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Childcare Professional Jobs in Springfield, MA (NOW HIRING)

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Childcare Professional information

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a childcare professional?

To thrive as a Childcare Professional, you need a strong understanding of child development, safety protocols, and often a relevant certification such as CPR/First Aid or a Child Development Associate (CDA) credential. Familiarity with childcare management systems, educational software, and safety monitoring tools is typically required. Patience, effective communication, and adaptability are crucial soft skills for building trust with children and collaborating with parents. These skills and qualities are essential for fostering a safe, nurturing, and developmentally appropriate environment for children.

What is the highest position in childcare professional?

The highest position in the childcare profession is typically a Childcare Director or Center Director, responsible for overseeing the entire operation of a childcare facility, managing staff, and ensuring compliance with regulations. Advancement can also include roles such as Program Coordinator or Regional Manager, often requiring extensive experience and relevant certifications like CPR and early childhood education credentials.

What is a childcare professional?

A Childcare Professional is someone who is trained to care for and educate young children, typically from infancy through early childhood. They work in various settings, such as daycare centers, preschools, or private homes, ensuring children's safety and well-being while supporting their social, emotional, and cognitive development. Childcare Professionals often plan activities, prepare meals, and communicate with parents about their child's progress. Their role is essential in helping children build foundational skills for future learning and growth.

What is the difference between Childcare Professional vs Preschool Teacher?

AspectChildcare ProfessionalPreschool Teacher
CredentialsCPR/First Aid, background checks, possibly early childhood certificationsEarly Childhood Education degree or certification, state licensing
Work EnvironmentDaycares, childcare centers, home-based carePreschools, early learning centers, private or public schools
Employer & IndustryChildcare providers, daycare centers, family homesPreschool programs, early education institutions
Job FocusBasic care, supervision, developmental activitiesStructured curriculum, early learning, skill development

Childcare Professionals and Preschool Teachers both work with young children, but Childcare Professionals typically focus on basic care and supervision in daycare settings, while Preschool Teachers often implement structured curricula in early education environments. Credentials and work environments overlap, but their roles differ in scope and educational focus.

What are some common challenges faced by childcare professionals, and how can they be managed?

Childcare professionals often encounter challenges such as managing diverse needs of children, maintaining effective communication with parents, and handling unexpected situations like behavioral issues or minor injuries. To manage these, it's important to develop strong organizational skills, stay up-to-date with early childhood education best practices, and foster open, regular communication with families. Many professionals find that collaborating with team members and participating in ongoing training helps them navigate these challenges and provide a supportive, safe environment for children.

What are different job titles in childcare?

Common job titles in childcare include Childcare Provider, Preschool Teacher, Daycare Director, Nanny, Babysitter, Early Childhood Educator, and Childcare Assistant. These roles vary in responsibilities, required certifications, and work environments such as daycare centers, preschools, or private homes.

What are the most commonly searched types of Childcare jobs in Springfield, MA?

The most popular types of Childcare jobs in Springfield, MA are:

What cities near Springfield, MA are hiring for Childcare Professional jobs?

Cities near Springfield, MA with the most Childcare Professional job openings:

Infographic showing various Childcare Professional job openings in Springfield, MA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 71% Full Time, 24% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution.

School Age Childcare Assistant - After School

Careers Page Website

Union, CT โ€ข On-site

$16.94/hr

Part-time

Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 20 days ago


Job description

Description:

We are hiring for a School Age Childcare Assistant for our After School Program for the 2026-2027 school year at Union School in Union, CT


JOB STATUS: Part-time, non-exempt

LOCATION: Union School in Union, CT

PAY: $16.94 per hour

HOURS: 3:00 - 6:00 pm


Featured Benefit: Employer-Paid Childcare

Healthy Kids Programs provides childcare for school-age children (ages 5–12) enrolled in our program on the days and during the hours you work. Employer contributions cover the cost of care, so you can focus on your job while your child participates in a safe, structured, and engaging program, all without needing to arrange outside care.


The After School Program team is responsible for:

  • Facilitating hands-on activities following the Healthy Kids Curriculum which includes fitness, STEAM, academic, art, and other group activities as well as homework assistance.
  • Providing a safe, healthy, clean, and fun environment and acting as a positive role model for children in the program.
  • Reporting to the program ready to work at designated times and be prepared to stay until the last child leaves the program.
  • Communicating daily with parents and family members via the Playground App.
  • Observing and following state guidelines, Healthy Kids Extended Day Program policies, and host school policies.
  • Certain positions may also perform management functions such as accurate attendance records, registration, and staffing.
Requirements:

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

  • 18 years or older and hold a High School Diploma or equivalent.
  • Preferably 1 year of experience working with kids under 13.
  • Medically cleared of any communicable diseases including TB.
  • Must be warm, friendly, and upbeat. Exceptional people skills, professional, reliable, and prompt.
  • Physically able to bend, stretch, lift, carry (up to 50 lbs.), and do whatever it takes to keep up with the children.

PART-TIME BENEFITS:

  • Employer-paid childcare for school-age children (ages 5–12) enrolled in our program on the days and during the hours you are working with us
  • Telehealth, vision, and dental coverage
  • AFLAC supplemental plans
  • 401(k) for eligible employees
  • Paid sick time
  • Career development and growth opportunities


About Healthy Kids Programs
Healthy Kids Programs is more than a childcare provider. We’re shaping the future of childcare. As one of Inc. 5,000’s fastest-growing organizations, we offer Early Learning, Before and After School, and Summer Camp programs across more than 150 locations. As a certified benefit corporation, our mission is to make childcare accessible and affordable for today’s families while positively impacting the communities we serve.


Why Join Healthy Kids Programs?
At Healthy Kids Programs, our people are at the heart of everything we do. We create supportive and engaging environments where team members feel valued, empowered, and excited to grow. When you join our award-winning team, you become part of a community that values purpose, professional development, and meaningful work. If you are passionate about working with children and making a difference, Healthy Kids Programs is the place to build your career.


Learn more about working with us: https://www.healthykidsprograms.com/workwithus


Healthy Kids Programs is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to fostering diversity, equity, and inclusion and prohibit discrimination based on race, color, sex, religion, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, genetic information, pregnancy, or any other protected characteristic. Hiring decisions are based solely on qualifications, merit, and business needs.