Although the pay is generally very low, more education means higher earnings in some cases. Preschool teachers in public schools who have State teacher certification generally have salaries and benefits comparable to kindergarten and elementary school teachers . Preschool teachers in privately funded childcare centers generally earn much lower salaries than other comparably educated workers. Earnings of self-employed childcare workers vary depending on the hours worked, number and ages of the children, and the location. Benefits vary, but are minimal for most preschool and childcare workers.
Many employers offer free or discounted childcare to employees.
Some offer a full benefits package, including health insurance and paid vacations, but others offer no benefits at all. Some employers offer seminars and workshops to help workers improve upon or learn new skills. A few are willing to cover the cost of courses taken at community colleges or technical schools. Many worked part time. About 4 out of 10 preschool teachers and childcare workers are self-employed, most of whom are family daycare providers.