Childcare center workers: Salary, career path, job outlook, education and more
Childcare center workers work in teams in childcare centers including programs that offer Head Start and Early Head Start. They often work with preschool teachers and teacher assistants to teach children through a structured curriculum. They prepare daily and long-term schedules of activities to stimulate and educate the children in their care. They also monitor and keep records of the childrens progress.
- Education Required
- Childcare workers must meet education and training requirements, which vary by state. Some states require these workers to have a high school diploma or equivalent, but many states do not have any education requirements for entry-level positions. However, workers with postsecondary education or an early childhood education credential may be qualified for higher level positions.
- Training Required
- Many states and employers require providers to complete some training before beginning work. Also, many states require staff in childcare centers to complete a minimum number of hours of training annually. Training may include information about basic care of babies, such as how to warm a bottle, and customer-service skills.
- Job Outlook
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The projected percent change in employment from 2016 to 2026: 7% (As fast as average)
(The average growth rate for all occupations is 7 percent.) - Advancement
- Childcare workers may advance to become apreschool or childcare center director with a couple years of experience and a bachelors degree.
- Licenses/Certifications
- Many states require childcare centers, including those in private homes, to be licensed. To qualify for licensure, staff must pass a background check, have a complete record of immunizations, and meet a minimum training requirement. Some states require staff to have certifications in cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and first aid.
- Median pay: How much do Childcare Workers make?
- $21,170 Annual Salary
- $10.18 per hour
Careers for Childcare Workers
- Au pairs
- Babysitters
- Before and after school daycare workers
- Child caregivers
- Childcare aides
- Childcare attendants
- Childcare providers
- Day care attendants
- Day care workers
- Daycare aides
- Daycare providers
- Family childcare providers
- Governesses
- Nannies
- Nursery day care workers