by CourseAdvisor

A true labor of love, caring for children is a fulfilling job in an industry that does not get the respect it deserves. Child Care Specialists care for children in child care centers, pre-schools, the children's homes, and sometimes in their own homes. Child care specialists are responsible for children's safety and for their social, emotional, and physical well-being. Child care duties include:

• Maintaining a safe and nurturing environment
• Engaging children in developmentally appropriate activities
• Teaching social skills
• Fostering learning skills and school readiness
• Providing nutritious snacks or meals
• Communicating with parents

Child care teachers and directors typically hold college degrees, while the lowest-paid jobs may require only a diploma or vocational certificate. As education gains attention in the U.S., programs offering a child care specialist or early childhood education associate's degree are on the rise. Employers sometimes prefer job applicants who have earned these nationally recognized credentials:

• Child Development Associate (CDA), awarded by the Council for Professional Recognition
• Certified Child Care Professional, awarded by the National Child Care Association

Child care worker training and licensing requirements vary among states but a license is usually required for services provided in a caregiver's home just as it is for centers and schools. Local governments and insurance companies sometimes have requirements as well.

Many child care specialists work part-time or are self-employed. The median hourly wage for child care workers in 2004 was $8.06. Job opportunities are good.

---

Let the CourseAdvisor Wizard match you to the right program:
CourseAdvisor Wizard

---

Source: Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2006-2007 Edition, Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor.