UPK Aftercare Assistant

Position Type: Part-Time, 10-Month School Year Position
Schedule: Follows the local school district calendar
Hours: Aftercare hours, typically 2:30 PM–6:30 PM
Pay Range: $17.00–$19.00 per hour, based on experience and qualifications

Position Summary

The YMCA of Central and Northern Westchester is a charitable, not-for-profit organization serving communities throughout Putnam and Westchester counties. The YMCA is committed to strengthening the community through youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility.

We are seeking a dedicated and enthusiastic UPK Aftercare Assistant to join our team and support a safe, nurturing, and engaging preschool aftercare program. This is a part-time, 10-month seasonal position that follows the local school district calendar.

The UPK Aftercare Assistant will work alongside the UPK teaching team to provide a positive environment that supports children's social, emotional, physical, and developmental needs.

UPK Aftercare Assistant Responsibilities

• Assist the UPK Teacher with daily aftercare activities, including arts and crafts, physical activities, games, and other age-appropriate experiences.
• Provide a safe, healthy, nurturing, and engaging environment for all children.
• Supervise children at all times and maintain required licensing ratios.
• Support classroom routines, transitions, snack time, and daily activities.
• Build positive and professional relationships with children, families, teachers, and YMCA staff.
• Serve as a positive role model by demonstrating the YMCA character values of Caring, Honesty, Respect, and Responsibility.
• Support children's social-emotional development and encourage positive interactions with peers.
• Assist with classroom organization, cleaning, and preparation of materials.
• Follow all YMCA policies and procedures, including those related to child supervision, medical situations, emergency procedures, and child abuse prevention.
• Communicate any concerns regarding children or the program to the UPK Teacher or Director.
• Participate in required YMCA training and professional development.
• Perform other duties as assigned by the Supervisor.

UPK Aftercare Assistant Benefits

• Part-time, 10-month seasonal position following the school district calendar
• Professional development and training opportunities
• Hands-on experience working in early childhood education
• Supportive team environment
• Opportunity to work in a school-based preschool program
• Potential opportunities for additional hours based on program needs

Qualifications

• Must be at least 18 years of age.
• Previous experience working with young children preferred.
• Bachelor's Degree, Associate's Degree, or coursework in Early Childhood Education preferred.
• Child Development Associate (CDA) Credential in Preschool preferred.
• Knowledge of age-appropriate activities and expectations for children ages 3–5 preferred.
• Excellent customer service, interpersonal, and communication skills.
• Ability to work collaboratively with teachers, families, and YMCA staff.
• Demonstrates maturity, responsibility, patience, and a genuine interest in working with young children.
• Must be able to maintain a safe and positive environment for all children.

Position Locations