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Job outlook for child care teachers in the United States
Child care teacher job growth summary. After extensive research, interviews, and analysis, Zippia's data science team found that:
The projected child care teacher job growth rate is 4% from 2018-2028.
About 55,400 new jobs for child care teachers are projected over the next decade.
Child care teacher salaries have increased 14% for child care teachers in the last 5 years.
There are over 923,528 child care teachers currently employed in the United States.
There are 139,010 active child care teacher job openings in the US.
The average child care teacher salary is $26,036.
Are child care teacher jobs in demand?
Child Care Teacher job and salary trends over time
Child Care Teacher jobs over time
Child Care Teacher job growth rate over time
| Year | # Of Jobs | % Of Population |
|---|---|---|
| 2021 | 923,528 | 0.27% |
| 2020 | 969,989 | 0.29% |
| 2019 | 1,050,964 | 0.31% |
| 2018 | 975,421 | 0.29% |
| 2017 | 951,552 | 0.29% |
Average child care teacher salary over time
Child Care Teacher salary by year
| Year | Avg. Salary | Hourly Rate | % Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | $26,036 | $12.52 | +3.5% |
| 2024 | $25,145 | $12.09 | +3.4% |
| 2023 | $24,313 | $11.69 | +2.7% |
| 2022 | $23,673 | $11.38 | +3.3% |
| 2021 | $22,906 | $11.01 | +2.0% |
Child Care Teacher jobs by state
Most common states for child care teachers
| Rank | State | Population | # of Jobs | Employment/ 1000ppl |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | District of Columbia | 693,972 | 284 | 41% |
| 2 | New Hampshire | 1,342,795 | 500 | 37% |
| 3 | Montana | 1,050,493 | 382 | 36% |
| 4 | Minnesota | 5,576,606 | 1,738 | 31% |
| 5 | Vermont | 623,657 | 194 | 31% |
| 6 | Delaware | 961,939 | 279 | 29% |
| 7 | Maryland | 6,052,177 | 1,612 | 27% |
| 8 | Wyoming | 579,315 | 155 | 27% |
| 9 | Illinois | 12,802,023 | 3,302 | 26% |
| 10 | Colorado | 5,607,154 | 1,449 | 26% |
| 11 | Arizona | 7,016,270 | 1,783 | 25% |
| 12 | Iowa | 3,145,711 | 788 | 25% |
| 13 | New Mexico | 2,088,070 | 526 | 25% |
| 14 | Nevada | 2,998,039 | 729 | 24% |
| 15 | North Dakota | 755,393 | 180 | 24% |
| 16 | Missouri | 6,113,532 | 1,396 | 23% |
| 17 | Nebraska | 1,920,076 | 443 | 23% |
| 18 | South Dakota | 869,666 | 204 | 23% |
| 19 | North Carolina | 10,273,419 | 2,235 | 22% |
| 20 | Maine | 1,335,907 | 289 | 22% |
Most common cities for child care teachers
| Rank | City | # of Jobs | Employment/ 1000ppl | Avg. Salary |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Chanhassen | 3 | 12% | $27,136 |
| 2 | College Park | 3 | 9% | $23,017 |
| 3 | Braintree Town | 3 | 8% | $36,247 |
| 4 | Crystal Lake | 3 | 7% | $27,151 |
| 5 | Shawnee | 4 | 6% | $20,786 |
| 6 | Bentonville | 3 | 6% | $20,974 |
| 7 | Bloomington | 3 | 4% | $26,493 |
| 8 | Evanston | 3 | 4% | $27,142 |
| 9 | Fort Myers | 3 | 4% | $24,614 |
| 10 | Glendale | 4 | 2% | $23,748 |
| 11 | Tempe | 4 | 2% | $23,699 |
| 12 | Boston | 6 | 1% | $36,250 |
| 13 | Atlanta | 5 | 1% | $22,821 |
| 14 | Baltimore | 4 | 1% | $23,342 |
| 15 | New Orleans | 4 | 1% | $21,989 |
| 16 | Chicago | 5 | 0% | $27,055 |
| 17 | Phoenix | 4 | 0% | $23,732 |
Child Care Teacher job outlook: Expert opinions
Our panel of child care teacher experts
University of South Florida
University of New England
Eastern Mennonite University
Tuskegee University
Whitworth University
Southwestern Assemblies of God University
New Mexico State University
Bucknell University
University of Indianapolis
Texas Christian University
University of New Orleans
University of Arkansas, Fayetteville
Colorado Mesa University
Miami Dade College
What general advice would you give to a Child Care Teacher?
