Education and Training

Overview

Childcare workers take care of children in a home or other daycare setting, and their duties can include helping with homework, playing games, reading stories, and preparing meals or snacks. Building a child’s social and emotional skills starts at birth, according to early childhood education experts. It’s during this critical time that children learn about their world, such as how to share, communicate their feelings and solve problems. As a childcare worker, you’re the difference-maker in creating well-rounded youngsters ready for elementary school and beyond.

Labor Market Information

Demand for childcare workers is projected to jump 8 percent nationwide by 2028—faster than the average for all jobs—as many school districts, universities and healthcare providers are likely to build new facilities or renovate existing ones. Childcare workers make $34K per year on average in the DC metro area. Entry level jobs require a high school degree or equivalent and an industry recognized credential. And there are 2,154 job openings annually in the DC metro area. For more information on LMI data click here.

Industry Certifications You Can Earn

• Council for Professional Recognition Certified Child Development Associate (CDA)

Course Sequence

Overview

If you like working with kids and look to join the workforce right out of high school, consider this program of study. Students can earn a Child Development Associate certification to become a teacher’s assistant. Teacher’s assistants work to make learning fun, develop relationships with students, and serve as a critical member of the early learning education team. As a teacher’s assistant, you will find that no two days are ever the same. Many teacher’s assistants advance to earning a bachelor’s degree to increase their professional options and earn more money.

Labor Market Information

Although a teacher’s assistant can typically expect a lower salary than a certified lead teacher, the job outlook is good for these professionals. Job growth is forecasted to jump 4 percent through 2028. Teacher’s assistant make $24K per year on average in the DC metro area. Entry level jobs require some postsecondary education. And there are 2,265 job openings annually in the DC metro area. For more information on LMI data click here.

Course Sequence