Childcare jobs are one of the most rewarding careers, as they allow you to help make a positive impact on the lives of children. Whether you are helping children get ready for school, coaching a sports team or teaching them how to follow their dreams, these positions offer a variety of benefits and opportunities for personal growth.
Become a Childcare Worker
To work in childcare, you typically need to have a high school diploma and experience working with young children. In some cases, you may need to have a formal education or certification in early childhood education and development. In some states, you must obtain a state license for the job.
Employers often hire childcare workers on an hourly basis and pay them based on their availability and the number of hours they work. Depending on your skills and qualifications, you may be able to find a position at a daycare center, a family home or a private preschool.
Recruit Employees for Your Childcare Facility
To hire child care workers, you must advertise your open positions to qualified candidates. This can be done through local job fairs, online forums, social media and other methods. You should also ask for recommendations from other teachers and employees at your childcare center.
Keep Your Career Boosted by Coursework and Volunteer Work
A well-rounded education can be an asset in a childcare career, especially when it includes coursework that is relevant to the field. Taking classes in subjects like child development, health and safety and nutrition can give you an edge over other candidates when applying for child care jobs.
You can also build up experience on your resume by volunteering with children in a childcare setting or through children’s ministries. These experiences will show potential employers that you’re interested in working with kids and are passionate about their wellbeing.
Earn a Certificate or Degree in Early Childhood Education
You should consider earning a certificate in early childhood education, which will set you apart from other applicants for childcare jobs. These programs take about a year and usually require a combination of on-the-job training and formal coursework.
Once you have your certificate, you can start working as a childcare worker, or you can continue on to complete an Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in early childhood education. These options will ensure that you are ready to launch your new career in a short period of time.
Become a Family Childcare Provider
A family childcare provider provides care for children in their homes during traditional work hours. These workers need to meet a wide range of regulations, including background checks, immunizations and child-care training. Some providers even provide overnight care. After the children go home, these workers have additional responsibilities, including shopping for food and supplies, doing accounting, and keeping records.
Many childcare jobs require a high school diploma and a commitment to learning about child development and safety. In addition, most employers require a child care certificate or degree to work in their childcare facility. If you have a degree, it will also make your job easier when applying for other childcare jobs.
