Summer Day Camp Inclusion Aide

About the role

At the Y, we create an exciting, safe camp environment for kids and staff to have an unforgettable summer. Summer Day Camp Inclusion Aides are key to this experience, developing leadership skills and confidence while fostering lasting friendships and memories.

Responsibilities

• Support and assist one or more individuals who have a disability and are enrolled in Y programs to promote participation in program activities and independence to the fullest extent possible.
• Ensure that individualized needs of participants are met, while serving as a professional role model and guide.
• Serve as a role model in supporting inclusion and high-quality camp programming, creating an outstanding participant experience for children, parents, and families.
• Modify learning or recreational activities as needed, including activities, rules, equipment, and/or supplies as needed.
• Promote participation in program activities and independence to the fullest extent possible.
• Maintain the confidentiality of information pertaining to the individual(s) assigned for support.
• Teach socially acceptable behaviors by serving as a role model and using age-appropriate positive reinforcement and behavior management strategies.
• Implement individualized behavior management plans, when necessary.
• Communicate consistently with team members and program leaders to keep abreast of activities and schedule, in order to prepare for activity modifications.
• Communicate consistently with parents, classroom/program team and program leadership through completion of a weekly summary of the individual’s participation.
• Support program activities as assigned by supervisor, including substitute support for ongoing camp activities.
• Ensure the physical and emotional health and safety of participants by being safety conscious, following all established YMCA standards, and critically evaluating situations for potential risks.
• Be alert and responsive to any specific health and safety needs of the individual with a disability.
• Ensure compliance with established rules and regulations to ensure safety.
• Monitor participants and team members, providing coaching and intervention as necessary.
• Set up facilities and/or equipment for activities and store equipment appropriately after use.
• Immediately notify program leaders of any broken or unsafe equipment or if more resources/equipment are needed.
• Work to keep program facilities clean at all times.

Requirements

• A high school diploma or equivalent.
• Must be at least 18 years of age or older.
• Prior experience working with children; experience with children with disabilities and/or in a similar program setting preferred.
• Commitment to, and passion for, the YMCA of Metro Chicago’s mission and serving the needs of diverse youth.
• Basic knowledge of child growth and development as well as developmentally appropriate practices for age group.
• The ability to understand and implement an inclusion plan and provide recommended strategies.
• The ability to observe participant behavior and apply appropriate behavior management techniques is essential.
• Demonstrated interpersonal and verbal communication skills with the ability to build constructive relationships, act as a role model, and communicate effectively with children, families, team members, and others.
• Demonstrated evidence of YMCA Y Team competencies in previous experience or practice.
• Meet physical qualifications required as outlined in job description.

Qualifications

• Meet additional program guidelines for background checks and medical screening where necessary based on program supported.
• Child Abuse Prevention - Support the YMCA’s commitment to child abuse prevention by:
• Reporting any items that may provide a health or safety hazard to staff, members or guests to your supervisor.
• Following all policies and procedures related to keeping children safe in our facilities and programs, including those related to the monitoring and supervision of children.
• Reporting any suspicious behavior and violation of policy and procedures to your supervisor.
• Completing all child abuse prevention training, as required.

Skills

• Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
• Ability to adapt to changing circumstances and priorities.
• Knowledge of child development and inclusive practices.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality.
• Positive attitude and enthusiasm for working with children and young people.

Benefits

• Competitive salaries reflecting your skills and experience.
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance for eligible employees, plus wellness programs, mental health resources, and a family gym membership.
• Generous PTO and paid holidays, with flexible work hours for work-life balance.
• 403(b) plan with company contributions for eligible employees after 2 years of service.
• Continuous learning opportunities through workshops and training programs.
• A supportive work environment valuing diversity, equity, and inclusion.
• Discounts on programs, employee assistance programs, and company-sponsored events.

Pay

$17.90 per hour, Monday-Friday schedule.

Schedule

Monday-Friday schedule.