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Childcare Professional Jobs in Springfield, MA (NOW HIRING)

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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, 74% Full Time, 21% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 84% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 15% Remote job distribution.

School-Age Childcare Staff - Before & After School

Careers Page Website

Petersham, MA โ€ข On-site

$17 - $19/hr

Part-time

Dental, Vision, Retirement

This job post hasย expired today.ย Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

Description:

We are hiring for School Age Childcare Staff for our Before & After School Program for the 2026-2027 school year. This role will supervise and support children in a safe, structured environment. They promote positive interactions, support youth development, and maintain a safe and healthy setting.


LOCATION: Petersham Center School in Petersham, MA

JOB STATUS: Part-time, non-exempt

PAY: $17.00 - $19.00 per hour

Morning Program: 6:30 AM – 8:05 AM
Afternoon Program: 2:50 PM – 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 Before & 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:

Experience and Education

  • Must be at least 18 years of age.

Candidates must meet ONE of the following qualification options:

  • A Bachelor’s or Associate’s degree and at least three months of experience working with school-age children.
  • A high school diploma or equivalent and at least six months of experience working with school-age children, including at least three months of supervised experience in a school-age childcare program.
  • At least nine months of experience working with school-age children, including at least three months of supervised experience in a school-age childcare program.

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.