Boys and Girls Club InternAt — Boys & Girls Clubs of Garden Grove

The practicum student will take on an expanded role within the program that includes increased leadership responsibilities, support across multiple grade levels, family communication, and participation in site operations. This position is designed to provide hands-on experience in youth development, classroom management, and program organization.

Tasks:

Work with both lower and upper elementary students to support their academic and social development

• Supervise students during program activities and maintain a safe, structured, and positive environment
• Assist students with homework, promoting independence, engagement, and understanding
• Plan and implement educational and enrichment activities that support student learning
• Take on a lead role during designated activities, guiding students and supporting fellow staff members
• Apply and strengthen classroom management strategies with diverse age groups
• Communicate with parents during program interactions, providing updates on student progress, behavior, and participation
• Complete attendance for the entire site, ensuring accuracy and consistency in daily records
• Assist with operational and behind-the-scenes tasks that support the overall functioning of the program
• Collaborate with staff to maintain an organized and effective learning environment

Training:

Training for this practicum will be provided through on-site guidance and mentorship from supervisors and experienced staff members. The student will receive support in areas such as classroom management, activity planning, leadership development, and program procedures. Ongoing feedback will be given to help the student reflect on their performance, improve their skills, and continue growing professionally.

Overall, the learning outcomes of this practicum include increased leadership abilities, stronger classroom management skills, improved communication with families, and a deeper understanding of both instructional practices and program operations.

Learning Outcomes:

Through this practicum experience, the student will develop key skills related to education, leadership, and youth development. The student will gain hands-on experience working with both lower and upper elementary students, allowing them to understand developmental differences and apply appropriate support strategies for each age group. By taking on a lead role during activities, the student will strengthen their ability to guide groups, manage behavior, and create a structured and engaging learning environment.

The student will also develop professional communication skills through increased interaction with parents. This includes learning how to effectively share information about student progress, behavior, and participation in a clear and respectful manner. These experiences will help the student build confidence in working with families and understanding the importance of strong home-school connections.

In addition, the student will gain experience in program operations by learning how to complete attendance for the entire site and assisting with other behind-the-scenes responsibilities. This will provide a better understanding of how after-school programs are organized, managed, and maintained on a daily basis.