Afterschool Youth Development Coach (SEL & Movement Education) - Part Time

Position Overview

Kong Academy is hiring Afterschool Youth Development Coaches to lead and support SEL-focused, movement-based programs for children ages 5–12. This paid hands-on learning opportunity is ideal for students in Education, Kinesiology, Psychology, or Child & Family Studies, or related fields seeking field experience, mentorship, and professional certification while making a real difference in kids’ lives.

Organization Overview

Kong Academy is a Seattle-based education organization dedicated to helping children ages 5–12 develop social-emotional skills and physical confidence through purposeful play and movement. Our curriculum is grounded in the CASEL Framework for Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) and supported by research in education, kinesiology, psychology, neuroscience, and child development. We partner with schools and communities to create engaging environments where children practice self-awareness, self-management, positive relationship-building, social awareness, and responsible decision-making—all while learning together through play & movement.

Coaches Receive:

• Paid training and education in SEL development, classroom management, child behavior, and communication techniques
• Mentorship from experienced educators and youth-development leaders
• Applied field experience bridging academic coursework and practical instruction in youth development and education.
• Kong Academy Coaching Certification, verifying your applied competence you can include on your résumé.
• Career-path advancement: Opportunity to move into Lead Coach or Program Coordinator roles based on performance and commitment.
• Competitive compensation & benefits: $22-$37/hour + bonus opportunities, 401(k) match, flexible hours.

This position bridges theory and practice—preparing future educators, counselors, and coaches to teach, lead, and inspire through movement and play.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead or co-lead after-school sessions (children ages 5-12) using Kong Academy’s SEL-integrated movement curriculum.
• Facilitate group activities, SEL development, and reflective discussions.
• Create and maintain an inclusive, safe, engaging learning environment where children are encouraged to take healthy risks, collaborate, and grow.
• Communicate clearly and professionally with coworkers, parents and program management.
• Participate in paid training, mentorship, and ongoing professional development

Qualifications

• 1+ year experience working with children (teaching, coaching, mentoring, or recreation)
• Strong communication and leadership skills
• Enthusiasm for youth development, education, and active learning
• Background in parkour, gymnastics, martial arts, dance, team sports, or similar activities preferred
• Dependable, adaptable, and able to model professionalism and empathy in dynamic group environments
• Must pass a background check per Washington State’s Child and Adult Abuse Information Act (RCW 43.43.830–.845)
• Must be available to attend monthly staff training on the second Saturday of each month.

Compensation & Schedule

• Pay: $22–$37/hour + bonus opportunities
• Hours: ~10-20 hours/week, typically between 1–5 PM weekdays. Some weekends.
• Benefits: 401(k) match, flexible scheduling. 

Why Join Kong Academy

At Kong Academy, you’re not just taking a job—you’re joining a movement to help a generation discover what it means to be brave, responsible, kind, and connected through play. In a world where kids move less, fear more, and feel increasingly disconnected, you’ll make a real difference—helping them become physically and emotionally strong, because kids deserve the education they need to face and better the world.

Application Instructions

Apply on Handshake with your résumé and cover letter describing your experience working with children and your movement background.

Learn more about our mission at kongacademy.org.