Lead Counselor

Essential Functions

• Provide primary supervision and guidance for a designated group of Pre-K campers, ensuring their safety, engagement, and well-being throughout the day.
• Lead and support Assistant and Junior Counselors by modeling best practices in early childhood care, behavior management, and positive communication.
• Create and maintain consistent daily routines that meet the developmental needs of preschool-aged children.
• Learn and use each child’s name; respond promptly and compassionately to children’s physical, emotional, and developmental needs.
• Greet campers daily with warmth and enthusiasm, helping them transition smoothly into the camp day.
• Develop positive, professional relationships with families and caregivers, communicating appropriately with support from supervision when needed.
• Plan, implement, and lead developmentally appropriate activities including circle time, outdoor play, creative arts, sensory activities, music, stories, and theme-based learning experiences.
• Support children’s social-emotional development through positive guidance, encouragement, and age-appropriate expectations.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe classroom and playground environment in accordance with NJ licensing standards
• Collaborate effectively with all camp and Peanut Shell staff to ensure a cohesive, nurturing program environment.
• Demonstrate enthusiasm, patience, and commitment in all interactions with children and staff, consistently exceeding minimum expectations.
• Teach and model the YMCA Four Core Values—Caring, Respect, Honesty, and Responsibility—through daily interactions and activities
• Follow the direction of the Camp Director, Site Director, or assigned supervisor and support overall program goals.
• Create a positive, inclusive, and nurturing learning environment that promotes youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility.

Safety & Compliance

• Attend and complete all required YMCA, NJ childcare licensing, and early childhood trainings.
• At all times uphold YMCA and Peanut Shell safety standards, including active supervision, face counts, and age-appropriate child-to-staff ratios.
• Understand and follow all Emergency, Health & Safety, and Risk Management policies and procedures.
• Supervise transitions, meals, bathroom routines, rest periods, and outdoor play with close attention to safety and supervision.
• Complete and submit accident reports, behavior documentation, incident reports, and required paperwork to the supervisor as appropriate.
• Report all concerns related to safety, behavior, or child well-being immediately to the Camp Director or Site Supervisor.
• Use positive behavior guidance strategies such as redirection, modeling, and reinforcement to support appropriate behavior.