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Daycare Center Worker

Occupation Information table
Overview: They organize and lead educational and recreational activities for pre-school children in a nursery or day-care center. This service is performed for working parents or for clients on a long term stay at a residential or vacation resort.
Duties: They organize educational and recreational activities for children in order to teach them skills, provide physical exercise and help their social and personal development.

They read to children, teach them simple crafts, and involve them in group activities that enable them to develop interpersonal communication skills.

They teach children skills for self-care associated with eating, hygiene, respecting other children and managing their toys and possessions.

They decide what kind of educational materials, facilities and equipment are needed that are safe and helpful to ensure the children's well being and security. Provide first aid if needed.
Degree(s): A.A./B.A. QCC/QC Dual/Joint Liberal Arts & Sciences and Childhood Education (Grades 1-6) 
Job Outlook: Employment in this field is projected to grow 5% to 8% percent from 2018 to 2028, which matches the average growth rate for all occupations.
Salary Range (National Average): $18,000 to $23,000
Growth: Growth
Education Level: The typical training required for this career is generally a High School Degree or GED Certificate.
Additional Training/Education: Most employers require a high school diploma plus one year of training leading to a Child Development Associate Certificate. Courses of study include early childhood psychology, childhood education, child health, safety and nutrition, art-music-dance and drama for children, and ethical issues in human services.
Recommended Skills:
  • Weighing out the options in a situation or a problem and logically choosing the best course of action.
  • Actively looking for ways to help people.
  • Paying attention to what other people are saying, and taking time to understand the points being made.
  • Allocating and budgeting your time for different tasks so that things get done when needed.
  • The ability to understand complex written paragraphs, instructions, or reports.
  • Using logic to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions or approaches to problems.
  • Being aware of the reactions of others, and understanding why they react the way they do.
  • Talking, giving speeches, or speaking in a group to convey information, explain ideas, or give instructions.
  • Teaching others how to do something.
Recommended Values:
  • Being involved in helping other people in a direct way either individually or in a small group.
  • Doing something to contribute to the betterment of the world. Doing something for the greater good.
  • Having a job where you can spend a significant amount of time outside.
 

* National data collected by the Department of Labor in 2014 with projections through 2024. For New York green job information .

* For New York salary data information .

* For New York green job information .

Understanding acquiring positions in this field may be enhanced through continuing academic study (i.e. earning a baccalaureate or a master's degree) and/or work experience in the field, Queensborough Community College has established transfer agreements with other institutions for students who wish to further pursue their educational goals. Students are highly encouraged to meet with one of our Career Services to fully understand the opportunities available through study in their degree program.