After School Care Staffing
After school programs serve student's academic, social, and emotional needs that may otherwise be left unattended after school. As reported by the After School Alliance in May of 2008, 6.5 million children profited from after school supervision and activities. Finding the right person for an after school care staffing position requires clearly defined goals for your program, students as well as parents, and the surrounding community. Good after school helpers have had previous experiences with children, are able to handle a stressful environment, and are capable of reinforcing school academic expectations.
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Education
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Depending on your program's hours and needs, the person most likely to be able to accommodate an after school schedule would have a flexible afternoon schedule and not depend on benefits. A high school or college student, retired teacher, or an assistant teacher would most likely fall into those categories and have the necessary skills and experience to greatly enrich your program. It will be imperative for a potential staffer to demonstrate their knowledge of the particular grade levels represented in your program, and/or demonstrated experience with helping children succeed academically in the classroom by way of standard assessments or recommendations.
Creative Minds
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After an intense day at school, the after school environment serves as a place for children to deviate from structure. Although there is usually a routine, it will be important for a staff member to be able provide guidance and activities that will keep students occupied and stimulated. Pose different scenarios for the interviewee regarding planned individual or group activities or games that focus on the goals of your program. The potential staff member should be able to provide indoor and outdoor activities as well.
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Stress Relief
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Part of working with children means remaining flexible. A good indicator that a person will be able to function in a high energy environment is the way they maintain an equilibrium between work, home life and personal time. In your interview, ask questions that pertain to lifestyle such as an exercise regimen, diet and leisure activities. Be sure to share your own lifestyle activities to allow the person to feel comfortable sharing.
Healthy Conscience
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Meals for after school usually consist of a snack. This time can be used as an opportunity for students to explore healthy habits. A staff member should be aware of methods and lessons necessary for helping students recognize and develop healthy habits. Have the potential staff member demonstrate her background in nutrition by analyzing issues that are related to junk food as well as the advantages of healthy dieting. Equally important is knowing different reasons for snacking such as being unoccupied, depression and routine.
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References
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