1

Childcare Professional Jobs in Springfield, MA (NOW HIRING)

Showing results 21-40

Childcare Professional information

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 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 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 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 different job titles in childcare?

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

What do childcare professionals do?

Childcare professionals provide care, supervision, and educational activities for children in settings such as daycare centers, preschools, or private homes. They plan age-appropriate activities, ensure children's safety, and may communicate with parents about their child's progress. Certification in first aid and child development is often required or preferred.

What is the highest position in childcare professional?

The highest position in the childcare profession is typically a director or childcare center director, responsible for overseeing operations, staff management, and program development. Advancement may also include roles such as regional or corporate childcare manager, which require extensive experience and leadership skills.

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, 72% Full Time, 21% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution.

School-Age Childcare Staff - Before School

Healthy Kids Programs

Willington, CT โ€ข On-site

$16.94 - $18.44/hr

Part-time

Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 14 days ago


Job description

Job Type
Part-time
Description
LOCATION: Stafford Elementary School in Stafford Springs, CT
PAY RATE: $16.94 - $18.44 per hour
SCHEDULE: Follows the school calendar
Morning Program: 7:00 - 8:10 am
JOB STATUS: Part-time, non-exempt
Do you love working with kids?
Healthy Kids Programs is hiring School-Age Childcare Staff for our Before School Program at Stafford Elementary School for the 2026-2027 school year.
Key Success Characteristics:
  • Loves working with children and helping them learn through play and positive experiences
  • Brings energy, kindness, and patience to each day
  • Enjoys encouraging children's curiosity, creativity, and confidence
  • Works well with teammates and communicates effectively with families
  • Reliable, organized, and committed to providing exceptional care

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.
Who Thrives in This Role
This position is especially well-suited for:
  • Parents seeking a schedule that aligns with the school day
  • Education majors or future teachers looking for hands-on experience with children and classroom management
  • Retirees who enjoy staying active, mentoring children, and giving back to the community

If you enjoy building relationships, supporting student growth, and being part of a mission-driven team, you'll feel right at home.
Position Responsibilities
  • Facilitate hands-on activities following the Healthy Kids Curriculum which includes fitness, STEAM, academic, art, and other group activities as well as homework completion.
  • Provide a safe, healthy, and fun environment and acting as a positive role model for children in the program.
  • Observe state guidelines, Healthy Kids Extended Day Program policies, and host school policies.
  • Support program operations, which may include attendance records, registration, and staffing responsibilities.

Requirements
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
  • 18 years or older and hold a High School Diploma or equivalent required
  • 1 year of experience working with kids under 13 preferred
  • Required health clearance, including TB screening, in accordance with state regulations.
  • Must demonstrate a positive attitude, strong interpersonal skills, professionalism, and reliability.
  • Physically able to bend, stretch, lift, and carry up to 50 pounds while actively engaging with children throughout the day.

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. 5000's fastest-growing organizations, we provide Early Learning, Before and After School, and Summer Camp programs at more than 150 locations. As a certified Benefit Corporation, our mission is to make childcare accessible and affordable while creating meaningful opportunities for children, families, and our team members.
Learn more about our team and culture: 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.
Salary Description
$16.94 - $18.44 per hour