Camp Counselor Hafaday
Westport Weston Family YMCA
Posted on Feb 24, 2026
Camp Counselor Hafaday
Westport, CT 06880
Description
Position Summary
Under the direction of the Mini Camp Director and Assistant Director, Mini Camp Counselors supervise and nurture young children ages 3–6 in a safe, structured, and playful environment. Counselors actively engage campers in age-appropriate activities that support social, emotional, and physical development. Staff provide close supervision, gentle guidance, and hands-on assistance throughout the camp day while fostering a warm, welcoming atmosphere for children and families.
Essential Functions
- Provide constant supervision of a small group of children ages 3–6.
- Create a safe, nurturing, and engaging environment where young campers feel comfortable and supported.
- Assist in planning, leading, and participating in developmentally appropriate activities including arts & crafts, imaginative play, songs, movement games, outdoor play, and story time.
- Support children with daily routines such as bathroom use, handwashing, snack/lunch time, and transitions between activities.
- Use positive behavior guidance strategies appropriate for preschool and kindergarten-age children.
- Monitor camper safety at all times, including playground supervision and indoor activities.
- Engage in aquatics activities, including entering the pool to supervise and assist campers during splash pad time and swim lessons.
- Maintain a clean, organized environment following health and sanitation standards.
- Communicate regularly and positively with parents/guardians during drop-off and pick-up.
- Assist with camper check-in/check-out procedures.
- Work collaboratively with fellow counselors and leadership to ensure a high-quality program.
- Attend all required staff meetings and trainings.
- Follow all camp policies and procedures, including those related to safety, medical situations, emergencies, and child protection.
- Complete Child Abuse Prevention training annually and report any concerns immediately to a supervisor.
- Assist with setup, cleanup, and daily preparation of activity areas.
Qualifications
- Genuine enjoyment of working with young children.
- Experience with preschool-age children strongly preferred (camp, childcare, preschool, babysitting, etc.).
- Minimum age requirement: 16 years old (or per state regulations).
- Ability to provide patient, attentive care and maintain a calm demeanor.
- Strong communication skills with both children and adults.
- Ability to follow directions and work as part of a team.
- Completion of all required trainings prior to the start of camp.
- Ability to respond appropriately in emergencies and administer basic first aid if trained.
Desired Personal Qualities
- Warm, energetic, and enthusiastic
- Responsible and dependable
- Patient and compassionate
- Creative and playful
- Safety-focused
Share job details to