Choosing among the different careers available can be difficult. Do you go with money or fame? Or do you opt for a job that makes little money, but benefits? The true calling of a career is whether or not it is something you love doing.



If you find yourself considering a career in childcare, then there are a few facts you should know. The first is that there is a huge difference between the different types of childcare. Babysitters, nannies and a daycare center are not always interchangeable.

A nanny lives with the parents, travels when they do and is usually available whenever the parents need them. Some work through an agency that takes care of running their background check, while others may be freelance.

Child care centers and babysitters can be full or part time, depending on the center or the sitter. It is typical to find teenagers as babysitters since there isn't a licensing requirement. Most babysitters are found through recommendations by other parents who have utilized their services. A daycare center is a business and will have to follow state licensing requirements.

Some facilities do not require licensing of their staff whereas some make it mandatory. The higher end pre-schools will staff licensed professionals. Careers with a quality daycare center can be rewarding, as they often provide insurance and benefits.

The additional benefit of having your license can mean higher pay as well. It pays to consider becoming licensed and staying abreast of the current educational needs for infants/toddlers, special needs and pre-school children.

If being in a teaching position is not one of the careers you have in mind, then there are other positions available. You might consider taking an administrative position. The Director of a preschool often deals with children but not in a hands-on setting.

The position entails paperwork and knowing the rules set forth by the state. These positions usually require at least an Associates Degree and knowledge of associated paperwork.

It is a sad fact that most careers in the field of childcare or education are poorly paid, yet there is a great need for qualified teachers in every age group. Parents trust them with their most valuable assets and mankind's future rests upon the teacher's shoulders. It may not pay much but the reward of seeing your charge excel in school is one that cannot be measured with dollar signs.