Hiring another Playworker!

KOOP is looking for a special, magical person interested in working with children using a particular philosophy called playwork. Don't worry-- we'll train you and help you learn! Here's a basic job description.

You must believe that children are capable and competent and be able to truly let them lead in this context!

Job Title: Part-time Playworker

Reports to: KOOP Executive Director

Position Overview:

Creates open-ended, child-directed play opportunities for the Adventure Play After School, camp & community programs. Provides space, time, and materials for children to know themselves and their peers, and to explore through self-directed play. Collaborates with the Adventure Play (AP) Team regarding the children’s health and well-being.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Ability to create a climate that is conducive to free play - behavior that is personally directed, freely chosen, and intrinsically motivated.

• Demonstrate professionalism and best practices in playwork & willingness to train in this philosophy

• Offer creative ideas and materials to support a wide range of play types and opportunities.

• Provides an environment that is welcoming and safe for child-directed play.

• Maintain Adventure Playground, including restocking and organizing materials.

• Conduct reflection on play activities daily (written) & at weekly AP staff meetings.

• Perform regular risk assessments in collaboration with the AP Team.

Competencies & Attributes:

• Flexible, Adaptable, and Patient: On any given day, a playworker might help children build a fort, be involved in a water fight, observe play from a discrete distance, or clear out materials that aren’t being used. A playworker does not provide specific activities, but responds to children’s ideas and needs in a playful and non-judgmental manner.

• Ability to communicate and collaborate within a team: The playworker balances being deeply present for individual children “in the moment” while observing the play site as a whole. Communication with other playworkers and adult caregivers is essential. Willingness to learn and grow through the reflective process and professional development opportunities.

• Ability to separate widely held preconceptions around adult-child relationships, and children’s capacities.

• Excellent time management, ability to prioritize, and problem-solve independently.

• Ability to work outdoors in a variety of weather conditions

Education/Experience:

• Experience working with children, in formal or informal environments is preferred.

• Experience working on a team.