Preschool Program Intern (Unpaid Internship)

Description

Position Summary

The Preschool Program Intern will support the City of Oxford’s Parks & Recreation Department in delivering high-quality early childhood programming for children ages 3–5. This internship provides hands-on experience working in a preschool-style recreational environment, assisting with program preparation, activity facilitation, child engagement, and administrative support. The intern will gain exposure to best practices in early childhood recreation, child development, and municipal program operations.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

•Assist staff with implementing daily preschool activities, including arts and crafts, sensory play, outdoor games, story time, and educational enrichment.

•Support classroom management by engaging with children, ensuring safety, and helping maintain a positive learning environment.

•Help prepare materials, set up activity stations, and clean up spaces after programming.

•Observe and model appropriate child guidance techniques under supervision.

•Assist with attendance tracking, program documentation, and communication to parents/guardians as directed.

•Participate in planning meetings and contribute ideas for activities and program enhancements.

•Follow all City of Oxford and Parks & Recreation Department policies, procedures, and safety standards.

•Perform other duties as assigned to support preschool programming.

Learning Objectives

This internship provides opportunities to:

•Develop practical experience in early childhood recreation and informal education.

•Gain understanding of child developmental stages and age-appropriate programming.

•Strengthen skills in communication, teamwork, leadership, and child engagement.

•Observe program planning and behind-the-scenes operations within a municipal recreation department.

•Build professional skills and resume experience relevant to education, childcare, social services, or recreation.

Qualifications Required:

•Interest in early childhood education, recreation, child development, or related fields.

•Ability to interact positively with young children in an active, play-based environment.

•Reliable, punctual, and able to maintain professional standards.

•Ability to pass a background check as required for working with minors.

Preferred (not required):

•Coursework or experience in education, recreation, child development, psychology, or similar fields.

•Experience working with preschool-age children.

•CPR/First Aid certification.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

•Strong communication and interpersonal skills.

•Patience, enthusiasm, and creativity in working with young children.

•Ability to follow direction and work collaboratively with staff.

•Willingness to learn and take initiative.

•Ability to lift up to 25 lbs and participate in active play.

Work Environment

Work takes place in indoor recreation facilities, classrooms, and occasional outdoor settings. The role involves standing, sitting on the floor, active movement, and frequent interaction with children.

Benefits to the Intern

•Hands-on experience in a municipal preschool recreation setting.

•Mentorship from experienced program staff.

•Documentation of hours for academic credit (if applicable).

•Opportunities to develop professional references.

The City of Oxford is an equal opportunity employer.