Kinderstop Staff

FLSA Status: Non-Exempt | Employment Type: Part-Time, 10-month position | Department: Recreation

About the Role

The KinderStop Aide is a part-time, year-round position responsible for assisting with the daily operation of the KinderStop before and after school program serving preschool, kindergarten, and first-grade participants. This position provides a safe, engaging, and positive environment by supervising children, leading activities, and supporting the overall success of the program.

Pay

The starting hiring range is $15.00 - $16.24 per hour dependent on experience and education. Full pay range for this position is $15.00 - $19.49 per hour.

Schedule

This is a part-time, year-round position that follows the school-year calendar (approximately ten (10) months of the year). Work hours vary based on program needs and include morning and afternoon shifts before and after school.

Benefits

• Fitness Membership Program
• Facility Discounts on a variety of recreational activities including Racquetball, Tennis/Pickleball, and Golf

Responsibilities

• Provide active supervision to ensure the safety and well-being of all program participants.
• Plan, lead, and participate in age-appropriate indoor and outdoor games and activities.
• Foster a positive, inclusive, and welcoming environment for participants and families.
• Prepare, organize, and clean-up program supplies, materials, and activity spaces before and after each program.
• Conduct a 30-second site safety walkthrough prior to each shift.
• Follow all Park District policies, procedures, and safety practices, including maintaining three points of contact when appropriate.
• Comply with the Illinois Abused and Neglected Child Reporting Act and all mandatory reporting requirements.
• Communicate professionally and effectively with participants, parents/guardians, coworkers, and supervisors.
• Assist with behavior management using positive guidance techniques.
• Make recommendations for program improvements and activities.
• Complete accident and incident reports as required.
• Report safety concerns, maintenance issues, or participant concerns to the Recreation Supervisor.
• Perform other related duties as assigned by the Kinderstop Coordinator or Recreation Supervisor.

Requirements

• Minimum age of 16 years.
• Previous experience working with children ages 4–7 preferred.
• Knowledge of Park District programs is helpful.
• Must obtain CPR/AED/First Aid certification within two (2) months of hire.
• Must successfully complete the Park District's background screening process, in accordance with applicable law.

Skills

• Ability to effectively supervise groups of young children in a recreational setting.
• Strong interpersonal and customer service skills.
• Ability to communicate effectively with participants, parents/guardians, coworkers, and supervisors.
• Ability to exercise sound judgment and respond appropriately to routine and unexpected situations.
• Ability to maintain professionalism, patience, and a positive attitude while working with children.
• Ability to follow written and verbal instructions and work both independently and as part of a team.
• Basic organizational and time management skills.

Physical, Cognitive, and Environmental Requirements

• Ability to actively participate in children's games and recreational activities, including running, jumping, bending, kneeling, and sitting on and rising from the floor.
• Ability to stand, walk, or remain active for extended periods throughout the workday.
• Ability to lift and carry program supplies weighing up to 25 pounds.
• Ability to communicate effectively in person and by telephone.
• Ability to respond calmly and appropriately during emergencies and challenging situations.
• Ability to resolve conflicts fairly and exercise sound judgment.
• Ability to work indoors and outdoors in varying weather conditions and temperatures.
• Cognitive ability to multitask, prioritize responsibilities, maintain confidentiality, and ensure participant safety.

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of this position.