Position Summary: The Early Childhood Special Needs Social Worker provides comprehensive social work services to children with special needs and their families within an early childhood education setting. This role involves collaborating with educators, parents, and external service providers to support the development and well-being of children with diverse needs, ensuring they receive the appropriate resources and interventions. This position will also include creating and maintaining relationships with young families in the community and creating programs and engagement opportunities to meet their needs.
Key Responsibilities:
1. Assessment and Evaluation:
o Conduct initial and ongoing assessments of children with special needs.
o Develop individualized service plans based on assessments, in collaboration with families and educational staff.
o Monitor and evaluate the progress of children, adjusting plans as necessary.
2. Intervention and Support:
o Provide direct support and intervention services to children, including behavioral management, social skills training, and emotional support.
o Offer support to families, helping them navigate services and advocate for their children's needs.
o Facilitate support groups for parents and caregivers.
3. Collaboration and Coordination:
o Work closely with teachers, administrators, and other staff to integrate services into the educational environment.
o Coordinate with external agencies, such as healthcare providers, therapists, and social service organizations, to ensure comprehensive care.
o Participate in multidisciplinary team meetings to discuss and plan for the needs of children.
4. Education and Training:
o Provide training and resources to staff on topics related to special needs and inclusive practices.
o Educate families on special education rights, available resources, and strategies to support their children's development at home.
5. Documentation and Reporting:
o Maintain accurate and up-to-date records of assessments, service plans, and interventions.
o Prepare reports for internal use and compliance with external regulations and funding requirements.
6. Family Engagement
· Creating and maintaining relationships with young families inside and outside of the MIYJCC
· Create programming and services, and make families feel welcome and engaged in the Mid Island Y JCC by promoting an environment of support and friendship within the community
· Generate opportunities to gather by organizing small- and large-scale events, including but not limited to parent and child classes; Shabbat dinners; holiday gatherings; pop-up play dates in our playgrounds, pool, and gym; open gym and pool time for families
Qualifications:
· Education: Master’s degree in Social Work (MSW) from an accredited institution.
· Licensure: Licensed Masters Social Worker (LMSW) or equivalent state licensure.
· Experience: Minimum of 3-5 years of experience working with young children with special needs and their families.
· Skills:
o Strong assessment and diagnostic skills.
o Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
o Ability to work collaboratively with a multidisciplinary team.
o Knowledge of early childhood development and special education laws and regulations.
o Crisis intervention and conflict resolution skills.
o Cultural competence and sensitivity to diverse family backgrounds.
Physical Requirements:
· Ability to perform duties in a variety of settings, including classroom environments and community locations.
· May require occasional lifting and physical interaction with children.
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $50,000.00 - $55,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- 403(b)
- Dental insurance
- Health insurance
- Life insurance
- Paid time off
- Vision insurance
Schedule:
- 8 hour shift
- Day shift
- Monday to Friday
- No weekends
License/Certification:
- Driver's License (Preferred)
Ability to Commute:
- Plainview, NY 11803 (Required)
Ability to Relocate:
- Plainview, NY 11803: Relocate before starting work (Required)
Work Location: In person