Inspire Growth, Foster Connections: Lead the Way as a Caregiver and Me Class Instructor!

Caregiver and Me Class Instructors will lead and facilitate interactive classes designed for caregivers and their young children (ages 2-5). The ideal candidate will be a dynamic individual with a passion for early childhood development and a strong commitment to supporting both caregivers and children in a fun, supportive, and educational environment.

Class instructors will prepare and lead a variety of activities that foster bonding, communication, and learning between caregivers and their children. Instructors' role is to create a welcoming and positive environment where caregivers can connect, learn, and grow together with their children.

Salary starts at $17.80 per hour with opportunities to grow within the organization! 

Our staff is the Y's greatest asset. Our teams provide valuable skills, knowledge, and passion that is essential to the contribution and positive impact in our communities, which is why we offer Y employees numerous perks and benefits, including:      We offer salaries that reflect your skills, experience, and the value you bring to our team.  Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance plans for eligible employees, along with access to wellness programs, mental health resources, and a family gym membership.  Generous paid time off (PTO), including paid holidays. We also offer flexible work hours to help you balance your personal and professional life.  403(b) plan with company contributions after 2 years of service to help you plan for your future.  Opportunities for continuous learning through workshops and training programs.  A supportive work environment that values diversity, equity, and inclusion. We are committed to creating a workplace where everyone feels welcome and respected.  Discounts on programs, employee assistance programs, and company-sponsored events. 

Scopes and Responsibility

Lead engaging, age-appropriate lessons and activities for caregivers and children that promote the emotional, social, and cognitive development of young children while building caregiver-child relationships. Activities may include singing, storytelling, sensory exploration, motor skill development, and creative play. Ensure that the class runs smoothly, and participants adhere to safety guidelines. Ensures materials and supplies are available and ready for program activities and all program areas and supplies are clean and well maintained regularly. Foster an environment of inclusion, safety, and respect for all participants. Ensure that all activities are suitable for the developmental needs of the children and that caregivers feel supported. Positively interact with children, parents/guardians and other team members to create a respectful, warm, supportive environment. Build relationships with caregivers by being approachable, empathetic, and supportive. Encourage open communication and be responsive to individual concerns. Collect feedback from participants to continually improve the class experience. Maintain accurate attendance records.

Minimum and Preferred Requirements 

Experience in childcare, education, or related program. Must have the proven ability to establish constructive relationships and interact as a positive role model for early learners, parents/caregivers and staff demonstrating the values of respect, responsibility, caring and honesty. Commitment to and passion for the YMCA of Metro Chicago’s mission is required including a passion for working with diverse youth and families. Excellent verbal communication skills, including the ability to clearly and concisely present ideas and concepts. Continuous learner who leverages opportunities for learning and applies new knowledge and skills. Demonstrates evidence of YMCA Y Team competencies in previous experience or practice. Meets physical qualifications required as outlined in job description. The YMCA will provide reasonable accommodations for
persons with disabilities.

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