Assists parents in the provision of ongoing care and supervision for babies and children, usually in the child's home.

Assists in the preparation of materials and equipment for children's education and recreational activities; manages children's behaviour and guides children's social development; prepares and conducts activities for children; entertains children by reading and playing games; supervises children in recreational activities; supervises the daily routine of children; supervises the hygiene of children.

• Works indoors and outdoors within a private home.
• Usually works in adequately heated and ventilated workspaces, which at times may be noisy and/or dirty depending on the children and the activities being undertaken.

• Sedentary to light with occasional medium physical demand.
• Frequently stands and walks about the facility when monitoring, caring for and interacting with children.
• Sits frequently when reading stories to children, playing certain games and updating children’s records.
• Stretching up and reaching across may be required when interacting with children.
• Bending squatting, crouching and kneeling is likely to be occasionally required when communicating with children.
• Twisting of the body or neck may be required but is not a significant requirement in this role.
• Contact with skin irritants or water is likely on an occasional basis.
• Lifting, carrying and holding is likely to be occasionally required when caring for children.
• Repetitive movement of the hands may be required occasionally.
• Driving may be required occasionally but is not a significant component of the job.
• Use of hand-held objects/materials will include children’s toys, books, play equipment, nappies and cleaning products and computers for record keeping.
• Mental skills necessary include assessment, decision-making and good communication skills.

A New Zealand Register Level 5 or 6 qualification or at least three years relevant experience (ANZSCO Skill Level 4). In some instances particular experience and/or on-the-job training may be required. For entry-level positions on-the-job training may be all that is necessary.

There are opportunities for flexibility of movement.