Activity Programming Staff

Tamir After School Program and Sunday Respite Program

Reports to: Child and Youth Program Supervisor | Payrate: $24.42/hour

Position summary

Activity Programming Staff plan, prepare and lead engaging activities for children and youth with complex special needs in Tamir’s After School and Sunday Respite Programs. The role supports enjoyment, learning, social connection and independence through activities adapted to each participant’s interests, strengths and support needs. Staff are responsible for the full activity cycle, including planning, setup, instruction, cleanup and evaluation.

Key responsibilities

- Develop activity plans and schedules with the supervisor, balancing creative, physical, social and educational opportunities. Identify activity goals, required supplies, time needed and adaptations for participants.
- Plan and deliver arts and crafts, accessible science experiments, physical activities, cooperative games, social activities and basic academic support, including early literacy, numeracy and other foundational skills.
- Introduce additional activities based on personal interests, skills and passions, such as music, drama, cooking, gardening, LEGO projects or life skills, with supervisor approval and suitable adaptations.
- Prepare materials and set up activity areas before participants arrive. Check equipment, organize accessible workspaces and ensure supplies are ready for secure use.
- Provide clear instructions, demonstrations and encouragement. Break tasks into manageable steps and use visual supports, adapted materials and different ways to participate as needed.
- Offer meaningful choices and adjust activity pace, complexity and group size to reflect participants’ communication, sensory, mobility, attention and learning needs.
- Work closely with 1:1 support staff, activity leads and the supervisor so participants receive the support they need during activities and transitions.
- Clean and organize activity spaces,



sanitize shared materials as appropriate, store supplies safely and report damaged equipment or supply shortages.

Participant support and teamwork

- Create a welcoming environment that respects each participant’s dignity, culture and preferences. Encourage cooperation, positive relationships and participation without pressure.
- Follow individual support plans and Tamir procedures. Use agreed strategies to support regulation and transitions, and seek assistance from designated staff when needed.
- Assess activity risks and select suitable materials, tools and experiments. Consider allergies, sensory sensitivities and individual safety needs when planning and delivering activities.
- Maintain active supervision during activities and promptly report concerns, incidents or hazards through established channels.
- Record brief observations about participation, progress and adaptations. Share feedback with the team to improve future programming and communicate participant information only through approved channels.
- Attend planning meetings and required training, maintain confidentiality, and follow Tamir policies for participant safety, infection prevention and professional conduct.

Qualifications and skills

- Experience planning or leading activities for children or youth, with an ability to adapt instruction for participants with disabilities or complex support needs.
- At least one year of experience supporting children or youth, preferably in a group setting; relevant experience with developmental disabilities or complex support needs is preferred.
- Relevant education,



training or equivalent experience in recreation, education, special education, developmental services, child and youth care, early childhood education or a related field.
- Creativity, patience, strong organization and clear communication, with the ability to work collaboratively and respond flexibly when plans or participant needs change.
- Practical skills or enthusiasm in one or more activity areas, and a willingness to share those interests through accessible, age appropriate programming.
- Strong observation, problem-solving, communication, organization and teamwork skills; dependable, patient and flexible during changing routines.
- Willingness to complete Tamir’s required screening, orientation and training. First Aid and CPR certification, experience with visual communication supports, and bilingual English and French skills are assets.

Work schedule and expectations Scheduled work includes weekday after school respite (3pm-7pm) and/or Sunday respite (9am-3pm) sessions, according to program needs and assigned availability. Shifts include allocated time for planning, preparation, setup, cleanup and documentation. Activities may take place indoors, outdoors or on approved community outings. Staff must be able to participate in and facilitate activities with reasonable accommodation as needed.

Activity Programming Staff coordinate with designated support staff to deliver group activities and carry out participant support responsibilities assigned by the supervisor, consistent with their training and individual support plans.

Accommodations

Tamir is an equal opportunity employer and we value the importance of diversity, dignity and worth of every individual in the workplace. Tamir offers accommodation for applicants with disabilities in its recruitment processes. If you are contacted by Tamir regarding a job opportunity, please advise us prior to the interview if you require any accommodation

📌 Integration Aide (Ottawa)
🏢 Tamir Foundation
📍 Ottawa