The Play Project is a small organization based in Whatcom County offering play-based, outdoor programs for kids. At the Play Project, building relationship is at the heart of what we offer — relationship to one’s self, to each other, and to the world around us. On any day we are likely to do some combination of the following: hike, run, dig, climb on rocks or logs, watch clouds, tell and read stories, bushwhack, build shelters, make art, explore new trails, play group games, rest, problem solve, try something new, build trust and connection with each other, and learn about the plants and critters we encounter along our way.

The Play Project is seeking one co-facilitator for an entirely outdoor summer program for kids ages four to eight years. The position is from early June to early August 2021, with the possibility of extension into the Fall for interested candidates. The candidate can expect 5-15 program prep hours in the weeks before the start of the program on June 21. The bulk of the position is for an estimated 12-25 hours per week, Monday-Thursday, ~9:30am-3:30pm, June 21 – August 5. Number of days worked per week is flexible based on arrangements with the other 2 co-facilitators and the successful applicant’s desired hours.

Co-Facilitator duties include:

• Prep and planning for outdoor summer programs
• Leading or co-leading morning and afternoon check-ins
• Leading and co-leading engaging games, adventures, and activities (could involve bushwhacking, mud, rain, rocky surfaces)
• Setting gentle, but firm boundaries as needed
• Daily collaboration and communication with other co-facilitator, including daily debriefings
• Supporting kids to find their own boundaries in outdoor exploration, safety and with each other
• Playing alongside kids in their play
• Reading out loud and telling stories

Our ideal candidate has some or all of the following skills and characteristics:

• Experience working with kids ages 3-8 and facilitating groups
• Excellent sense of humor and communication skills
• Creativity, imagination, and excitement to think, learn and play outside of the box
• Ability to lead in a “side by side” manner vs “top down”
• Ability to support the whole child in their experience as well as pay attention to the needs of the entire group
• Familiarity with attachment theory and emotional attunement
• First-Aid and CPR certified or willingness to become certified before start date
• Comfortable supporting children as they express their emotions
• Ability both to lead activities and to support the other co-facilitator in leading activities
• Willingness and ability to both directly engage with kids in their play and sit back and observe from a distance, allowing kids to play uninterrupted
• Comfortable spending ~6 hours a day outside in variable weather conditions
• Knowledge of the local flora and fauna
• Ability to arrive on time
• Humility and the willingness to mess up, not get it just right, and figure it out in the moment