Also, communicating with parents of diverse backgrounds about their children's needs, and their child-rearing methods and expectations for their children, can prevent conflicts. It can also help staff better appreciate diversity. Since the entire community feels the impact of youth self-care, establishing an advisory council that includes local leaders is useful. Community members can also serve as tutors, mentors, and speakers for special programs. Each program usually has at least one director and several counselors.
Staff can consist of credentialed teachers, school aides, college students, and community members.
Some funders require staff to be certified by a state agency and to have completed special courses in child development, school-age care, or recreation. Bilingual staff can be helpful. Strong interpersonal, communication, and organizational skills. Respect for and enjoyment of children. Appreciation of children's individual needs, differences, and diversity.