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Recreation Intern Jobs in Delaware (NOW HIRING)

Recreation Intern information

What is a recreation intern?

Recreation Interns are students or recent graduates who work under the supervision of recreation professionals to gain practical experience in organizing, planning, and leading recreational programs and activities. They assist with tasks such as event planning, activity coordination, community outreach, and facility management in settings like parks, community centers, or camps. The role provides hands-on learning opportunities and helps interns develop skills needed for a career in recreation or related fields.

What is the difference between Recreation Intern vs Recreation Coordinator?

AspectRecreation InternRecreation Coordinator
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or ongoing college coursework; some certifications may be preferredBachelor's degree in recreation, leisure studies, or related field; certifications like CPR/First Aid often required
Work EnvironmentAssists in recreational programs, often in parks, community centers, or sports facilitiesManages and oversees recreational programs, staff, and facilities in similar settings
Employer & Industry UsageUsed by parks departments, community centers, and recreational organizations for entry-level rolesUsed for supervisory roles in similar organizations, involving program planning and staff management

The main difference between a Recreation Intern and a Recreation Coordinator lies in experience and responsibilities. Interns typically assist with programs and gain experience, while Coordinators oversee and manage recreational activities and staff. Both roles are vital in community recreation settings, but the Coordinator position requires more experience and often a relevant degree.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a recreation intern, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Recreation Intern, you generally need coursework or a degree in recreation, physical education, or a related field, along with basic knowledge of program planning and implementation. Familiarity with scheduling software, Microsoft Office, and sometimes CPR/First Aid certification is typically required. Strong interpersonal skills, creativity, and adaptability help you effectively engage participants and manage group dynamics. These skills are crucial for delivering safe, enjoyable, and well-organized recreational activities that meet community needs.

What kinds of projects or responsibilities can a recreation intern expect to handle during their internship?

As a Recreation Intern, you can expect to work on a variety of projects that support the planning, coordination, and delivery of recreational programs and community events. Typical responsibilities might include assisting with event setup and logistics, helping to develop activity schedules, supporting participant engagement, and collaborating with staff to evaluate program success. Interns often gain hands-on experience in both administrative and direct-service capacities, making this role a valuable stepping stone for a career in recreation or community services.
What are the most commonly searched types of Recreation jobs in Delaware? The most popular types of Recreation jobs in Delaware are:
What job categories do people searching Recreation Intern jobs in Delaware look for? The top searched job categories for Recreation Intern jobs in Delaware are:
Infographic showing various Recreation Intern job openings in Delaware as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 70% Full Time, 22% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution.

School Age Site Intern- Dover YMCA Family Location

YMCA of Delaware

Dover, DE • On-site

$15 - $15.50/hr

Part-time

Medical, Retirement

Posted 14 days ago


Job description

Our Promise:

Ensure every youth and teen we serve is on a pathway to success
Improve the health and wellbeing of every individual and family we serve
Unite communities and inspire service to others

Benefits & Perks:

12% Employer-Funded Retirement Plan upon meeting eligibility
Learning and development workshops
Career advancement opportunities
Staff Discounts on Programs & Services and more!

Rate of pay: $15.00 – $15.50. Final compensation is based on factors such as skills, qualifications, and experience.

The School Age Intern must always be under the direct observation of at least a School Age Assistant and may not be alone with children except as allowed by the Delacare Regulations.

Essential Responsibilities

  • Supervise the children, group, and all activities as assigned while exhibiting safe, healthy, developmentally appropriate childcare practices.
  • Provide daily care for children including feeding and supporting social/emotional needs.
  • Encourage, engage, and support children in all classroom activities including instructional times, mealtimes, transitions, and gross motor activities.
  • Implement positive behavior management techniques.
  • Assist in planning, implementing and actively participate in daily age-appropriate classroom activities to ensure all children are provided an opportunity to learn.
  • Assist in observing children and documenting their progress and development.
  • Communicate effectively with co-workers, branch administration, and parents to develop & maintain positive relationships that encourage collaboration, consistency and increase parent participation.
  • Ensure the facility and all equipment is clean, well-maintained, and safe on a daily basis.
  • Complete and maintain required program documentation including, but not limited to, attendance, meal counts, and daily parent communication.
  • Attend and actively participate in family nights, program activities, staff meetings, and ongoing professional development trainings.

Minimum Qualifications

  • Education and Experience: To meet licensing requirements, the School Age Intern must be at least 16 years of age and must meet one of the following qualifications:
    1. Option 1: Successful completion of three college or university credits from a regionally accredited college or university in recreation, elementary education, school-age care or school-age administration.
    2. Option 2: Successful completion of at least 15-clock-hours of quality-assured training in school-age care.
  • Must be at least four years older than any child in his or her direct care.
  • Complete a physical & tuberculosis screening and provide a physician’s documentation of both within 30 days of hire.
  • Successful completion of a criminal history, child abuse & adult abuse background check as required by the State of Delaware.
  • Proficient active listening skills to understand and adapt to the various needs of children and parents.
  • Patience and compassion suitable for working with young children.
  • Ability to provide activities for children that encourage healthy development.
  • Ability to exercise control and maintain classroom discipline.
  • Ability to provide a supportive and caring environment for children.
  • Be mentally and physically capable of caring for a large group of children alone in a classroom.
  • Strong interpersonal and communication skills and the ability to work effectively with a wide range of constituencies in a diverse community.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Prior experience working or volunteering with youth in a group setting.
  • Develop positive, authentic relationships with people from different backgrounds.
  • Flexible and willing to accommodate the needs of the early childhood community and staff team.
  • Ability to develop and present educational programs and/or workshops.
  • Ability to persuade and influence others.
  • Knowledge of early childhood education programs and techniques.
  • Knowledge of child development theory and practice.
  • Have an awareness of the unique needs of young children and have appropriate expectations of their abilities.
  • Preference will be given to candidates who can work either 5 mornings, 5 afternoons or both to ensure continuity of care for our students.

The YMCA of Delaware is an equal opportunity employer.  The Y maintains a work environment in which staff are treated fairly and with respect and in which discrimination of any kind will not be tolerated.  In accordance with federal, state and local laws, we recruit,  hire, promote and evaluate all applicants and staff without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, ancestry, familial status, marital status, sexual orientation or preference, gender identity or expression, citizenship status, disability, veteran or military status, domestic or sexual violence victim status or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. Unlawful discrimination will not be a factor in any employment decision.