CHILD & YOUTH PROGRAM ASSISTANT (CHILD DEVELOPMENT CENTER)

Duties

Independently performs the more routine simple child care tasks following step by step instructions. Works under the written and verbal direction of the supervisor who provides instructions and assistance on scope of assignments and in completing tasks. Performs work that is reviewed by the supervisor, in detail, while in progress and upon completion to ensure and assess progress, and evaluate attainment of training objectives and readiness for further training.

Serves as a Child &Youth Program Assistant (CYPA) in one child & youth activity room. Assists in implementing and leading planned activities for program participants. Uses prepared curriculum and program materials. Assists with the implementation of daily schedules and activity plans. Helps prepare, arrange, and maintain indoor and outdoor activity areas and materials to accommodate daily skills. Prepares and implements program options for children and youth with special requirements.

Assists in implementing and leading planned activities for program participants. Incorporates special instructions provided by parents pertaining to dietary needs, physical needs, or other information that may affect the child or youth’s experience in the program. Cares for special needs children, and youth as directed by the supervisor. Provides input to, and implements schedules and activity plans. Sets up displays and bulletin boards.

Interacts with children, and youth using approved child guidance and youth development techniques. Interacts professionally with staff members, parents, and Command representatives. Participates in conferences with parents and staff. Assists with developing a list of needed supplies and equipment for submission to the supervisor. Helps create games and play materials (mixing paint and play dough and assembling props for dramatic play, activities, etc.).

Supervises children and youth during daily schedule of indoor and outdoor activities, on field trips, outings and special events. Promotes and models safety, fitness, health and nutrition practices. Notifies supervisor on health, fire, and safety compliance concerns. Helps arrange for/serve appropriate snacks/meals where applicable. Ensures children and youth (as applicable) depart with authorized person according to written parent instructions. Observes program participants for signs that may indicate illness, abuse, or neglect and reports as directed. Participates in program evaluation as required.

Observes children for signs that may indicate illness, abuse or neglect and reports as directed. Participates in program evaluation as required. Assists in achieving and maintaining DoD certification and national accreditation or equivalent. Provides care/supervision, oversight, and accountability for children and youth in compliance with local policies, guidance and standards.

Completes all training requirements, including orientation, monthly, annual and the approved Marine Corps Standardized Module Training as prescribed, and tracks and records completed training on own Individual Development Plan (IDP).

Inventories equipment on a recurring basis and recommends replenishing damaged, missing, and depleted supplies. Secures supplies, equipment, and facilities. Collects, maintains and reports program participation data.

Performs other related duties as assigned.

Qualifications

Successfully complete:  a local installation records check as applicable, state criminal history checks, initiation and completion of a National Agency Check with Inquiries (NACI) and a Defense Clearance and Investigations Index for re-verification for employees who provide child care services.  Ability to satisfactorily complete all required training and demonstrate competencies according to established timeframes to retain employment status.  Be able to lift and carry children and objects up to 45lbs independently and over 45lbs with assistance.  Be 18 years of age, have the ability to speak, read and write English, follow verbal and written instructions and communicate effectively orally and in writing.  Be physically and mentally capable of providing care for children, pass health screenings annually to show good physical and mental health and freedom from communicable disease to include up-to-date immunizations, test for Tuberculosis and any other tests deemed necessary and appropriate by local medical authorities per MCO 1710.30E.  May be required to obtain a valid commercial driver’s license (CDL), current food handler’s certification, CPR and first aid certifications.  Prior experience working with children, or youth preferred.