Youth Music/Art Instructor (Oshkosh 20th Ave YMCA)

Youth Music/Art Instructors lead engaging, age-appropriate music and art experiences for young children in a welcoming YMCA environment. This position is responsible for leading fun, hands-on classes that encourage creativity, exploration, self-expression, movement, and a love of the arts.

The ideal candidate enjoys working with children whose age can range from toddler to youth and is comfortable leading groups through songs, movement activities, musical exploration, art projects, and other creative activities. Classes may include preschool music, parent/child music classes, art, or other creative youth programs.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

- Lead developmentally appropriate music and art classes for children using provided lesson plans

- Create engaging, playful, and inclusive learning experiences that encourage children to explore and express themselves creatively.

- Lead activities such as singing, movement, rhythm and beat exploration, musical instrument play, storytelling, creative art projects, and sensory experiences.

- Prepare classroom space with materials and supplies provided before each class and clean and organize the space afterward

- Adapt activities to accommodate different ages, abilities, attention spans, and comfort levels.

- Provide positive guidance and maintain a safe, welcoming, and respectful classroom environment.

- Encourage children to participate without requiring them to perform or participate in a way that creates anxiety or discomfort

- Communicate appropriately and professionally with parents, caregivers, YMCA staff, and participants.

- Follow YMCA policies and procedures including health, safety, and child-protection guidelines.

- Maintain appropriate supervision of children throughout the program time

- Provide feedback to the Youth Programs & Reservations Coordinator or Youth & Family Director regarding class participation, supplies, program needs, and ideas for future programming

- Attend required staff meetings, trainings, and orientations

- Perform other duties as assigned.

Schedule & Hours: This is a part-time position. Hours will vary depending on class registrations, session schedules, and program needs. Scheduled hours will take place Monday thru Friday with varying hours. Morning, mid-day, and evening options are available. If more hours are needed, this position may be cross-trained with Special Events & Family Programs.

Qualifications

- Comfortable working with a variety of ages from toddlers through school-age children

- Ability to lead engaging activities for young children

- Strong communication and interpersonal skills

- Ability to maintain a positive, patient, and encouraging classroom environment

- Dependability and willingness to commit to class times in advance

- Ability to work independently while following YMCA policies and program expectations

Preferred:

- Experience teaching music, art, dance, early childhood education, or another creative discipline

- Education or experience in music, art, early childhood education, child development, or a related field

- Experience working in a group classroom or recreational setting

- CPR/AED and First Aid certification, or willingness to obtain certification.