Make a Difference Every Day

At Countryside YMCA, we believe in strengthening our community through youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility. As part of our Early Learning team, you’ll help young children build confidence, curiosity, and compassion in a safe, nurturing environment.

Position Summary

The Teacher supports the work of the Y by assisting with planning and leading daily classroom activities that foster children’s growth and development. Working closely with the Lead Teacher, you’ll help create an engaging, safe, and healthy learning environment aligned with the mission of Countryside YMCA and in compliance with Step Up to Quality, USDA Child & Adult Food Program, and ODJFS regulations.

What You’ll Do

• Assist the Lead Teacher with classroom planning, supervision, and implementation of developmentally appropriate activities.
• Care for and attend to children’s needs, including feeding, dressing, and monitoring learning and playtime.
• Encourage children’s emotional, social, and physical development and nurture positive self-esteem.
• Monitor developmental milestones and communicate concerns to parents or guardians as needed.
• Teach children personal and healthy habits such as hygiene, rest, and nutrition.
• Maintain accurate records of activities, meals, and daily observations.
• Help maintain a clean, safe, and fun environment by sanitizing toys and equipment regularly.
• Uphold YMCA values of Caring, Honesty, Respect, and Responsibility in all interactions.

Qualifications

Education: High School Diploma or equivalent required.

Experience: At least one year of prior experience working with children preferred.

Certifications: CPR and First Aid certification required within 30 days of hire (YMCA will assist).

Must pass a criminal background check in accordance with ODJFS requirements.

Skills & Attributes

• Excellent communication and teamwork skills.
• Patience, creativity, and a passion for helping children learn and grow.
• Strong understanding of early childhood principles and classroom management techniques.
• Ability to maintain professionalism and confidentiality.

Physical Requirements

• Prolonged periods of standing, bending, and engaging with children.
• Must be able to lift up to 50 lbs.
• Exposure to common childhood illnesses is expected in a childcare setting.

Benefits

Full-time employees enjoy a comprehensive benefits package, including:

• Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
• Paid Time Off (PTO)
• Short- and Long-Term Disability
• Retirement Plan participation (upon eligibility)
• Complimentary Family Membership to Countryside YMCA

Join Our Team

If you’re passionate about shaping young lives and being part of a supportive, mission-driven team, we’d love to meet you! Help us make every day at the Y a place where children learn, play, and grow together.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Countryside YMCA is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. All employment decisions are based on merit, qualifications, and the needs of the organization, without regard to race, color, religion, gender, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other protected status.