Mothers of very young children are almost as likely to work as other women. Women are returning to work sooner after childbirth. A number of daycare centers now offer infant care in addition to care for toddlers and preschoolers. Job openings will be plentiful through the year 200. Increased demand for childcare workers plus the need to replace those who leave the occupation are expected to create numerous openings.
Benefits also vary.
Some employers offer seminars and workshops to help workers improve upon or learn new skills. A few are willing to cover the cost of course taken at community colleges or technical schools. Earnings of self-employed childcare workers vary depending on the hours worked, number and ages of the children, and the geographic area. Related Occupations Childcare work requires a wide variety of aptitudes and skills, including patience, creativity, an ability to motivate, teach, and influence others, and, in some cases, leadership and organizational and administrative abilities. Other occupations that require these aptitudes include teacher aide, children's tutor, foster parent, recreational therapist, social worker, and early childhood program director.