Afterschool Childcare Counselor | Inspire, Lead & Make Every Afternoon Count
Do you love working with kids? Are you passionate about education, mentorship, and making a difference every day? Join the YMCA as an Afterschool Childcare Counselor and turn your enthusiasm into a rewarding career where every afternoon is an opportunity to inspire, encourage, and help children thrive.
At the YMCA, we're committed to strengthening communities through youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility. As an Afterschool Childcare Counselor, you'll help create a safe, engaging, and supportive environment where children can learn, build confidence, develop friendships, and discover new interests—all while making a lasting impact on the families in your community.
What You'll Be Doing
Supervise and actively engage a group of children in the Afterschool Childcare Program.
Lead fun, educational, and age-appropriate activities that reflect YMCA values and promote child development.
Create a welcoming, inclusive, and culturally responsive environment for every child.
Maintain program safety, cleanliness, and organization at all times.
Follow YMCA policies and procedures related to health, safety, behavior management, emergencies, and child abuse prevention.
Build positive relationships with children, families, coworkers, and school staff.
Attend required staff meetings, trainings, and professional development opportunities.
Support all-day camps during select school closures, with shifts scheduled between 7:00 AM and 6:00 PM.
Perform additional duties as assigned by your supervisor.
Program Hours:
Why This Job Is a Great Fit
Every day is different at the YMCA. Whether you're helping with homework, leading games, encouraging creativity, or simply being a positive role model, your work has a direct impact on children and families in your community. This role is an excellent opportunity for individuals pursuing careers in education, recreation, youth development, social work, or childcare—or anyone who enjoys helping children succeed.
Perks & Benefits
Free YMCA membership for you and eligible household members
50% discounts on many YMCA programs, including swim lessons, youth sports, childcare, camps, and more
Flexible scheduling to help balance work, school, and life
Opportunities for professional growth and advancement within the YMCA
Work for a mission-driven organization that invests in its employees and the community
What We're Looking For
Required Qualifications:
Must be at least 18 years old.
High school diploma or equivalent required.
College coursework in education, recreation, physical education, child development, or a related field is preferred.
Previous experience in childcare, education, recreation, teaching, or youth programming is preferred.
Ability to build positive relationships with children, families, and coworkers.
Strong communication, teamwork, and leadership skills.
Passion for creating positive experiences for children.
Required Certifications & Screenings:
Successful completion of a background check and Child Abuse & Neglect screening.
Obtain and maintain First Aid, CPR, and AED certification prior to the start date through YMCA-approved providers.
Complete all required online training modules before employment and annually thereafter.
Expectations
Team members who work directly with children are expected to:
Maintain professional boundaries with children and teens.
Complete annual abuse risk management training.
Follow YMCA supervision procedures and safety protocols.
Report suspicious or inappropriate behavior and policy violations immediately.
Comply with all mandated child abuse reporting requirements.
Demonstrate the YMCA's core values of Caring, Honesty, Respect, and Responsibility in every interaction.
What Success Looks Like
Successful Afterschool Childcare Counselors create an environment where children feel safe, included, encouraged, and excited to participate each day. They communicate effectively with families, collaborate with teammates, lead engaging activities, maintain a safe and organized program, and serve as positive role models who help children build confidence and character.
More Than Just a Job
Working at the YMCA is more than a part-time job—it's an opportunity to invest in the next generation while growing your own leadership skills. Join a team that believes in supporting its employees, strengthening communities, and making a meaningful difference every day.
Apply Today
Ready to inspire young minds and make every afternoon count? Apply today and become part of a team that's dedicated to helping children, families, and communities thrive.
