Childcare Workers
Childcare workers attend to children at schools, businesses, private households, and childcare institutions. They perform daily tasks including dressing, feeding, bathing, and overseeing play. The role requires supervision of children's activities, safety, and well-being in various childcare settings.
Four short assessments and your background, scored against childcare workers and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
A day in the work
A typical week involves managing multiple children's routines and activities. Childcare workers dress and feed young children, help with bathroom needs, and organize supervised play and learning activities. They monitor children's behavior and safety, communicate with parents about daily activities and development, maintain clean and safe spaces, and may assist with naps or rest periods. Tasks vary based on the children's ages and the specific setting.
Who this work suits
Holland code SAC. Social work is helping, teaching and working closely with people. Aptly’s interest assessment scores you on the same six scales.
People who do well in this work tend to enjoy direct social interaction with children and find satisfaction in nurturing and teaching. You likely appreciate creative, artistic approaches to activities and learning—such as crafts, music, and imaginative play—while remaining organized and attentive to children's safety and individual needs.
What it takes
Preparation: Some preparation (usually high school; some on-the-job training). Most people in this occupation hold a high school diploma.
Skills that matter most
Knowledge areas
Pay by state
| State | 25th pct | Median | 75th pct | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| District of Columbia | $40,300 | $47,340 | $56,040 | 1,350 |
| Washington | $37,460 | $41,680 | $44,770 | 4,340 |
| Massachusetts | $37,330 | $40,900 | $47,920 | 13,140 |
| Colorado | $36,990 | $40,750 | $46,260 | 13,310 |
| California | $37,600 | $40,020 | $46,320 | 52,780 |
| Oregon | $35,620 | $38,650 | $43,620 | 5,240 |
| Vermont | $36,420 | $38,030 | $42,330 | — |
| New York | $35,420 | $37,590 | $43,730 | 44,020 |
| New Hampshire | $30,950 | $37,080 | $39,580 | 2,820 |
| Hawaii | $32,050 | $37,030 | $42,950 | 1,870 |
| Rhode Island | $31,930 | $36,940 | $38,290 | 1,800 |
| Connecticut | $35,730 | $36,660 | $38,370 | 12,020 |
All 50 states, D.C. and Puerto Rico
Certifications people in this field hold
- Certified Nanny and Childcare Provider (NCP) — US Nanny Association
- Certified Childcare Professional (CCP) — National Early Childhood Program Accreditation
- Certified Professional Nanny and Childcare Provider (PNCP) — US Nanny Association
Training
Aptly members see WIOA-approved programs, colleges and certificates near them, with completion and earnings data, on every Path plan.
Job titles in this occupation
and 13 more
Related occupations
Four short assessments and your background, scored against childcare workers and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 39-9011.00 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.