Child Care Workers

Individuals who nurture and teach children of all ages in child care centers, nursery schools, preschools, public schools, family child care homes and before and after school programs. They play an important role in a child's development by caring for the child when parents are at work or away for other reasons. Some parents enroll their children in nursery schools or child care centers primarily to provide them with the opportunity to interact with other children. In addition to attending to children's basic needs, these workers organize activities that stimulate the children's physical, emotional, intellectual and social growth. They help children explore their interests, develop their talents and independence, build self-esteem and learn how to get along with others.