After-School Program Aide Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In an era prioritizing education, the role of an after-school program aide has never been more crucial.

As our understanding of education extends beyond the classroom walls, the need for compassionate and skilled individuals who can nurture, guide, and safeguard our children’s after-school experiences grows.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from an after-school program aide?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the heart of this role,
• A school administrator carving out the perfect candidate,
• Or simply fascinated by the behind-the-scenes of after-school programs,

You’ve landed at the right spot.

Today, we present a customizable after-school program aide job description template, designed for easy posting on job boards or school career sites.

Let’s dive right in.

After-School Program Aide Duties and Responsibilities

After-School Program Aides provide valuable assistance and supervision in after-school programs, engaging students in a range of activities that enhance their learning, social skills, and personal development outside school hours.

They have the following duties and responsibilities:

• Assist in planning and implementing daily after-school program activities
• Supervise and engage children in age-appropriate activities
• Maintain a safe and positive environment for the children
• Help with homework and tutoring as needed
• Prepare and distribute snacks or meals following health and safety guidelines
• Ensure the cleanliness and orderliness of the facility
• Communicate effectively with parents about their child’s progress and behavior
• Participate in staff meetings and trainings
• Assist in maintaining accurate program records including incident reports, logbook documentation, and daily attendance
• Identify signs of emotional or developmental problems in children and bring them to parents’ or guardians’ attention
• Adhere to all program policies and procedures while upholding the code of conduct

 

After-School Program Aide Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are looking for a dedicated and enthusiastic After-School Program Aide to assist in providing a safe, caring and educational environment for children in our after-school program.

Responsibilities include supervising and guiding children, assisting with homework, planning and implementing educational activities, and communicating effectively with parents and school staff.

Our ideal candidate is experienced in child development, education, or a related field and has a passion for helping children grow and learn outside of the traditional classroom setting.

 

Responsibilities

• Assist in the planning and implementation of daily programs and activities
• Supervise children and ensure their safety and wellbeing
• Help children with homework and school assignments
• Develop and encourage age-appropriate learning and socialization to boost children’s development
• Communicate effectively with parents about daily activities and behaviors
• Assist with snack preparation and clean up
• Maintain a clean and safe environment
• Adhere to all safety and health regulations

 

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent
• Experience working with children in a school or after-school setting
• Basic knowledge of child development and educational activities
• First aid and CPR certified
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Patience and resilience with excellent problem-solving skills
• Ability to pass background check and drug screening

 

Benefits

• Health insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: After-School Program Aide
• Work Environment: School or community center setting. May require occasional weekend or evening hours.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the After-School Program Coordinator.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Part-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does an After-School Program Aide Do?

An After-School Program Aide typically works for schools, community centers or non-profit organizations.

They can also work independently as childcare providers.

Their role primarily involves assisting in the planning and implementation of activities that take place in the after-school program.

They help create an engaging, safe and positive environment for children outside of regular school hours.

Program Aides engage with children through various activities like helping with homework, implementing arts and crafts projects, facilitating games and physical activities, and promoting positive social interactions.

They are also responsible for ensuring the safety of the children, managing the children’s behavior, and providing proper guidance and supervision.

In some cases, they may also be required to communicate with parents or guardians about the child’s progress or any issues that may arise during the program.

An After-School Program Aide is not only a supervisor but also a mentor, teacher, and role model for the children in the program.

They play a key role in the social and emotional development of the children they work with.

 

After-School Program Aide Qualifications and Skills

An After-School Program Aide should have the skills and qualifications that align with your job description, such as:

• Strong communication skills to interact effectively with students, parents, and staff, explaining program rules, and discussing student progress.
• Patience and empathy to deal with students who may have different abilities and temperaments.
• Problem-solving skills to handle situations that may arise during the program such as conflicts between students or challenges in managing activities.
• Organizational skills to manage the program schedule, oversee activities, and ensure the safety of all participants.
• Basic knowledge of child development and educational methods to assist in planning and implementing appropriate activities.
• Physical stamina to actively engage with students during activities and to set up or clear up spaces for these activities.
• First aid and CPR certifications to handle any emergencies that may occur during the program.
• Interpersonal skills to build relationships with students, encouraging their participation and fostering a positive learning environment.

