Childcare Worker
A childcare workeris someone who looks after children at a childcare program like Head Start, at a private or family childcare center, or as a nanny.
Childcare workers typically work with toddler and preschool-age children, but plenty work with children outside those age ranges as well.
They typically earn an associate degree, although some employers will hire entry-level workers with a high school degree or GED.
Some states and employers may require childcare workers to earn a certification in child development.
Typical duties of a childcare worker may include:
- changing baby and toddler diapers
- creating schedules that allow children to have the right amount of learning, rest, and playtime
- monitoring child safety
- preparing and serving snacks and meals
- setting up and leading activities
- teaching a learning curriculum
- watching for emotional or developmental delays
- updating parents on child progress
For nannies, their jobs may also include helping older children with homework or bringing children to and from school and activities.
Childcare centers and programs are often open a few hours before and after the typical work day to accommodate parent schedules. Nannies may work more irregular schedules.
Job Outlook
Childcare workers in schools typically earn the most, while those in private day care services average the lowest amount.
The BLS expects employment for childcare workers to grow about 6% by 2031, about the average for all occupations.
Teacher Assistant
Teacher assistants work alongside licensed teachers and help them with classroom management and instruction.
Teacher assistants generally need to have an associate degree or at least two years of college coursework. Assistants working with special-needs students may need to pass a skills test.
Job duties of a teacher assistant typically include:
- assisting teachers with recordkeeping tasks like taking attendance and marking grades
- preparing equipment and materials for the teacher's lessons
- reviewing material with students one-on-one or in small groups
- supervising students outside the classroom, like at recess and on field trips
- teaching students school rules by modeling proper behavior
The majority of teacher assistants work in a public school setting. Some also work in private schools or daycares.
Teacher assistants may work full or part time. Most of the time they get summers off since teachers and students do.
Job Outlook
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for teachers in May 2021 was $29,360 with a range of $21,890 to $46,530.
The BLS expects teacher assistant jobs to grow by about 5% by 2031, which is about the national average for all occupations.
Preschool Teacher
Preschool teachers typically look after children aged three through five. Their primary job is to make sure children are emotionally and educationally ready to enter kindergarten.
In most places, an associate degree is the minimum that a preschool teacher needs. Head Start programs require that 50% of teachers have a bachelor's in early childhood education or a similar field.
Job duties of a preschool teacher may include:
- creating schedules that allow children to have the right amount of learning, rest, and playtime
- helping children learn their letters, numbers, and shapes
- setting up and leading activities
- supervising child play to ensure safety
- teaching a learning curriculum
- watching for emotional or developmental delays
- updating parents on child progress
- working with children one-on-one as needed
Preschool teachers usually work in public or private schools or child care centers. Depending on the location, some work a typical nine- or 10-month school year and others work year round.
Job Outlook
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for preschool teachers in May 2021 was $30,210 with a range of $22,840 to $58,530.
The BLS projects a steep increase in employment for preschool teachers. They predict that jobs will increase 15% by 2031.
Some states require preschool teachers to be certified. All public school teachers must have a license to teach early childhood education. License requirements vary by state.
Requirements may include a certain amount of experience. Preschool teachers may begin as childcare workers or teacher assistants to gain the necessary experience.
Earn an Associate Degree in Child Development
Once you've earned an associate degree in child development, you may be able to work as a childcare worker, teacher assistant, and even a preschool teacher.
