Youth Development Intern Preschool - Sherman Early Childhood Center

Overwhelmingly, people who decide they want to be a part of the Y in Central Maryland tell us they do so because it reflects their values and a conscious decision, they’ve made about how they choose to live their lives. The happiest and most fulfilled Y associates are those who are motivated to help others and who want to be a part of something larger than themselves. If this speaks to your heart, then we invite you to join our team. Be a part of a charitable, mission-driven organization that works for individual and community well-being for all, for a better us.

At the Y in Central Maryland, we offer a comprehensive benefits package designed to support your well-being and professional growth. Enjoy flexible schedules, competitive pay, and generous paid time off, alongside medical, dental and vision benefits, as well as dependent care FSA. We offer a generous employer contribution to the Y retirement fund, and opportunities for career advancement. Our commitment to fostering a positive work environment means you'll have access to training and development programs that align with our mission to empower individuals and strengthen communities. Join us and bring your passion to a fulfilling career where you can truly make a difference!

Position Summary

We are looking for energetic, open-minded Preschool interns to help foster curiosity, authenticity, and respect with young children. A Youth Development intern should love working with children and believe that young children are competent individuals worthy of a loving, engaging environment. Youth Development interns will have the opportunity to participate as a teacher, learning from the teaching team and receiving feedback to help them grow. They will have time to reflect on the learning they see, and create documentation to reflect that back to the children, as well as opportunities to grow professionally.

Essential Functions

• Encourage children’s social, emotional, cognitive, language and physical development skills through positive developmentally appropriate interactions
• Assist classroom teachers in implementing curriculum
• Assist with basic needs of youth
• Follow Y code of conduct and Office of Childcare regulations and policies
• Interns must possess a strong interest in and commitment to Youth Development
• Ability to promote a caring and respectful attitude toward children, parents, caregivers, and Y associates
  
  

Qualifications

EDUCATION

• High School Diploma or GED preferred, but not required
• Internship experience may be used for course credit
  
  

Experience

• Some experience working with youth or learning about youth development preferred, but not required.
  
  

Skills

• Excellent communication skills
• Establish effective working relationships with associates, parents, and students
• Flexible and adaptive to change
• Maintain regular and reliable attendance
  
  

Working Conditions

• Stand in one area for extended periods of time.
• Stand and walk for extended periods of time.
• Ascend and descend steps.
• Occasional outdoor activities.
• Lift and move up to 50lbs.
  
  

All Y associates agree to abide by The Code of Conduct with Youth that sets clear expectations for associates and volunteers to ensure a safe and respectful environment for young people. It emphasizes treating youth with respect and fairness, avoiding inappropriate physical or verbal interactions, and adhering to established standards of affection. The policy strictly prohibits any form of abuse, bullying, or harassment and mandates the reporting of suspected mistreatment. Additionally, associates and volunteers must complete training on child abuse prevention and comply with legal reporting requirements to safeguard youth.