Anganwadi Helper is a position in India, typically found under the Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS) program, which is a government initiative aimed at improving child health, nutrition, and education. Anganwadi Helpers work in local Anganwadi centers, primarily assisting in the day-to-day functions of early childhood care and education.
Job Responsibilities:
- Assisting in Child Care: Anganwadi helpers look after children, ensuring their safety and well-being. They assist in feeding children, organizing play activities, and promoting basic health and hygiene practices.
- Supporting Educational Activities: Helpers assist Anganwadi workers in implementing preschool education programs for young children (typically 3-6 years old). This may include organizing and conducting simple educational activities and games.
- Nutrition Assistance: They help in the preparation and distribution of supplementary nutrition (like mid-day meals) to children, pregnant women, and lactating mothers in the community.
- Record Maintenance: Assist in maintaining records of the children, pregnant women, and mothers in the area. They may also help in filling out reports related to the beneficiaries, including their health and nutrition status.
- Community Engagement: Anganwadi helpers often interact with parents and the community to spread awareness about child development, vaccination programs, and health-related issues.
- Health and Hygiene: Ensuring cleanliness of the Anganwadi center and educating children and caregivers on hygiene practices like handwashing and sanitation.
Eligibility Criteria:
- Educational Qualification: Generally, candidates need to have completed at least 8th grade (in some regions, it may require a higher level of education).
- Age: Applicants are typically required to be between 18-44 years old, though this can vary by state.
- Experience: While prior experience may not always be required, some Anganwadi centers prefer candidates with previous work experience in child care, teaching, or community services.
- Residence: The applicant must generally be a local resident of the area where the Anganwadi center is located.
Skills Needed:
- Patience and Compassion: As this role involves working with young children, it’s crucial to be patient and caring.
- Communication Skills: Ability to communicate effectively with children, parents, and community members.
- Basic Health Knowledge: Some knowledge of basic health, nutrition, and hygiene practices.
- Organization Skills: Ability to assist in organizing activities and manage time efficiently.
Salary and Benefits:
The salary of an Anganwadi Helper varies depending on the state or district but is generally modest. It typically ranges between ₹3,000 to ₹8,000 per month. Some additional benefits may include:
- Health insurance (depending on the state)
- Opportunity for skill development and training
- Paid holidays (including national and state holidays)
How to Apply:
- Notification: Government releases notifications for Anganwadi Helper recruitment through local newspapers or the official website of the respective State’s Department of Women and Child Development.
- Application Process: Applications are usually submitted offline by filling out forms at the local Anganwadi center or online, depending on the specific recruitment process.
- Selection: Candidates are typically selected based on merit, including educational qualification, experience, and possibly an interview or written test (varies by state).