Job Description: Summer Camp Counselor for Preschool-Age Children

Position Title: Summer Camp Counselor
Location: The Willow School, 10 Corey Road, Cumberland, Maine 04021
Employment Type: Seasonal, Full-time and Part-Time

About The Willow School:
The Willow School is a nature-based Montessori program that emphasizes exploration, creativity, and connection to nature. During the summer, our preschool camp program offers a fun, engaging, and nurturing environment where young children can learn and play through themed activities and outdoor adventures.

Position Summary:
We are seeking enthusiastic and caring Summer Camp Counselors to join our preschool camp team. Counselors will lead small groups of preschool-age children in age-appropriate activities designed to foster creativity, social-emotional growth, and a love of the outdoors.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Activity Leadership: Plan and lead engaging activities, including arts and crafts, games, nature exploration, music, and storytelling.

  • Outdoor Play: Supervise and encourage outdoor activities, ensuring children’s safety while exploring the natural environment.

  • Child Supervision: Provide attentive care to preschool-age children, maintaining a safe, welcoming, and inclusive camp atmosphere.

  • Behavior Management: Use positive reinforcement and redirection to manage group dynamics and promote cooperative play.

  • Team Collaboration: Work closely with fellow counselors, teachers, and staff to coordinate activities and provide seamless transitions between scheduled events.

  • Parent Communication: Greet families during drop-off and pick-up times and provide brief updates on their child's day as needed.

Qualifications:

  • A passion for working with young children and a commitment to their well-being and growth.

  • Previous experience working with preschool-age children, preferably in a camp, school, or childcare setting.

  • Strong communication and teamwork skills.

  • Creativity, enthusiasm, and a love for the outdoors.

  • CPR and First Aid Certification (or willingness to obtain upon hire).

  • Early Childhood Education (ECE) coursework or training is a plus but not required.

Physical Demands:

  • Ability to engage in active play and outdoor exploration in various weather conditions.

  • Ability to lift up to 40 pounds and perform tasks associated with caring for young children, such as bending, kneeling, and standing for extended periods.

Schedule:

  • Seasonal position during the summer months.

  • Full-time hours, Monday through Friday, with occasional additional hours for planning or special events.

Compensation & Benefits:

  • Competitive hourly rate.

  • Opportunities for professional development.

  • Supportive and fun work environment.

How to Apply:
Interested candidates are encouraged to submit their resume and a brief cover letter outlining their experience working with preschool-age children and interest in the position to jenny@willowschoolcumberland.com.

The Willow School is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion in the workplace.