Sumudu Lewis: Many soft skills are important to teachers. They include but are not limited to being effective communicators and demonstrating compassion, empathy, patience, and resilience. Leadership skills are also important, as are conflict resolution, time management, and collaborative skills. The most important hard skills include content knowledge, the ability to unpack the state standards to develop units of work, plan well-structured lessons with observable and measurable learning objectives, create and use formative and summative assessments to measure students' learning, analyze data from assessments and make adjustments to practice, integrate technology, have a repertoire of teaching strategies to meet the needs of diverse learners.
What Child Care Teacher skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Sumudu Lewis: The advice I always give these students is first and foremost, be a reflective practitioner. Reflect on their teaching, their interaction with students, and their general classroom management. Reflect on what worked and what needs improving always focusing on students' learning. Secondly, participate actively in professional development opportunities to stay current with innovative teaching strategies and educational research. Third, be organized, be flexible, and remain positive. Sometimes a lesson will not go as you planned, so be prepared to make changes on the spot. Finally, have fun and celebrate students' successes, no matter how small they are.
What will help Child Care Teachers increase their earning potential?
Sumudu Lewis: Maximizing salary potential can be done through various means. It is important that career teachers stay informed about the school district's salary scale and know about bonuses and other incentives - like running extra curricular activities. Explore opportunities to take additional classes for University credit. Advanced degrees like doctoral degrees allow teachers to qualify for positions like department chair, curriculum lead, or other administrative positions.
What general advice would you give to a Child Care Teacher?
Jonathan Higgins Ed.D.: Get involved in your school. Many club sponsor, team lead, coaching positions come with a supplement. Other teachers will work after-school tutoring programs, tutor privately, or work summer school. Additionally, many districts pay more for advanced degrees. The amount may only be $2,500 or so per year, but if you spend $10,000 on a Masters degree, it is likely you will pay it back in four or five years and then be making more money. Unfortunately, the only other way to maximize salary is to move into a more administrative role. It is sad when we see good teachers leaving the classroom to pursue administration solely for economic reasons. In addition, it is sad for administration when we see not so great people also move into those roles because they want to be paid more as well.
What Child Care Teacher skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Dr. Catherine Nelson: Our kids need good teachers now more than ever. There is a teacher shortage, and we need people who can help make a difference in children's lives and the future.
What will help Child Care Teachers increase their earning potential?
Dr. Catherine Nelson: People love the fact that they make a difference. They can be an inspiration and change the way students view their world; they can help someone successfully navigate conflicts and roadblocks they deal with in their lives; they can encourage someone to go to college who thought they never could; and they might even convince someone to become a teacher, too, because they were that important in that student's life. Teachers are often frustrated because they want to do more for their students. Limited funding and resources are often barriers to high quality educational tools and equipment. It can also be emotionally taxing for a teacher if a student is experiencing trauma out of their control.
What Child Care Teacher skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Sarah Lauer: At the end of the day, relationships are at the heart of teaching. Listen as carefully as you can to your students. Invite them into the adventure of learning. Be playful yourself, and encourage play in learning for your students.
What will help Child Care Teachers increase their earning potential?
Sarah Lauer: View yourself as the professional that you are. Seek out those resources that will help you to continually improve in your career path. This might mean joining a professional learning community (PLC) at your school, or starting an online/evening/weekend Master’s degree program. Be curious when something doesn’t go well in the classroom. Build a network of experts and resources that you can go to when you have questions.
What general advice would you give to a Child Care Teacher?
Peter Badalament: Being an inquiry-based thinker, Flexibility, Learning to actively listen, Give feedback
What general advice would you give to a Child Care Teacher?
Paul Yoder: A key insight is that teaching is about making learning engaging and content relevant to students. It is rare for educators to teach students who are 'just like them' so building relationships with students is the first step. Keep in mind that each human is so much more than meets the eye so listening and curiosity are paramount.
What will help Child Care Teachers increase their earning potential?
Dr. Michael King: My general advice would be to make sure that your heart is truly in this work. It is a day a time when the profession is not respected as it should be and students come with so many challenges. You have to be a person who is in it to make a difference in the lives of others.
What will help Child Care Teachers increase their earning potential?
Megan Griffin PhD, BCBA-D: My advice would be that this is a marathon, not a sprint. New professionals coming into Education are so needed--bringing their energy and creative ideas for innovation. We need you! Find ways to ensure that you take care of yourself so that you can continue in the field for years to come. It's also important to find both a mentor and a support system within your peer group. A mentor who is more experienced can help you navigate school politics and procedures, as well as offer ideas and resources when you need them. Your support system can provide you with encouragement and understanding from those who are in a similar place in their careers.
