Childwatch Lead Counselor- Fort Bend

About the Role

The Childwatch Site Lead is responsible for creating a safe, engaging, and inclusive environment for children while their parents/guardians participate in YMCA activities. This position requires a dedicated and responsible youth development professional committed to providing high-quality care in the Childwatch program. The Site Lead will teach values, ensure safety, and facilitate structured play and educational activities for children, in line with youth development principles and YMCA policies.

Responsibilities

• Site Management: Serve as the designated lead, ensuring compliance with YMCA of Greater Houston and Youth Development standards. Oversee daily operations, maintain cleanliness and organization, and set up/break down activity centers.
• Supervision and Safety: Monitor activities to ensure safe, age-appropriate behavior and adherence to YMCA policies. Provide for children’s physical needs, administer first aid/CPR, and maintain accurate records.
• Behavior Management: Implement positive behavior techniques, address emotional needs, and communicate observations to staff.
• Program & Policy Compliance: Conduct assessments, follow organizational policies, and report concerns to the Program Director.
• Program Planning and Implementation: Oversee age-appropriate activities, encourage positive social interactions, and adapt activities to meet diverse needs.
• Relationship Building: Maintain positive relations with children, parents/guardians, and staff. Attend staff meetings and trainings.
• Parent and Community Engagement: Communicate with parents/guardians, address inquiries, and follow health and safety protocols.
• Administrative Duties: Manage check-in/out processes, maintain records, and ensure communication devices are functional.
• Program Growth and Retention: Assist with retention plans to ensure participant engagement and satisfaction.
• Program Quality: Plan and implement lesson/activity plans adhering to YMCA standards.
• Child Abuse Prevention: Report suspicious behaviors, follow mandated reporting requirements, and adhere to boundary policies.

Qualifications

• At least 21 years of age.
• High school diploma or GED.
• At least 1 year of experience working with youth (preferred).
• Strong awareness of child safety and emergency response.
• CPR, First Aid, AED, and Child Abuse prevention certifications required.
• Ability to engage children positively and plan age-appropriate activities.
• Experience with diverse populations and supervising others (preferred).
• Current tuberculosis examination and health department requirements.
• Pass local/state background and FBI fingerprinting checks.

Skills

• Communication: Effective in one-on-one and small group situations.
• Mathematical Skills: Basic arithmetic and money handling.
• Reasoning Ability: Apply common sense to carry out instructions.
• Physical Demands: Light to moderate lifting, prolonged standing, and outdoor activities.

Work Environment

Primarily indoor with some outdoor exposure. Moderate noise level. Exposure to cleaning supplies, spills, and physical activities.

Schedule

Part-time, typically seven days a week. Shifts include morning (8 am – 1 pm), afternoon (11 am – 4 pm), and evening (4 pm – 8 pm). Availability for family nights, activities, meetings, and trainings required.

Travel

Primarily to assigned Childwatch location with occasional travel to other sites.