This is the full performance level of a career ladder. Entry level is Educational Aid (Child and Youth (CY) Program Assistant), CY-I and intermediate level is Educational Aid (Child and Youth (CY) Program Assistant), CY-I. The purpose of the CY Program Assistant is to provide appropriate developmental care and instruction for children and youth ranging in age from 6 weeks to 18 years in one or more CY programs.
Resumes must include information which demonstrates experience and knowledge, skills, and ability (KSAs) as they relate to this position. Applicants are encouraged to be clear and specific when describing their experience level and KSAs. A qualified candidate possesses the following: Knowledge in child and youth development to provide input to an efficient and effective program responsive to the needs of children and youth. Skill to implement developmentally appropriate child and youth development principles/practices and services to provide direct care and education for children and youth, individually or with groups of children and youth. Skill to promote and foster effective working relationships with children and youth and coworkers. Skill to work cooperatively as a member of a team. Ability to follow verbal and written instructions. Ability to communicate effectively in English, both orally and in writing. Ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing. Possesses skill in oral expression to explain processes and procedures and to provide basic program information.
The duties and responsibilities of the CY Program Assistant have been grouped into categories, including curriculum, indoor and outdoor environment, interactions and relationships, supervision of children and youth, parent and employee communication, assessment, compliance, and additional responsibilities. Each is described below. Curriculum Develops schedules and activity plans. This may include reviewing and providing input into schedules and activity plans developed by the entry level and intermediate level Educational Aids (CY Program Assistants), CY-1702-I. Ensures that program plans and activities incorporate the observed needs of individual children and youth. Implements activities and special events that meet the physical, social, emotional, and cognitive needs of children and youth. Incorporates special instructions provided by parents such as special dietary needs, physical needs, or other information that may affect the child or youth's experience in the program. Prepares and implements program options for children and youth with special requirements. Cares for children and youth with special needs as directed by the supervisor. Demonstrates, instructs, leads, and facilitates planned and spontaneous program activities. Role models developmentally appropriate practice and classroom or activity area management techniques. Promotes and models safety, fitness, health, and nutrition practices. Helps arrange for and/or serve appropriate snacks or meals where applicable. Indoor and Outdoor Environment Helps prepare, arrange and maintain indoor and outdoor activity areas and materials to accommodate daily schedules. Sets up displays and bulletin boards. Inventories equipment on a recurring basis and recommends replenishing damaged, missing, and depleted supplies. Secures supplies, equipment, and facilities. Interactions and Relationships Establishes a program environment that sustains participant interest and promotes positive interactions with other children, youth and adults. Interacts with children and youth using approved child guidance and youth development techniques. Supervision of Children and Youth Provides care and supervision, oversight, and accountability for program participants in compliance with the Department of Defense (DoD), NAF Component, and local installation policies, guidance, and standards. Maintains control of and accounts for whereabouts and safety of children and youth. Supervises children and youth during daily schedule of indoor and outdoor activities and on field trips, outings, and special events. Ensures children and youth (as applicable) depart with authorized person according to written parental instructions. Observes program participants for signs that may indicate illness, abuse, or neglect and reports as directed. Incumbent is a mandatory reporter to Family Advocacy and Child Protective Services as prescribed by local policy in the case of suspected incidences of child abuse and neglect. Parent and Employee Communication Interacts professionally with employees, parents, and local installation command personnel. Provides parents with daily verbal or written feedback about their child/youth or program activities. Participates in conferences with parents and employees. Assessment Observes children and youth and documents developmental progression and/or concerns. Uses the information in planning. Participates in program evaluation using designated instruments such as programmatic rating scales, risk assessment tools (as required), self-inspection materials, and national accreditation tools. Compliance Assists in achieving and maintaining DoD certification and national accreditation or equivalent. Ensures compliance with law, policies, and regulations applicable to DoD CY programs Notifies supervisor of health, fire, and safety compliance concerns. Additional Responsibilities Collects, maintains, and reports program participation data. Performs other related duties as assigned.