Position Overview
A recess aide’s work may be quite straightforward but it’s definitely not simple. As someone who has a lot of responsibility on his or her shoulders, a recess aide needs to be on his or her toes all the time.
Typically, a resource aide is expected to look after the needs of young students during lunchtime or when they are out in the playground.
Students’ safety and well-being are high on the priority list of recess aides which is why they need to be exceptionally well-versed in handling young students.
Position Requirements
The eligibility requirement to work as a recess aide is typically a high school diploma or a GED.
However, if you are also expected to double up as a teacher’s aide, you might need a degree in education or a related field.
Skills & Abilities
To be able to do justice to the role of a recess aide, it is important that you possess patience and an eye for trouble, so that you can handle situations in a prompt manner.
Some knowledge of CPR and First Aid might come in handy in case there is an on-campus emergency. You will need to be on your feet constantly as sitting down when children are eating and playing is certainly not an option!
Technically, the work of a recess aide is supervisory in nature. So if you have it in you to handle a large group of children outside the classroom, you may want to look at the following list of duties particular to a recess aide’s position:
Recess Aide Duties and Responsibilities
• Gather students and lead them to cafeterias during lunchtime in an organized manner.
• Ascertain that all students are properly seated on their designated benches and assist them in obtaining food trays from the counter.
• Supervise students as they eat their meals and instruct them on appropriate table manners.
• Establish and encourage an orderly means of purchasing meals and ensure that all meal tickets or lunch coupons are accounted for.
• Circulate among the tables to ensure that anyone who needs assistance is helped immediately.
• Maintain discipline during meal times and highlight or communicate any behavioral concerns to the lead teacher.
• Observe students who may not take interest in lunch and communicate the issue to the teacher.
• Instruct students in the proper disposal of trash and meal leftovers according to the school’s no wastage policy.
• Ensure that all students make a queue right after lunchtime, for an orderly transition back to class.
• Oversee students’ activities during play time and ensure that they are made aware of possible dangers of injury.
• Participate in outdoor games to encourage students in taking an active part in all outdoor activities.