Lydia L. Gothro
Lacey,WA
Summary
Dedicated Lead Child and Youth Program Assistant with nearly 10 years of experience in Child and Youth Services (CYS). Known for being highly dependable, hardworking, and demonstrating strong leadership in early childhood settings. Skilled in creating a warm, safe, and inviting classroom environment that supports children’s social, emotional, and developmental growth across all domains.
Demonstrates thorough knowledge of CYS policies, procedures, and regulations, consistently ensuring compliance and high-quality care. Experienced in mentoring and supporting new staff, as well as assisting management with daily operations and supervising the classroom floor. Proficient in designing and implementing developmentally appropriate curriculum that meets the needs of diverse learners.
Strong communicator who builds positive relationships with children, families, and colleagues. Effectively communicates with parents regarding children’s daily progress, milestones, and any concerns. Experienced in resolving conflicts among children, staff, and families in a respectful and professional manner. Recognized for excellent work ethic, professionalism, and commitment to providing a safe, nurturing, and supportive environment for all children in care.
Overview
9
9
years of professional experience
Work History
Lead Child and Youth Program Assistant
DOD NAF
Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Washington
10.2025 - Current
- Developed educational programs tailored to diverse learning needs, fostering inclusive environments.
- Mentored junior staff, providing guidance on program implementation and best practices for child engagement and behavior management techniques.
- Created a list of needed supplies and materials for activities.
- Facilitated engaging activities promoting social skills and emotional development among children and youth.
- Implemented program schedules ensuring alignment with developmental goals and safety protocols.
- Delivered a high level of care, assistance, and supervision to children in compliance with CYS rules and policies.
- Boosted parent satisfaction through consistent communication regarding their child's progress and achievements.
- Communicated effectively with children, fellow staff members, and parents by utilizing active listening and interpersonal skills.
- Developed strong relationships with parents by providing timely feedback on their child's progress while addressing any concerns promptly.
- Strengthened language development by incorporating storytelling, music, and drama into daily lessons.
- Ensured adherence to health guidelines through proper food handling procedures during snack times or meal preparation activities.
- Collaborated with colleagues to develop age-appropriate programs that met the needs of diverse learners.
- Utilized positive reinforcement techniques to encourage appropriate behaviors among participants consistently.
- Implemented creative arts activities that encouraged self-expression while also developing fine motor skills.
- Conducted regular assessments of children's development, using results to inform individualized instruction strategies.
- Explained and enforced the rules and regulations of the CYS program.
- Assisted the supervisor by completing administrative and clerical tasks for the program.
- Assisted in planning and executing special events for families, fostering strong community connections.
- Facilitated physical activity sessions that promoted overall wellness among children of all ages and abilities.
- Ensured compliance with health, safety, and nutrition standards to maintain a secure and healthy environment for children and staff.
- Accurately documented attendance, incidents, and child development progress using CYMS, ensuring reliable records and compliance with program requirements.
- Supported children with special needs by providing individualized care and accommodations; experienced in administering medication in emergency situations.
Child and Youth Program Assistant
DOD NAF, Joint Base Lewis-McChord
Washington
01.2017 - 10.2025
- Provided safe, nurturing, and developmentally appropriate care for children ages 0–5, fostering their physical, social, emotional, and cognitive growth through intentional interactions and individualized support.
- Served as acting lead teacher in the lead’s absence approximately 50% of the time, effectively managing classroom operations, staff, and children’s daily routines.
- Mentored and trained new staff members by modeling best practices, guiding them through classroom routines, and supporting their understanding of child development and program standards.
- Designed, planned, and facilitated developmentally appropriate daily activities that promoted children’s holistic growth across all domains.
- Maintained consistent classroom routines to establish a structured, engaging, and supportive learning environment for all children.
- Built strong partnerships with parents and families by communicating children’s progress, developmental milestones, and daily activities on a regular basis.
- Ensured compliance with health, safety, and nutrition standards to maintain a secure and healthy environment for children and staff.
- Accurately documented attendance, incidents, and child development progress using CYMS, ensuring reliable records and compliance with program requirements.
- Supported children with special needs by providing individualized care and accommodations; experienced in administering medication in emergency situations.
- Managed classroom staff schedules, including coordinating breaks, planning periods, and Virtual Lab School (VLS) training for new team members, ensuring smooth operations and staff coverage.
Education
Associate in Applied Science- Transfer - Early Childhood Education
Pierce College
WA10-2025
Skills
- Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
- Parental involvement
- Organizational Skills
- Conflict Management
- Active Listening
- Collaborative and Teamwork
- Public Speaking
- Multicultural sensitivity
- Child assessment
- Curriculum planning
- Writing and verbal communication
- Reporting and documentation
Languages
English
Native or Bilingual
Timeline
Lead Child and Youth Program Assistant
DOD NAF
10.2025 - Current
Child and Youth Program Assistant
DOD NAF, Joint Base Lewis-McChord
01.2017 - 10.2025
Associate in Applied Science- Transfer - Early Childhood Education
Pierce College