Recreation Instructor - Summer Day Camp

As a Recreation Instructor at the City of Fort Worth, your primary responsibilities include supervising children during various summer camp activities, developing weekly lesson plans, facilitating classes in a variety of recreational and educational programs, enforcing safety standards, and assisting with daily camp operations. You will play a crucial role in mentoring young staff, ensuring that every child has a fun, safe, and enriching experience during camp.

To apply for the Recreation Instructor position at Fort Worth Park & Recreation, candidates must possess a High School Diploma or GED and have at least six months of experience in recreational, educational, cultural, or fitness programs. Preferred qualifications include over a year of experience working with children, ideally with prior coaching or teaching experience, making you well-prepared to lead diverse activities.

The Recreation Instructor position operates with varied hours during the camp season. Orientation is set for June 2-6, and the Camp Fort Worth Program runs from June 9 through August 1, operating between 7:30 a.m. and 6:00 p.m. The Mobile Recreation Program follows a schedule from June 9 to July 25, offered from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Expect a maximum of 40 hours of work weekly.

The Recreation Instructor role at the City of Fort Worth provides a rewarding experience with an additional incentive: Completion of Assignment Pay. You can earn up to $300 based on your attendance and the number of days worked during your assignment, giving you motivation to engage fully throughout the Camp Fort Worth and Mobile Recreation Programs.

An ideal Recreation Instructor at Fort Worth Park & Recreation should possess enthusiasm, creativity, and experience working with children. Strong interpersonal skills, adaptability to fast-paced environments, and a commitment to child safety and well-being are crucial. Being personable and approachable will help you effectively mentor young staff and engage with kids during fun activities.

To engage children in recreational activities, I incorporate fun and interactive methods, ensuring activities cater to various interests. I would encourage participation by creating a supportive environment, using music, and integrating games that foster teamwork and creativity. Additionally, by asking for their input on choices, I can make them feel valued and integral to the fun.

I have extensive experience working with children in various settings, including previous camps, coaching, and educational programs. I adapt my approach to suit different age groups, ensuring activities are age-appropriate and that each child feels included. Building relationships based on trust is key, allowing me to engage them effectively.

Ensuring safety during activities involves establishing clear rules, conducting pre-activity briefings, and closely monitoring children's behavior. I emphasize instruction on equipment use, run drills for emergency procedures, and ensure all activities are age-appropriate while supervising continuously so that each child feels secure and supported.

To handle conflicts among children, I would intervene calmly, listen to both sides, and encourage communication. I remind them of camp rules and emphasize the importance of respect and teamwork. Guiding them toward a constructive resolution helps develop their social skills and reinforces positive behavior.

If a child is hesitant to participate, I would first try to understand their reasons and offer encouragement. I might suggest alternative activities that align more closely with their interests. It’s important to create a welcoming environment where they feel comfortable exploring new things at their own pace.

I keep activities fresh and exciting by regularly introducing new games, themes, and educational material to maintain interest. By incorporating feedback from participants about what they enjoy, I can tailor activities accordingly. Rotating activities helps prevent monotony and keeps the camp experience vibrant and engaging.

Promoting teamwork involves designing cooperative games and group challenges that require collaboration. I emphasize the importance of communication and support during these activities, celebrating teamwork successes and fostering an atmosphere where every child contributes and feels valued within the team.

My approach to lesson planning includes outlining clear objectives based on children's interests and educational needs. I ensure that each lesson incorporates a variety of engaging elements, such as hands-on activities and discussions, along with flexibility to adapt plans as needed based on the group's energy and responsiveness.

Monitoring progress involves regular one-on-one interactions and observational assessments during activities. I take notes on participation, engagement levels, and social skills displayed, enabling me to provide targeted support and encouragement to foster their development in a nurturing environment.

I believe I’m a suitable candidate for this position due to my passion for working with children, my relevant experience in recreational activities, and my enthusiasm for creating dynamic, educational programs. My adaptability, positive attitude, and commitment to providing a safe environment align perfectly with the values of Fort Worth Park & Recreation.