What Child Care Teacher skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
LaShera McElhany Ph.D.: Student engagement is at the forefront of educational topics currently. Teachers will need to get back to the basics of researched-based pedagogical practices with hands-on and real-world applications of learning. There has been a recent move in schools around the country to pull back on device use in the classroom as a way to engage students in the learning process. Technology is a tool for learning, but it should not be the only tool used to engage students. Students need opportunities to think critically, be creative problem solvers, collaborate, and communicate with others face to face and in online environments.
Leanna Lucero Ph.D.
Associate Professor; Director of Elementary Education; Associate Director of School of Teacher Preparation, Administration, and Leadership (TPAL)New Mexico State University
Curriculum And Instruction
What Child Care Teacher skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Leanna Lucero Ph.D.: It is important to remember why you went into the field of Education and Curriculum and Instruction. Find joy in the uncertainty and unpredictability because those nuances keep us energized and fresh. An asset-based approach is essential to have when entering the field of Education and Curriculum and Instruction.
What will help Child Care Teachers increase their earning potential?
Leanna Lucero Ph.D.: In order to maximize your salary potential it is important to consider the state where you will work and the credentials and experience you bring to the job. There will be opportunities to further your education, which will make you more marketable for higher paid positions.
What general advice would you give to a Child Care Teacher?
Janet VanLone Ph.D.: Advice that I often give to my graduates as they enter their first year of teaching: We currently have a teacher shortage in this country. As a well-prepared and qualified teacher, you can take time during the job search and interview process to find a school that is a good fit for you. Ask a lot of questions. What kind of support do new teachers get? What is the teacher retention rate in the district? What is the leadership philosophy of the administrative team? Prioritize finding a position in a district where you will be valued and have the potential to continue learning and growing as a new teacher. Your students' learning conditions are your working conditions. At the start of the year, taking time to create a classroom environment that supports your students' academic and social/emotional growth has endless benefits. The first few weeks of the school year are so important. Determine your classroom expectations and routines. Explicitly teach and practice those expectations. Provide lots of positive reinforcement when your students are doing the right thing. Classroom management lays the foundation for a productive and positive year for you and your students. Teaching is not a competitive sport. We do our best when we are collaborative. Work to build relationships with colleagues, families, and the school community. Remember that you are not alone!
What Child Care Teacher skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Janet VanLone Ph.D.: AI has the potential to be very impactful on K-12 education. There will certainly be challenges that we need to address—cheating, for example. However, I believe that AI can also be very helpful. How can we find ways to utilize AI to complete time-consuming tasks so that we can spend more time with our students? Teachers need to be equipped with advocacy skills. As experts in curriculum and instruction, and with first-hand knowledge of all that is needed for schools and students to be successful, having a voice in policymaking is crucial.
What Child Care Teacher skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Dr. Tracy Johnson: Be as marketable as possible. The more grades, subject areas, etc. that you are licensed to teach, the better off you are. At a time when teachers are in high demand, you can afford to apply to many different places and choose the one that is right for you, not only financially but also philosophically as well.
What Child Care Teacher skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Jo Jimerson Ph.D.: Integrating technology and finding ways to engage students is going to be more and more of a challenge. That said, technology is only an extension of good teaching. So working to align strategies and assessments with learning goals is really key. The other skill that’s absolutely needed is de-escalation and awareness of student physical, psychological, and social needs. Kids want to belong, but sometimes they go about it in ineffective ways. Understanding how the brain processes information, and how you as a teacher can de-escalate conflict before it gets out of hand, is really important.
What will help Child Care Teachers increase their earning potential?
David Podgorski Ph.D.: Make sure to keep your options open. Do not turn away an opportunity just because it doesn’t check every box on your list. You will have opportunities to find your dream job by getting experience. Be honest about what you don’t know. You are not expected to know everything. Employers will train you to do your job. Do not stay in a toxic workplace. Your mental health and wellbeing should be your top priorities. I also suggest that more students consider careers as high school teachers. You get paid well, can live anywhere in the US, and get summers and holidays off. Be open to change. Your career path will not be a straight line. While it is great to have a vision for the future, don’t pass up potential opportunities because you put your skills in a box. Be visible in the community!
What Child Care Teacher skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Dr. Vicki Collet: In addition to pay increases for experience, additional education helps you climb the salary ladder. Be intentional so that your ongoing education counts not just for license renewal, but also for an additional endorsement or degree.
What will help Child Care Teachers increase their earning potential?
