How old do you have to be to work at a daycare?

Question

Matthew Zane · Accepted Answer

You have to be at least 16 years old to work at a daycare; however, this may vary depending on the state or the daycare facility. Many daycares require workers to have a high school diploma or GED, which usually takes to the age of 18 years to complete. Many daycares also require employees to have completed a certification related to child development, as well as having first aid and CPR training.

Working at a daycare facility can be a great way to start a career as a childcare provider because it provides you with the chance to learn how to work with young children. Depending on the state, you can start work as young as 16, but based on the other requirements most daycare workers are at least 18 years old.

The licensing requirements of a state, for example, may require that no one under the age of 18 work in a daycare center. Another state may require that a staff person under the age of 18 not be left alone with the children at any given time. Be sure to research your own state's licensing requirements.