Childwatch Morning Lead Counselor- Langham Creek

POSITION SUMMARY

The Childwatch Site Lead is responsible for creating a safe, engaging, and inclusive environment for children while their parents/guardians participate in YMCA activities. This position requires a dedicated and responsible youth development professional committed to providing high quality care in the Childwatch program. Counselors will teach values, ensure safety, and facilitate structured play and educational activities for children, in line with youth development principles and YMCA policies.

The Childwatch Site Lead will assist in delivering a positive experience for both children and parents/guardians, focusing on youth development and the core values of the YMCA: honesty, respect, responsibility, caring, and faith. They will ensure the safety and well-being of children by leading age‑appropriate activities and effectively monitoring children's behavior. This position requires attentiveness, strong communication skills, a dedication to creating a safe and enriching environment, and the ability to provide attentive care and supervision to all children.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Site Management:
Serves as the designated lead, ensuring full compliance with all YMCA of Greater Houston and Youth Development standards. Oversees the daily operations of the Childwatch program to maintain a safe, welcoming, nurturing, and engaging environment at all times for all children. Maintains the cleanliness and organization of the program site and equipment, including setting up and breaking down activity centers.

• Supervision and Safety:
Ensure the safety and well‑being of all children and staff in a welcoming Childwatch environment by monitoring activities to promote safe, age‑appropriate behavior and adherence to YMCA policies. Provide for children's physical needs, including feeding, assisting with restrooms, administering first aid/CPR, and notifying the parents/guardians of necessary diaper changes. Maintain accurate and up‑to‑date records such as attendance, incident reports, and compliance documentation.

Conduct regular headcounts and ensure staff follow policies, providing redirection as needed. Respond promptly and appropriately to emergencies and incidents in alignment with established YMCA protocols and procedures, including emergency preparedness.

• Behavior Management:
Implements positive behavior management techniques that foster a respectful and inclusive environment while addressing the emotional needs of children. Responds to behavioral issues calmly and constructively, following established guidelines, and provides support by soothing distressed children, comforting those who are sick or hurt, redirecting negative behavior, and offering positive reinforcement. Communicates important information or observations to incoming staff regarding individual children and provides an updated list of children currently in attendance.

• Program & Policy Compliance:
Conduct regular assessments to ensure compliance with youth development standards and organizational policies, procedures, and protocols. Follow all organizational policies, procedures, and procedures, including those related to health and safety, child protection, and confidentiality. Maintain a clean and organized environment, adhering to sanitation and safety standards. Report any concerns or issues to Program Director in a timely manner.

• Program Planning and Implementation:
Oversee the implementation of age‑appropriate activities, including structured and unstructured activities as outlined in YMCA approved curriculum. Encourage and facilitate positive social interactions among children. Adapt activities to meet the diverse needs and interests of all children. Evaluate program effectiveness and make adjustments as necessary.

• Relationship Building:
Maintains positive relations with children, parents/guardians, center operations, directors, and other staff. Attends and participates in staff meetings and staff trainings.

• Parent and Community Engagement:
Communicate regularly with parents/guardians regarding their child's progress, behavior, and any concerns. Address inquiries and concerns promptly and professionally. Follow…