 

After-School Program Aide Experience Requirements

After-School Program Aides typically have experience in education or child care, often through volunteer work, internships, or part-time roles in similar settings.

A minimum of 1-2 years of experience working with children in a structured environment is usually required, but some organizations may hire entry-level candidates who have less professional experience, but have demonstrated responsibility and skill in child care situations.

Those with a background in education, social work, or related fields may be particularly desirable.

This experience can come from formal education, such as completing a degree in one of these fields, or from on-the-job experience in roles such as a Teacher’s Assistant, Child Care Worker, or Youth Counselor.

Candidates with more than 3 years of experience have often developed advanced skills in child supervision, program planning, and communication with parents and other stakeholders.

They may also have experience working with children with special needs or in high-stress situations.

Those with more than 5 years of experience in the field may be ready for roles with more responsibility, such as supervising other After-School Program Aides, or designing and overseeing new program initiatives.

This level of experience may also equip them to work effectively with a wider range of children, including those with challenging behaviors or complex needs.

 

After-School Program Aide Education and Training Requirements

After-School Program Aides typically have a high school diploma or equivalent.

However, some employers may prefer candidates with an associate’s or bachelor’s degree in education, child development, psychology, or a related field.

They are expected to have knowledge in child development and age-appropriate activities, and should be able to demonstrate skills in supervising and interacting with school-age children.

Many employers require After-School Program Aides to have previous experience in childcare, tutoring, or educational settings.

This can often be gained through internships, volunteer work, or in entry-level positions within childcare facilities.

Some states or employers may require certification in first aid and CPR.

In some cases, After-School Program Aides may also need to undergo training in child abuse prevention, crisis intervention, and emergency procedures.

Additional training or certification in special education can be beneficial for those working with children with special needs.

Continuing education workshops or courses on topics such as child behavior management, child psychology, and learning strategies can also be beneficial and may be required for maintaining certifications or licensures.

In all roles, After-School Program Aides should demonstrate patience, creativity, and a genuine interest in working with children.

 

After-School Program Aide Salary Expectations

An After-School Program Aide can expect to earn an average wage of $11.85 (USD) per hour.

However, the actual earnings can vary based on factors such as experience, location, and the organization for which they work.

 

After-School Program Aide Job Description FAQs

What skills does an After-School Program Aide need?

An After-School Program Aide should have excellent communication skills to effectively interact with children, parents, and colleagues.

They must be patient, empathetic, and have a strong interest in working with and helping children.

Strong organizational skills are required to plan and coordinate various activities.

They should also have basic first aid knowledge for emergencies.

 

Do After-School Program Aides need a degree?

While a degree is not strictly necessary, a background in education, child development, or related fields can be beneficial.

Most employers require a high school diploma or equivalent.

Experience working with children, such as in a volunteer, internship, or employment setting, is often preferred.

 

What should you look for in an After-School Program Aide resume?

Look for prior experience with children of the relevant age group, whether in a school, daycare, or similar environment.

Certifications in CPR or first aid can be advantageous.

The resume should also highlight any skills or activities that would be beneficial in an after-school program, such as art, sports, or tutoring.

 

What qualities make a good After-School Program Aide?

A good After-School Program Aide is patient, understanding, and able to handle difficult situations with calmness and maturity.

They should be enthusiastic, energetic, and able to engage children in a range of activities.

The ability to work well as part of a team is also important, as well as a genuine passion for children’s education and welfare.

 

How physically demanding is the role of an After-School Program Aide?

The role can be physically demanding as it often involves standing for long periods, moving around to oversee various activities, and sometimes lifting or moving equipment.

It may also involve outdoor activities, so a reasonable level of fitness can be beneficial.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve given you an in-depth look at what it truly means to be an After-School Program Aide.

Surprise!

It’s not just about supervising kids after school.

It’s about shaping the future, one student at a time.

With our definitive After-School Program Aide job description template and real-world examples, you’re ready to step into the field.

But why stop here?

Dig deeper with our job description generator. It’s your next move towards creating precise job listings or refining your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every interaction with a student contributes to their bigger journey.

Let’s shape that future. Together.

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