All aides must be in good health and have criminal record clearance, including fingerprinting. Some experience in caring for children is also necessary. For those aides who work with children over two years of age, the regulations require the applicant to be at least 18 years of age, or if the applicant is not 18, then high school graduation or enrollment in an occupational training program is needed. Employers view these requirements as the absolute minimum for their staff. Child care center directors usually look for knowledge of early childhood development, knowledge of child guidance principles and practices and ability to work harmoniously with children, parents and staff members.
Many employers prefer that applicants possess an early childhood education certificate.
Employers generally require the ability to interact well with others and an indication of a good work record. Health screening, including a chest x-ray, is required. In child care centers, the aide position is usually the entry job. With additional education and work experience, aides can be promoted to teacher, head teacher, and finally director. Aides can receive a Children's Center Instructional Permit, issued by the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing, after they complete 24 hours of early childhood education courses and 16 hours toward a B.A. Degree.