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Child Development Intern Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Jewish Child and Family Services

Intern

Chicago, IL

$14.25 - $19/hr

Virginia Frank Child Development Center * Response for Teens * Psychological Services * Career Services * Community Services * Duman Opportunity Center * Services for People with Disabilities

Jewish Child and Family Services

Intern

Chicago, IL · On-site

$14.25 - $19/hr

Virginia Frank Child Development Center * Response for Teens * Psychological Services * Career Services * Community Services * Duman Opportunity Center * Services for People with Disabilities

JCFS Chicago

Intern

Chicago, IL · On-site

$14.25 - $19/hr

Virginia Frank Child Development Center * Response for Teens * Psychological Services * Career Services * Community Services * Duman Opportunity Center * Services for People with Disabilities

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All JobsChild Development Intern JobsChild Development Intern Jobs in Chicago, IL

Child Development Intern information

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How much do child development intern jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for child development intern in Chicago, IL is $17.55, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.86 and $19.81 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How hard is it to get a child life internship?

Securing a child development internship, such as a child life internship, can be competitive due to limited openings and high applicant interest. Applicants typically need relevant coursework, volunteer or related experience, and strong interpersonal skills; some programs also require certification or background checks. Meeting these requirements and demonstrating a genuine interest in child development improve chances of acceptance.

What are child development interns?

Child development interns are individuals, often students or recent graduates, who work in childcare or educational settings to gain practical experience in supporting children's growth and learning. They assist teachers, caregivers, or child development specialists in creating safe, engaging, and developmentally appropriate environments for infants, toddlers, or young children. Interns may help plan activities, observe child behavior, and support children’s social, emotional, and cognitive development while learning about child development theories and best practices.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Child Development Intern, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Child Development Intern, you generally need coursework or a background in early childhood education, developmental psychology, or a related field. Familiarity with observation tools, developmental assessment systems, and basic educational software is often required. Strong soft skills such as patience, active listening, and effective communication help interns build trust and positive interactions with children and staff. These skills are essential for supporting children's growth, ensuring a safe learning environment, and contributing to a collaborative childcare setting.

What types of tasks and responsibilities can I expect as a Child Development Intern?

As a Child Development Intern, you’ll typically assist experienced educators or child development specialists in planning and implementing age-appropriate activities, observing and documenting children’s behaviors, and supporting classroom routines. You may also help maintain a safe and engaging environment, prepare educational materials, and participate in team meetings to discuss children's progress. This hands-on experience is valuable for understanding child development theories in practice and developing your communication and observational skills, all while working closely with children and a supportive team.

What is a L&D intern?

A Learning and Development (L&D) intern is a role focused on supporting employee training programs, onboarding, and skill development within an organization. L&D interns often assist with creating training materials, coordinating sessions, and evaluating program effectiveness, gaining experience in HR and organizational development.

Is 20 an hour good for an internship?

For a Child Development Intern, $20 an hour is generally considered above average for internships, which often pay minimum wage or slightly higher. The pay rate can vary based on location, organization, and the intern's experience, but $20 per hour typically reflects a competitive rate for entry-level roles in child development or related fields. It is important to consider the internship's responsibilities, hours, and benefits alongside the pay.

What is the highest paying job in child development?

The highest paying roles in child development typically include pediatric healthcare professionals such as pediatric surgeons, pediatric anesthesiologists, and child psychologists with advanced specialization. These positions require extensive education, certifications, and experience, and often involve working in hospitals, clinics, or private practices with high earning potential. Child development interns usually start with entry-level positions and do not earn the highest salaries in the field.
What are the most commonly searched types of Child Development jobs in Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Child Development jobs in Chicago, IL are:
Classroom Intern - Early Childhood Services (Unpaid)

Classroom Intern - Early Childhood Services (Unpaid)

Catholic Charities, Diocese of Joliet

Crest Hill, IL • On-site

Internship

Re-posted 8 days ago

Job description

Description:

Do you want to use your skills and talents to make a lasting difference in the world? At Catholic Charities Diocese, of Joliet we are mission-driven, focused on positive results for people and believe that people should be treated with dignity and respect. If you feel the same way we encourage you to join us in making a difference!


Catholic Charities’ Head Start program is NAYCE Accredited as well as a Gold Circle Quality and US Model Head Start Program.


If you desire a better work/life balance and can work in a fast paced environment with excellent growth potential, we would like to hear from you.


Our Head Start Facility has operation hours of 7am - 530pm.


General Responsibilities


1. Under the supervision of the Teacher, the Classroom Intern is responsible for helping the Teacher adhere to the guidelines of the Department of Health and Human Services, Head Start Education Performance Standards, and for helping assure the quality of developmental experience received by the children. The Classroom Intern will be responsible for meeting the State of Illinois Day Care Licensing Standards. The Intern will inform the classroom Teacher and Site Supervisor of all Teacher Training duties and obligations required for the completion of the internship.

2. Other duties as assigned within the guidelines of this position.


Essential Functions


1. Be familiar with the Head Start/Early Head Start program goals and philosophy.

2. Assist the teaching staff in carrying out the daily schedule.

3. Assist in the preparation of daily educational materials and in setting up, organizing, and caring for the classroom.

4. Assist the teaching staff with providing active supervision of children at all times

5. Assist in planning field trips or special events for both children and parents.

6. Work with a child on a one-to-one basis or a small group of children to help with their progress in child development.

7. Assist with activity transitions to make sure changes take place as smoothly as possible.

8. Have a generally positive approach to other people, to themselves and to the world.

Requirements:
  1. Must be at least sixteen (16) years of age and have strong desire to work with children.
  2. At least successful completion of either “Introduction to Child Care” or “Child Development” completed within twelve (12) months of employment;
  3. At least successful completion of three (3) college/university credits in either Child Development or Early Childhood Education.
  4. Must be willing to fulfill responsibilities in accordance with the guidelines of the Department of Health and Human Services, Head Start Education Performance Standards, and State of Illinois Day Care Licensing Standards.
  5. Must be able to lift 50 lbs. without restriction.
  6. Must have patience, creativity, and ability to nurture children.
  7. Passage of complete background clearance, physical and Tuberculosis (TB) Test.
  8. Reliable means of transportation and proof of liability insurance is required.