Early Childhood Afterschool Teacher

Salary: $18.00 - $24.89 Hourly

The YMCA of Greater New York is here for all New Yorkers – to empower youth, improve health, and strengthen community. Founded in 1852, today the Y serves a diverse population of more than half a million New Yorkers who learn, grow, and thrive through programs and services at our 24 branches. Community is the cornerstone of the Y. Together, we connect active, engaged New Yorkers to build stronger communities.

To help fulfill our mission, we cultivate a culture of learning, leading, and collaboration to enhance community impact. Through our talented staff and “LEAP” career framework (Leadership, Empowerment, Accountability, Personal Growth), we are committed to a people‑first approach that fosters trust, inclusion, growth, and development for all.

The YMCA of Greater New York, New York City’s leading nonprofit community service and wellness organization, is seeking an Early Childhood After school Teacher at the West Side YMCA. Under the supervision of the Early Childhood Director, the After school Teacher will be responsible for providing a safe and positive environment for preschool‑age children, including opportunities for learning, interaction, and academic and personal growth.

The YMCA After school Program operates between 3:00-5:30 pm, Monday‑Friday.

• Ensure the health, safety, and well‑being of participants in the program by providing close supervision of all activities.
• Plan and implement meaningful activities, lesson plans, and special events that are age‑appropriate, exciting, challenging, and values‑based in the areas of arts, STEM, character development/SEL, creative expression, community service, physical fitness, and/or nutrition.
• Prepare the learning environment, lessons, and necessary supplies for program activities.
• Provide support to Activity Specialists with activity implementation.
• Work cooperatively with program and school staff.
• Promote an inclusive, welcoming, and respectful environment that embraces the diversity of all participants.
• Create and maintain a strength‑based, youth‑focused atmosphere that is consistent and sensitive to the needs of participants with learning, emotional, or behavioral differences.
• Serve as a positive role model for participants.
• Maintain accurate program documentation (sign in/out forms, behavior reports, and incident reports, as appropriate).
• Understand and communicate the YMCA’s core values and the goals of the Y After school program to participants and caregivers.
• Develop and maintain positive relationships with parents and caregivers through regular communication about their child’s strengths and areas of growth.
• Actively participate in training sessions, designated meetings, and special events.
• Adhere to all Department of Health, YMCA of Greater New York, and funder standards, expectations, and regulations.

Must have one of the below:

• Bachelor’s Degree in Early Childhood Education (or related field) and State Teacher certification.
• Bachelor’s Degree in Early Childhood Education (or a related field) and at least two years of documented experience as a Group Teacher in a program serving children under six years of age.
• Approved DOH study plan (before hire) leading to an Associate’s Degree in Early Childhood Education within seven years.
• At least two years of experience working with youth under the age of 13 in a group setting.
• Knowledge of child development and developmentally appropriate practices.
• General knowledge of Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.
• Strong interpersonal skills, leadership qualities, and comfortable with working with diverse youth and adults.

• retirement benefits
• medical benefits
• paid time off
• free YMCA membership

Benefit eligibility is determined by an individual’s employment status (i.e., full-time or part‑time), tenure, and/or the number of hours scheduled to work.