Activity Specialist: Fitness & Nutrition (Staten Island South Shore YMCA)

About the role

The Activity Specialist will play a critical role in providing academic enhancement and enrichment in the Y Afterschool program, including Holiday Camps. The Activity Specialist will be responsible for providing a safe and positive environment for school-age children and for providing opportunities for learning, interaction, and academic or personal growth. Specifically, the Activity Specialist will prepare and deliver age-appropriate Fitness & Nutrition instruction for grades K-5 in the Y Afterschool program.

Responsibilities

• Create structured, detailed, and engaging daily or weekly lesson plans that align with program goals and the HealthyNYC initiative. Each plan should include: Clear, Measurable Objectives; Detailed Procedures (including introductions/"hooks", main activities, and closures/wrap-ups); Time Management; Required Materials/Equipment; Safety Considerations; Differentiation/Modifications; Assessment Methods.
• Work with participants throughout the program to prepare them for an end-of-cycle showcase where they will present their accomplishments. Guide participants in selecting and finishing pieces for presentation, and assist with the organization and setup of the event.
• Plan, organize, and supervise a variety of physical activities based on your lesson plans. These may include, but are not limited to: Gym/physical education sessions; Organized sports/sports practice; Dance and martial arts instruction; Fun fitness games; Other structured and supervised recreational physical exercises.
• Lead educational activities, such as cooking demonstrations or workshops, that are designed to teach participants the fundamentals of healthy eating and living.
• Promote an inclusive, welcoming, and respectful environment that embraces the diversity of all participants.
• Create and maintain a strength-based, youth-focused atmosphere that is consistent and sensitive to the needs of participants with learning, emotional, or behavioral differences.
• Ensure the health, safety, and well-being of participants in the program by providing appropriate supervision at all times.
• Work cooperatively with Afterschool Group Leaders, professional staff, teachers, other programs, and school staff.
• Adhere to all Office of Children and Family Services (OCFS), Department of Health (DOH), YMCA of Greater New York, school partner, and funder standards, expectations, and regulations.
• Maintain accurate program documentation (sign-in/out forms, behavior reports, and incident reports, as appropriate).
• Serve as a positive role model for participants.
• Understand and communicate the YMCA's core values and the goals of the Y Afterschool Program to participants and caregivers.
• Develop and maintain positive relationships with parents/guardians and caregivers through regular communication about their child's strengths and areas for growth.
• Actively participate in training sessions, designated meetings, and special events.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or equivalent required.
• College credits and formal education in a related field preferred.
• Preference is given to individuals who are already experts within their field or college/graduate students working towards such specialization.
• Minimum of two (2) years of experience in the specific discipline of fitness and nutrition.
• Direct experience working with children under the age of 13.
• Coaching certification, if applicable.
• Content expert in the designated subject matter.
• General knowledge of Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.
• Strong interpersonal skills, leadership qualities, and comfortable working with diverse youth and adults.

Benefits

• Retirement benefits
• Medical
• Paid time off
• Free YMCA membership

Benefit eligibility is determined by an individual's employment status (i.e., full-time or part-time), tenure, and/or the number of hours scheduled to work.