Lead Playful Discoveries, Pre-K, Counselor

Who We Are

At DEAN Adventure Camps, we create life-changing opportunities for young people to discover their passions, explore endless possibilities, achieve meaningful goals, and navigate thrilling adventures—all while developing character and skills that last a lifetime.

Guided by our core values of Compassion, Trust, Growth, and Creativity, we foster an environment where learning, discovery, and personal development thrive. Our vision is to inspire generations of resilient, compassionate, and confident individuals who contribute positively to their communities and the world.

We operate across DC, MD, NJ, PA, and VA, offering all-inclusive programs that make summer exciting for children and easy for families. Learn more: DEAN Adventure Camps.

What You’ll Do

As a Lead Playful Discoveries Counselor, you’ll create a safe, calm, and engaging environment where children build confidence, curiosity, and foundational social skills through movement, art, sensory play, imaginative exploration, and early STEM experiences.Responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

• Leading circle time, songs, and story activities that foster early literacy and group connection.
• Guiding sensory play, art, movement, and simple STEAM activities that encourage curiosity and hands-on exploration.
• ​​Supporting campers’ independence through guided choice, exploration, and routine-based structure
• Balancing predictable routines with flexibility to meet campers’ emotional and developmental needs (e.g., meals, rest time, and bathroom breaks), while also supporting impromptu activities and safe group movement around campus.
• Using positive behavior guidance such as redirection, modeling, and positive reinforcement to manage challenges, de-escalate conflicts, and encourage cooperation.
• Foster empathy, collaboration, and communication through shared play experiences
• Executing lesson plans according to DEAN Adventure Camps' set curricula.
• Reinforcing a welcoming space that celebrates diversity and inclusion.
• Supporting the Site Director in operating your designated program, such as: attendance reporting, supply management, and documenting incidents.
• Partnering with Assistant Counselors and CITs to ensure individualized attention and small-group supervision.

What Makes You a Great Fit

As a Lead Playful Discoveries Counselor, you must be able to teach and display technical knowledge associated with the following subject:

• Pre-K
  • Early Childhood Expertise – Understanding of developmental milestones for ages 3–5 and ability to create age-appropriate lessons and routines.
  • Classroom & Behavior Management Skills – Experienced in group management, redirection strategies, and maintaining a calm, structured environment tailored to early childhood.
  • Patient & Empathetic – You meet children where they are, with warmth and encouragement.
  • Creative Educator – Skilled at turning play into learning with engaging activities in art, movement, and exploration.
  • Sensory Play & Exploration – Ability to create and facilitate activities using different textures, colors, and materials.
  • Pre-K Crafting & Construction – Knowledge of safe and engaging projects for young learners, including cutting, gluing, and assembling.
• Problem-Solver – You think on your feet, helping counselors and campers overcome obstacles quickly and calmly.
• Team Player – You excel at mentoring Assistant and Junior Counselors through strong leadership and communication. You are comfortable managing CITs.

Schedule and Requirements

• Full on-site availability during the summer: June–August, Monday–Friday
  • Hours: Monday–Friday 8:30am–3:30pm daily, *8am Mondays 
  • Ability to commute to both:
    • 1301 Potomac School Rd, McLean, VA 22101
    • 3229 Sleepy Hollow Rd, Falls Church, VA 22042
• Must be at least 21 years old.
• Must be up to date on all immunizations and willing to provide emergency health information upon hire.
• Ability to lift 50 lbs, respond quickly to emergencies, and work in an active, outdoor environment.
• Must have valid First Aid & CPR certification.

Perks and Benefits

• Pay range: $21-24/hr – exact rate is determined by state minimum and experience.
• FLSA Status: This is a seasonal full-time, exempt position under the FLSA.

• Paid training: remote training on: including safety, DEI, classroom management, and more + in-person staff training the weekend prior to camp; please note that training is paid at state minimum wage, or $12/hr, whichever is higher.

• All required background checks and certifications fully reimbursed.
• Summer Bonus: Earn an additional $40 per week for working six or more weeks with no absences.
• Referral Bonus: Earn $50 per hired referral, with no referral limits.
• Daily perks: Free snacks, coffee, and parking + Monday breakfast.
• Employee discounts on camp rates for family members, outdoor gear, art supplies, electronics, and more.
• Career growth: Gain resume-building experience, letters of recommendation, and networking opportunities.

Equal Opportunity Employment Statement

DEAN Adventure Camps is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes applications from diverse candidates. Hiring decisions are based on a candidate’s qualifications as they relate to the position’s requirements and are made without regard to race, sex, national origin, color, age, disability, veteran status, pregnancy, sexual orientation, religion, or any other category protected by applicable law.

Join our team and make a difference this summer! Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis — apply early to secure your spot.