Counselor I

About the role

Our mission and core values are brought to life through our culture. At the YMCA of South Hampton Roads, we strive to live our cause of strengthening communities with purpose and intentionality every day. We are welcoming: we are open to all and create spaces where people can belong and become. We are genuine: we value people and embrace individuality. We are hopeful: we believe in the potential of people to grow, lead and become catalysts for change. We are nurturing: we support individuals throughout their journey to reach their full potential. We are determined: above all else, we are on a relentless quest to make our community stronger, beginning with our people. Our culture is not a People & Culture initiative; it is how we lead, serve, develop talent, make decisions and deliver on the YMCA's mission.

As a Counselor I you will play a vital role in supporting the Counselor II in providing a nurturing and stimulating learning environment for young children. Your enthusiasm, dedication, and passion for early childhood education will contribute to the success of our preschool program.

Responsibilities

• Ensure the safety and well-being of children at all times, actively supervising activities, meals, and transitions.
• Implement and enforce safety protocols and emergency procedures.
• Assist Program Leaders in preparing and implementing developmentally appropriate curriculum and activities that promote learning and development across all domains: cognitive, social-emotional, physical, and language.
• Engage children in meaningful play experiences, encouraging exploration, creativity, and critical thinking.
• Foster positive relationships and provide individualized attention and support to meet the needs of each child.
• Support positive behavior guidance techniques that promote self-regulation, conflict resolution, and social skills development.
• Model appropriate behavior and reinforce positive behaviors through praise and encouragement.
• Communicate effectively with children, parents/guardians, fellow staff members, and YMCA leadership. Provide feedback on children’s progress and behavior as appropriate.
• Participate in training sessions, staff meetings, and professional development opportunities to enhance skills and knowledge relevant to the job.

Accountable for achieving assigned organizational and youth development goals as measured through program quality, safety and compliance outcomes, accreditation readiness, cause-driven measures, operating results, participant and team member experience, and supervisor evaluation.

Requirements

• Functional Expertise
• Program and Project Management
• Developing Self and Others

Qualifications

• Shall be at least