Playworker, Parent-Child Program

We are seeking a compassionate, creative team of playworkers to join our Nests Caregiver and Me Program, a part-time, outdoor learning space for babies, toddlers, and young children and their caregivers.

Nests Playworkers support child-led exploration, protect the play space, welcome and orient caregivers, document learning, and help co-create a vibrant, consent-centered community with families and BNS staff. Ideal candidates bring experience with (or deep interest in) emergent, child-led learning, outdoor play, and strong interpersonal skills for working with both children and adults.

Nests meets across three locations: Edgerton Park (New Haven), Sleeping Giant (Hamden), and Alice Newton (Woodbridge). Each offering its own sensory-rich landscape for child-led exploration.

Open Roles

• Lead Playworker — Nests Caregiver and Me Program
• Volunteer Assistant Playworker — Nests Caregiver and Me Program
• Internship Playworker (for academic credit or not) — Nests Caregiver and Me Program

Schedule

• Part-time morning classes between 8–12 AM, with additional time for documentation and meetings
• Seasonal sessions (Autumn, Winter, Spring, Summer), 1–4 days/week depending on role
• Cohort size: typically 8–12 families, supported by one Lead and one or more assistants/interns
• Occasional support for seasonal gatherings or family events,, optional vacation programming such as Spring and Summer Camps

We Seek Individuals Who

• Believe play is a foundation for learning and relationship-building
• Have experience or interest in early childhood education, outdoor education, emergent learning, or playwork philosophy
  • Lead Playworker: significant early childhood experience (3+ years in supportive, developmental roles)
  • Volunteer/Intern: coursework, lived experience, or strong interest in early childhood and/or community care
• Commit to anti-racist, anti-bias, and consent-based education
• Physical ability and willingness to work outdoors in all weather (with appropriate gear)
• Patience, curiosity, and creativity in child-led environments
• Skills (or willingness to learn skills) in conflict transformation and restorative justice
• Legal authorization to work in the U.S. (for paid roles)

Strongly Desired

• Bilingual (Spanish/English or another language)
• Members of BIPOC communities are strongly encouraged to apply

Please send a short resume and cover letter to bravenatureschool@gmail.com