The YMCA of Metropolitan Los Angeles is not only the premiere non-profit in Los Angeles, it is also a great place to work, make a difference in your community and meet like-minded individuals. With twenty-six branches, three camps and over fifty child care sites, the LA Y is a highly-collaborative, rewarding and fun environment where you will discover your passion, grow your career and make an impact!

We believe in the four Core Values of Caring, Honesty, Respect and Responsibility and understand that our staff are our biggest asset! We strive to create high-performing, strong teams in each of our branches and are looking for passionate and enthusiastic staff who will help us to strengthen our impact, empower our community and deliver incredible programming!

Position Description

This position supports the work of the Y, a leading nonprofit committed to strengthening community through youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility. Under the direction of a fully qualified Teacher (per regulations), the Teacher Aide creates positive, nurturing relationships with children while building cooperative relationships with parents/caregivers. Promotes and supports the potential of all youth in programs and  facilitates peer-to-peer connections as part of the overall program experience. Provides direction for the children in the classroom, and implements program curriculum. Provides a quality experience to children and parents that focuses on building achievement and belonging in youth and relationships among youth and within families.

Qualifications

• Must be 18 years of age or older
• High school diploma or equivalent
• Previous experience working with preschool and/or school age children in a group setting (preferred). Ability to plan, organize and implement ageappropriate/developmentally appropriate program activities. Previous experience with diverse populations preferred. Ability to develop positive, authentic relationships with
  people from different backgrounds.
• Strong character values (respect, responsibility, honesty, caring); strong communication skills; emotional maturity
• Current approved EMSA First Aid; Adult, Infant and Child CPR Certifications (8 hours). Completion of child abuse prevention training prior to first day in program. Basic Water Safety certification for school-age summer programs.
• Current TB, influenza (limited exceptions), pertussis and measles vaccination and physical exam.

Responsibilities

1. Nurtures children through purposeful programming dedicated to building achievement and belonging in youth and relationships among youth and within families.
2. Maintains close visual supervision of a group of assigned children, following ratios based
   on specific program.
3. No child is left unsupervised or staff alone with a child at any time.
4. Help children manage behavior using a positive approach, including proactive strategies, redirection and using constructive discipline with natural and logical consequences.
5. Actively supports the YMCA is committed to inclusion and compliance with the American with Disabilities Act (ADA) where appropriate.
6. Assist with planning and implementing program curriculum and activities that are culturally relevant, developmentally appropriate, consistent with the YMCA values, and established guidelines.
7. Adheres to program standards including safety and cleanliness standards, maintains site and equipment, and maintains required program records in accordance with Title 22 regulations, funding terms and conditions, and YMCA expectations.
8. Makes ongoing, systematic observations and evaluations of each child. Communicates with supervisor regarding child's development.
9. Cultivates positive relationships and maintains effective communication with parents. Engages parents as volunteers and connects them to the YMCA.
10. Attends and participates in family events, program activities, staff meetings and trainings.
11. Follows YMCA policies and procedures, including those related to medical and disciplinary situations, child abuse prevention and emergencies. Follows reporting procedures and proactively responds to situations to ensure a safe environment for all involved.
12. Understands and complies with current federal, state, local regulations, and YMCA policies and procedures at all times.
13. Maintains positive relationship with parents, other YMCA team members and community partners. Models relationship-building skills (including Listen First) in all interactions.
14. Work directly with qualified teacher; never alone with a group of children (with the exception of taking children to and from the restroom).