Children’s Entertainment Program Coordinator

Career Guide
Plans and runs fun, safe activities and events for kids at venues like resorts, attractions, camps, or community centers. Coordinates schedules, staff, and supplies; oversees check-in/out and safety; and communicates with parents while tracking attendance and program outcomes.

Key Responsibilities

  • Plan and schedule age-appropriate activities and events
  • Coordinate staff, counselors, and volunteers for programs
  • Oversee child safety, check-in/out, and compliance procedures
  • Manage budgets, supplies, and vendor contracts
  • Communicate with parents/guardians and handle inquiries
  • Promote programs via calendars, flyers, and social media
  • Track attendance, feedback, and report program outcomes
  • Liaise with venue operations, security, and maintenance

Career Progression

Can Lead To
Youth Programs Manager
Recreation Program Manager
Events Manager (Family/Community)
Transition Opportunities
Event Planner
Community Outreach Coordinator
Museum or Library Children's Programs Specialist
Guest Experience Manager (Attractions/Resorts)

Common Skill Gaps

Often Missing Skills
Child behavior management and supervisionYouth safety, risk assessment, and incident responseAge-appropriate activity design and facilitationOnsite event logistics and crowd flow management
Development SuggestionsComplete pediatric CPR/First Aid and state Mandated Reporter training; volunteer to plan and run children’s events at a community center, museum, or YMCA to practice supervision and logistics.

Salary & Demand

Median Salary Range
Entry Level$35,000-$42,000
Mid Level$43,000-$55,000
Senior Level$56,000-$68,000
Growth Trend
growing: Rebound in youth programs at attractions, resorts, camps, and municipalities

Companies Hiring

Major Employers
Walt Disney Parks & ResortsGreat Wolf LodgeYMCA
Industry Sectors
Hospitality & LeisureEntertainment & AttractionsNon-Profit & Youth Services

Recommended Next Steps

1
Earn pediatric CPR/First Aid and complete required background checks/mandated reporter training in your state
2
Take an events or recreation programming course (community college or NRPA/ILEA workshops) and build a simple program run-of-show portfolio
3
Shadow a local youth program coordinator and lead a small-scale kids activity to demonstrate safety, logistics, and parent communication