Children's Playroom Aide (Recreational Aide)
POSITION SUMMARY: This is a direct service position in the residential component of Haven House working primarily in the playroom with child witnesses of domestic violence who are residing in the shelter with their mother.
Major responsibilities/activities:
Plan and implement a variety of creative programs for children of various ages on a daily basis. This will include recreational and educational activities such as arts and crafts, stories, baking, games, songs, sports, outings in the community programming for children and families;
Organize and maintain two conducive playroom environments;
Serve as an appropriate role model by assisting families during meal times with serving, feeding, and cleaning up their eating area. Role model various discipline techniques including time out, removing privileges, distraction, etc.;
Maintain written reports and documentation as necessary;
Enforce shelter regulations regarding playroom and children’s issues and consult with staff regarding any unusual behaviors or incidents;
Plan special seasonal events or outings;
Practice sensitivity and acceptance of diversity;
Must maintain and submit all of the required documents and comply with all aspects of the Vehicle Safety and Usage Policy.
Wash and arrange playroom toys on a regular basis;
Participate in Program Meetings, Staff Meetings and Staff Development Sessions;
Actively participate in the Child & Family Services QI Initiative.
Possess a valid NYS driver's license and have the use of a car.
Be able to function as a member of a team.
Abide by a smoke-free work environment.
Be able to access a multi-level building and engage in lifting.
Be sufficiently active and mobile to participate in and supervise activities
Possess an Associate’s Degree in Child Development or other closely related degree; or high school diploma with three years of child care experience (preferably in a paid setting)
Abide by the code of ethics set forth by the National Association of Social Work (NASW).
Adhere to principles of non-violence.
Desired Qualifications:
Prior domestic violence experience;
Bi-lingual skills (specifically English/Spanish)
Essential Physical Requirements:
Frequently move about inside and outside the office in reaction to situations and duties.
Frequently communicate accurate information with coworkers, clients and children who will use the agency services.
Frequently operate a computer and other office machinery, such as a calculator, copy machine, printer and phone system.
Must be able to access multi-level buildings and travel to sites within the community.
Employee must be able to engage in standing, bending, squatting, and kneeling, as well as systematically restraining the arms, legs and torso of the youth. These actions may require utilization of controlled force, and may result in physical impact to the employee.
Essential Mental Requirements:
Must be able to understand the written and spoken word and respond effectively during the majority of time spent on the job;
Must be able to learn and comprehend basic instructions and orientation to job;
Must be able to multi-task on a frequent basis;
Frequently participate and coordinate with others regarding work situations and decisions;
Frequently interact appropriately and diplomatically with varied stakeholders such as volunteers, staff members, visitors, referral sources, etc.
Equipment Used:
Computer literacy, able to use telephone, fax machine and copier
Able to use indoor playground equipment
Audio-visual equipment and small kitchen appliances.
Environmental/Working Conditions: Access multilevel buildings and some travel.
To apply for this position, please complete the online application.