VOLUNTEER PURPOSE The role of PlayConnect Volunteer is to support the PlayConnect playgroup program. The volunteer will report to and support the PlayConnect Facilitator to facilitate child-related play activities and support families/care givers.

VOLUNTEER FUNCTIONS The role requires the volunteer to support the PlayConnect facilitator.
This may include: • Setting up and cleaning up the children's play environment and playgroup activities • Creating a welcoming and safe environment for children and care givers • Engaging with children and adults in the playgroups • Assisting in the supervision of activities of the children, making sure of children’s safety at all times • Providing support to playgroup participants to engage in the playgroup experiences, encouraging parent/care giver participation in play and parent-child interaction • Completing administration tasks (e.g., recording attendance, completion of forms)

OTHER FUNCTIONS AND RESPONSIBILITIES Volunteers may have the ability to: • Interact with each child in a warm and friendly way • Guide children's behaviour in a positive way • Initiate and maintain respectful communication with each child and their family • Respect each child's background and abilities • Treat all children equitably • Communicate effectively to promote respect and professional teamwork • Demonstrate commitment to Child Safety

VOLUNTEER SKILLS AND KNOWLEDGE It would be valuable for volunteers to bring the following skills and attributes to this role:

• the ability to build rapport with children and families • an understanding of the importance of strong relationships within a family • good communication and interpersonal skills • demonstrated positive values of accountability, respect, teamwork and reliability • ability to relate to and communicate with people from culturally and economically diverse backgrounds • sound knowledge of the value of play • ability to remain objective and keep all information concerning participants strictly confidential • knowledge of positive behaviour support strategies • capacity to commit to a minimum of two hours a week for a minimum of six months