Dr. Vicki Collet: First-year teachers should reach out to colleagues for support. Don't hesitate! Every school has their own ways of doing things, and you won't know unless you ask. There is no shame in asking for help. Plan a personal retreat for October. Your adrenaline will be high as you start the school year with your own classroom. However, by October, you will likely feel worn out from learning the new duties and responsibilities. Plan ahead to bolster yourself through this month. After refueling, refocus on why you chose this profession.
What Child Care Teacher skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Dr. Wayne Journell: Learning loss during the pandemic has been well documented. In particular, that cohort of students who attended kindergarten, first, and second grades virtually will be matriculating through school for the next decade; therefore, all teachers, regardless of subject, need to be skilled in helping students learn to read and write. Also, technology continues to play a significant role in K-12 classrooms, so making sure that one can use technology to teach content in learner-centered ways will be important.
What will help Child Care Teachers increase their earning potential?
Dr. Wayne Journell: Teaching is a difficult profession to advance in with respect to salary. Most districts have a set salary schedule that is based on years of service (and most private schools pay less than public schools). That said, some states and districts prioritize teachers more than others, so if one is geographically open, I would encourage them to seek out states and districts that pay teachers well (keeping in mind discrepancies in cost of living).
What general advice would you give to a Child Care Teacher?
Dr. Amanda Aguilar: Most of your salary increases within education will come from additional years of experience as your career progresses or moving to a district/state that pays a higher salary. However, there are some things you can do throughout your career that will add additional stipends on top of your base salary. Some of these might include additional education (masters, doctorate) and additional certifications (English as a Second Language (ESL), National Board Certification, School Counseling, reading and/or math specialist, and more). Additionally, you might decide to take on additional duties such as coaching, club sponsorship, summer school teaching, and more. The stipends for these duties will vary depending on the district.
Christopher Rivera PhD
ProfessorWhat Child Care Teacher skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Christopher Rivera PhD: Prepare yourself mentally. Teaching internships and being a first-year teacher are two different kinds of experiences. As an intern, there are certain scaffolds that are put in place to protect you and guide you through your teaching experience. Every school has its own culture and will not always align with your experience during your internships. Be prepared to experience work dynamics that can’t always be accounted for or replicated while in your teacher preparation program (e.g., dealing with upset parents, dealing with disgruntled colleagues). I think it’s also important to keep in mind, unlike many other professions, teachers have several schools they can select from when searching the job market. Take your time to interview to multiple schools and see which best fits you.
What will help Child Care Teachers increase their earning potential?
Christopher Rivera PhD: Soft skills will never grow old. Understanding how technology can enrich the classroom environment (e.g., artificial intelligence) will always be beneficial. I also think that longevity, oddly enough, is also of value. It may not be looked at as a skill, but administrators want to invest in teachers that are going to stay in the profession. The profession needs educators and administrators will do what they can to keep quality educators in the classroom.
What will help Child Care Teachers increase their earning potential?
Brooke Carlson Ph.D.: We’re in the midst of an explosive change in technology, which means more change. The soft skills will be even more important as generative technology frees up more time and room for human interaction. Nevertheless, information literacy is key as it allows graduates the skills to be flexible and successful across digital and real-world experiences.
What general advice would you give to a Child Care Teacher?
Jessica Espinosa Ph.D.: In the upcoming years, I anticipate that the proficiency in integrating Artificial Intelligence and technology in early childhood education will become essential. Educators must master the use of AI and emerging digital tools to enrich the learning experience. Additionally, the ability to apply data-driven approaches in instruction and assessment will be increasingly vital, allowing educators to make well-informed decisions that foster student development. I also think that a strong focus on social and emotional learning, alongside fostering a supportive and inclusive environment, will be indispensable in effectively meeting the varied needs of all learners.
What Child Care Teacher skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Jessica Espinosa Ph.D.: As a graduate starting your career in the field of education, it's crucial to focus on continuous learning and development. Reflect on your experiences, both inside and outside of classrooms, to adapt and improve your teaching strategies. Engage actively in professional communities, such as the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC), to stay updated on best practices and build your network. Emphasize the importance of mentorship and collaboration. Lastly, remain passionate about your role in shaping future generations and stay committed to promoting an inclusive and supportive learning environment for all students.
What will help Child Care Teachers increase their earning potential?
Jessica Espinosa Ph.D.: To maximize your salary potential as a teacher in Florida, focus on enhancing your qualifications and professional standing. Obtain additional certifications and specialize in high-demand areas like special education or STEM. Engage in continual professional development and assume leadership roles to showcase your capabilities and ambition. Further your education beyond initial certifications, leveraging higher degrees for increased earning potential. Consider supplementary roles such as adjunct teaching or online course development, which can provide extra income and enhance your professional profile. These strategies, reflective of your professional journey, can lead to better salary opportunities in the educational field.