Kids Play Team Lead (Southwest)

**Why Your Role Matters** As the Kids Play Lead, you will play a pivotal role in fostering a nurturing and dynamic environment that supports children's holistic development. By leading a dedicated team, you will design and implement engaging curriculum plans aligned with YMCA values, promoting literacy, numeracy, social skills, and physical fitness. Your leadership will ensure a secure and welcoming space where children can thrive emotionally, socially, and physically. By building strong relationships with families and maintaining high standards of safety and organization, you will create a positive experience for all. **We are seeking candidates with flexible weekday availability, particularly during early morning and afternoon hours.** **How You Will Make an Impact** - Lead and support a team of Kids Play Team Members in delivering enriching activities and implementing a curriculum that fosters children’s social, physical, spiritual, and cognitive development. - Design thematic weekly and monthly curriculum plans and create age-appropriate activities that promote literacy, numeracy, social skills, physical fitness, and creative exploration. - Incorporate educational best practices and current trends to ensure a dynamic, engaging learning environment. - Welcome children and families warmly, building strong relationships and ensuring a positive, inclusive experience. - Facilitate activities that spark curiosity, problem-solving, cooperation, and imaginative play. - Model respectful, nurturing interactions that support children’s emotional well-being and social growth. - Ensure the safety and welfare of all children, consistently upholding YMCA rules, policies, and standards. - Communicate effectively with parents about their child’s participation, progress, and daily experiences. - Oversee cleanliness and organization of childcare spaces, maintaining a safe and inviting environment. - Mentor and train new team members, fostering collaboration and a supportive team culture. - Participate in staff meetings and contribute to continuous program improvement. - Lead by example in promoting the YMCA’s mission, vision, values, and serve as an ambassador of the organization’s culture and impact. - Complete other duties as assigned to support the success of the programs. **What You Bring to the Y** - Minimum age requirement of 18 years. - Fluency in Spanish/English preferred (not required). - Previous experience in a childcare setting, with demonstrated leadership capabilities. - Proficiency in leading activities and creating engaging experiences for children aged 8 weeks (about 2 months) to 12 years. - Current certifications in First Aid, CPR/AED, and Emergency Oxygen are preferred. - Ability to remain calm and effective in high-pressure situations, with excellent problem-solving skills. - Commitment to YMCA values and promoting a culture of inclusion and community. - Growth Mindset: Learn and improve to better serve members and the mission. - Team Player: Work collaboratively with others and support a positive team environment. - Communicates Effectively: Listen actively and communicate clearly with members and peers. - Customer Focused: Anticipates needs and ensures quality, member-centered service. - Fosters Belonging: Ensure everyone feels welcomed, respected, and included. **Physical Requirement** While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to sit, stand, walk, bend, talk, and occasionally lift and/or move items, including equipment, furniture, and/or children. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.