Day Camp Program Specialist

Peoria Park District•Peoria, IL

7d•$16 - $16

About The Position

Under the supervision of the Out of School Programs & Camp Manager, the Day Camp Counselor is responsible for the following: Assisting in the direction, supervision, and organization of campers, their activities, and their daily needs. Developing activities, games, and crafts that fit the weekly theme and campers ages and interests. Ensuring all required supplies are available, given instructions to counselors when applicable, and leading said activities. Being knowledgeable on a variety of sports, games, and activities Able to speak in front of a crowd to give instructions to campers and staff on the program, and provide written instruction when needed Assisting the Camp Supervisors in scheduling the camps activities Ability to adapt activities to fit different ages and abilities Assisting with the Counselor In Training Program through mentorship and program design and leadership Applying basic youth development principles in working with campers through communication, relationship development, and respect for diversity, involvement, and empowerment of youth. Monitoring and assisting in the daily care of each camper within your supervision including recognition of personal health needs. Being alert to campers and staff's needs and assisting them as needed; discussing problems with camp supervisors and/or camp director when appropriate. Being alert to equipment and facilities to ensure proper care and utilization; reporting needs promptly to the camp director. Providing supervision for campers while being transported to and from, and during field trips off of camp property. Monitoring the safety of campers and staff at all times, in all locations. Providing parents and supervisors with appropriate written and/or verbal feedback and information as needed for campers to have a successful camp experience. Positively representing the camp when interacting with parents or community members. Upholding American Camp Association standards. Following all safety procedures that pertain to the duties performed; supporting all aspects of the Park District's safety program. Act as a group counselor as needed Performing all other duties as required.

Requirements

Education: Minimum of two years of high school. Coursework in child development, education, psychology, science, recreation, sociology, physical education, or other related subjects is a plus.
Experience: Previous camp, child care, or recreation experience required.
Must be 16 year of age or older.
Certification: Ability to obtain or become certified in First Aid/CPR (free certification available at Peoria Park District upon hiring).
Knowledge and Ability: Ability to interact with all age levels.
Must be caring, enthusiastic and have a legitimate enjoyment of working with children.
Understanding of the developmental needs of youth.
Ability to follow oral and written instructions and work harmoniously with the public and other staff members, including adults and youth.
Ability to lead or assist in facilitating games and programming. Training in program areas will be provided.
Ability to observe camper behaviors, assess their appropriateness, enforce appropriate safety regulations and emergency procedures, and apply appropriate behavior-management techniques.
Ability to be professional, respectful, accountable, innovative, to follow safety procedures, and be equitable to both internal and external customers.

Nice To Haves

Previous Peoria Park District Camp experience preferred.

Responsibilities

Assisting in the direction, supervision, and organization of campers, their activities, and their daily needs.
Developing activities, games, and crafts that fit the weekly theme and campers ages and interests.
Ensuring all required supplies are available, given instructions to counselors when applicable, and leading said activities.
Being knowledgeable on a variety of sports, games, and activities
Able to speak in front of a crowd to give instructions to campers and staff on the program, and provide written instruction when needed
Assisting the Camp Supervisors in scheduling the camps activities
Ability to adapt activities to fit different ages and abilities
Assisting with the Counselor In Training Program through mentorship and program design and leadership
Applying basic youth development principles in working with campers through communication, relationship development, and respect for diversity, involvement, and empowerment of youth.
Monitoring and assisting in the daily care of each camper within your supervision including recognition of personal health needs.
Being alert to campers and staff's needs and assisting them as needed; discussing problems with camp supervisors and/or camp director when appropriate.
Being alert to equipment and facilities to ensure proper care and utilization; reporting needs promptly to the camp director.
Providing supervision for campers while being transported to and from, and during field trips off of camp property.
Monitoring the safety of campers and staff at all times, in all locations.
Providing parents and supervisors with appropriate written and/or verbal feedback and information as needed for campers to have a successful camp experience.
Positively representing the camp when interacting with parents or community members.
Upholding American Camp Association standards.
Following all safety procedures that pertain to the duties performed; supporting all aspects of the Park District's safety program.
Act as a group counselor as needed
Performing all other duties as required.