Child and Youth Program

Location:Community Y
Position Status:Part-Time (2–5 hours per week)
Compensation:$16.75 per hour

There is potential inside all of us – we all have it in usto shine.

Every charity exists to help solve a problem – our charity exists to help solve many. From childcare shortages and social isolation tomental health challenges and access to wellness, our YMCA is committed tomeeting urgent community needs.

With over 100 program locations across HRM and the province,we deliver mental health supports, accessible childcare, services fornewcomers, safe spaces for youth, employment support, wellness programming forall ages, and meaningful connection for older adults.

We give people the tools, encouragement, and safe space to discover their inner strength. When someone knows they have unconditionalsupport in their corner, they realize they can do more than they thought possible.

With us at their side, they can
Shine On.

Reporting to the Community Y Director, the Child and Youth Program Staff plays a key role in creating and delivering engaging, inclusive,and skill-building recreational experiences for children and youth.

This position involves planning and facilitating a varietyof activities — from arts and crafts to sports, games, and hands-on learningworkshops — that foster creativity, confidence, and connection.

Program staff may lead sessions independently and also collaborate in team settings. Above all, they ensure a safe, welcoming environment where participants feel encouraged to try new things, buildfriendships, and grow.

This is a front-line role ideal for individuals passionate about child and youth development who thrive in active, creative environments and are committed to upholding YMCA core values:
caring, honesty,respect, responsibility, and inclusion.

• Provide active supervision during all activities and transitions.
• ImplementYMCA safety protocols and behavior management practices.
• Conduct regular headcounts and ensure proper sign-in/sign-out procedures.
• Report safety concerns and incidents in a timely manner.

• Planand lead age-appropriate activities including games, arts and crafts,sports, educational programming, and recreation.
• Promote teamwork, positive social interaction, and healthy development.
• Supporthomework completion in a positive and encouraging manner.

• Fostera respectful and inclusive environment.
• Serveas a positive role model in behavior, communication, and attitude.
• Build meaningful relationships with children to ensure they feel safe, valued,and heard.
• Support children requiring additional assistance or attention.

• Communicate effectively with children, parents, and YMCA staff.
• Provideparents with feedback on participation and progress.
• Assist with registration, attendance tracking, and documentation.
• Preparematerials and supplies for programming.

• Greetmembers within 5 feet and acknowledge members within 10 feet.
• Maintain clean and organized program spaces.
• Ensure equipment and facilities remain in good repair and report issues promptly.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Post-secondarycoursework in education, recreation, or child development is an asset.
• Previous experience working with children in group settings (e.g., daycare, camp,school) preferred.
• CPRand First Aid certification (or willingness to obtain upon hire).
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Abilityto work collaboratively within a team.
• Abilityto manage groups with diverse needs and interests.
• Demonstrated leadership and ability to remain calm in challenging situations.
• Genuine passion for working with children and…