programs, education, or nonprofit settings.
Responsibilities
- Maintain constant supervision and create a secure, nurturing environment where young children feel safe, comforted, and supported as they explore and grow.
- Lead interactive, play-based learning experiences that encourage language development, sensory exploration, motor skills, and social-emotional growth.
- Deliver hands-on, developmentally appropriate activities that build early literacy, math concepts, problem-solving skills, and self-regulation, adapting based on individual needs and interests.
- Establish predictable routines, model positive behavior, and use gentle, proactive strategies to guide social skills, emotional expression, and conflict resolution.
- Foster trust and attachment by offering warmth, encouragement, and individualized attention that supports children’s emotional security and confidence.
- Oversee smooth transitions between activities, snack time, rest periods, toileting needs, and play, ensuring a structured yet flexible routine that supports young children’s development.
- Work closely with colleagues to share observations, adjust strategies, and create a cohesive, developmentally supportive environment.
- Step in to assist with various needs, including comforting children, modifying activities, or adjusting the day’s structure to ensure a positive and enriching experience.
Stand Out From the Crowd
Upload your resume and get instant feedback on how well it matches this job.
What This Job Offers
Job Type
Part-time
Career Level
Entry Level
Education Level
High school or GED
