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Children Program Director Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The Little Gym

Program Director

Middleton, WI · On-site

$20 - $24/hr

The Program Director plays a key leadership role in creating a fun, safe, and high-quality ... Teach exceptional classes for children ages 4 months- 12 years * Support instructor onboarding ...

The Little Gym

WI

The Program Director plays a key leadership role in creating a fun, safe, and high-quality ... Teach exceptional classes for children ages 4 months- 12 years * Support instructor onboarding ...

Children's Aid

Assistant Program Director

Bronx, NY · On-site

$20 - $25/hr

The Assistant Program Director is responsible for assisting with the management and supervision of ... Link children and their families to appropriate and needed services. * Address on-going behavior ...

Partnership With Children

Program Director

New York, NY · On-site

$88K - $95K/yr

Partnership with Children works with public schools in New York City's highest-need communities to ... Conduct weekly structured administrative supervision of direct reports (Social Work Directors who ...

Partnership with Children

Program Director

New York, NY

$88K - $95K/yr

Partnership with Children works with public schools in New York City's highest-need communities to ... Conduct weekly structured administrative supervision of direct reports (Social Work Directors who ...

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Children Program Director information

See salary details

$29.5K

$78.2K

$137K

How much do children program director jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for children program director in the United States is $78,196.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $53,000.00 and $92,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a Children Program Director do?

A Children Program Director is responsible for designing, managing, and evaluating programs and activities for children, often within educational, recreational, or community settings. They oversee staff, develop age-appropriate curricula, ensure the safety and well-being of participants, and coordinate with parents and community organizations. Their role involves budgeting, scheduling, and maintaining compliance with relevant regulations to create a positive and enriching environment for children.

Can you be a director of a daycare without a degree?

Children Program Directors typically need a relevant degree in early childhood education or a related field, along with experience working with children. While requirements vary by state or organization, having a degree often helps meet licensing standards and demonstrates qualified leadership; some positions may accept extensive experience in lieu of formal education. Certifications such as CPR and first aid are also commonly required.

Is program director a stressful job?

A Children Program Director role can be stressful due to responsibilities such as managing staff, coordinating activities, and ensuring safety and compliance. The job often requires strong organizational skills, problem-solving, and the ability to handle multiple priorities in a dynamic environment.

What are some common challenges faced by a Children Program Director, and how can they be effectively managed?

Children Program Directors often face challenges such as balancing diverse needs of children, managing staff, and ensuring program compliance with safety and educational standards. Effective management involves maintaining clear communication with team members, staying updated on best practices in child development, and fostering strong relationships with parents and community partners. Proactively addressing staff training and seeking regular feedback can also help create a positive, adaptable program environment.

What is the highest paying job in child development?

The highest paying roles in child development often include senior positions such as Child Development Program Directors, Pediatric Psychologists, or Child Life Directors, which require advanced degrees and extensive experience. These roles typically offer salaries exceeding $80,000 annually, especially in healthcare, education administration, or specialized clinical settings.

What is the difference between Children Program Director vs Children Activities Coordinator?

Children Program DirectorChildren Activities Coordinator
Develops and oversees overall program strategies and policiesPlans and executes specific activities and events for children
Requires higher-level management skills and experienceFocuses on day-to-day activity coordination
Typically holds a bachelor's degree in education, recreation, or related fieldMay require similar certifications but less managerial experience
Works in community centers, schools, or religious organizationsWorks in similar environments, often under supervision

The Children Program Director focuses on strategic planning and program management, while the Children Activities Coordinator handles the execution of specific activities. Both roles require relevant certifications and work in similar settings, but the director has broader responsibilities and leadership duties.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Children Program Director, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Children Program Director, you need a background in education, child development, or a related field, often with a bachelor's degree and experience in program management. Familiarity with curriculum planning tools, child safety regulations, and management software is typically required. Strong leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills help you inspire staff, engage families, and respond effectively to challenges. These competencies are essential for creating enriching, safe, and effective programs that support children's growth and well-being.

What is the highest paying job in childcare?

The highest paying jobs in childcare often include executive roles such as Childcare Center Directors or Early Childhood Education Administrators, who oversee multiple facilities and manage staff. These positions typically require advanced degrees, extensive experience, and strong leadership skills, and they can earn six-figure salaries depending on the size and location of the organization.
More about Children Program Director jobs
What cities are hiring for Children Program Director jobs? Cities with the most Children Program Director job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Children Program jobs? The most popular types of Children Program jobs are:
What states have the most Children Program Director jobs? States with the most job openings for Children Program Director jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Children Program Director jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Children Program Director jobs are:
Children Program Director jobs near you
Infographic showing various Children Program Director job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 74% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 13% Temporary. Highlights an 87% In-person, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $78,196 per year, or $37.6 per hour.
Program Director

Program Director

The Little Gym

Middleton, WI • On-site

$20 - $24/hr

Full-time

Retirement, PTO

Posted 7 days ago

The Little Gym rating

6.1

Company rating: 6.1 out of 10

Based on 38 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

25th of 54 rated activity centers and activity clubs

Job description

Benefits:
  • 401(k) matching
  • Bonus based on performance
  • Competitive salary
  • Employee discounts
  • Free food & snacks
  • Opportunity for advancement
  • Paid time off
  • Training & development

The Little Gym is looking for an energetic, organized, and people-focused Program Director to support program quality, instructor development, and our customer experience.
The Program Director plays a key leadership role in creating a fun, safe, and high-quality experience for kids, families, and team members.
Responsibilities
  • Teach exceptional classes for children ages 4 months- 12 years
  • Support instructor onboarding, training, and evaluations
  • Coach team members on teaching skills, classroom management, and customer experience
  • Help maintain consistent program quality across both locations
  • Oversee execution of camps, birthday parties, Parent Survival Nights, and special events
  • Support team culture, gym organization, and daily operations
  • Partner with leadership to identify training opportunities and improve overall performance

Qualifications
  • Experience teaching, coaching, or leading children's programs
  • Strong leadership, communication, and organizational skills
  • High energy and ability to lead in a fast-paced environment
  • Passion for child development and team development
  • Availability for evenings and weekends
  • Reliable transportation and willingness to travel between both locations

Preferred Experience
  • Gymnastics, dance, cheer, education, recreation, or youth fitness background
  • Leadership or staff training experience
  • Event coordination or customer service experience

What We Offer
  • Competitive pay based on experience
  • Bonus opportunities
  • Paid training and leadership development
  • Opportunity for advancement
  • Fun, active, and supportive work environment

The Little Gym of Middleton and Sun Prairie are locally owned and operated and committed to helping kids build confidence through Seriously Fun experiences.
Compensation: $20.00 - $24.00 per hour
When you work somewhere this fun, it doesn't even feel like a job
Want to wake up excited to go to work every morning, confident that you're making a difference while having a blast? You've come to the right place. The Little Gym is the world's premier enrichment and physical development center for children ages 4 months through 12 years. Programs offer children a Springboard to Life's Adventures by using movement-based learning and imaginative play to help build the confidence and skills needed at each stage of childhood.
For over 40 years, our trained instructors have nurtured happy, confident kids through parent/child classes, gymnastics, dance and sports prep, plus enjoyable extras like camps, Parents' Survival Nights and Awesome Birthday Bash parties. As a part of The Little Gym team, you will be part of a family dedicated to the growth and development of children all over the globe. We are looking for fun, outgoing, talented individuals who are looking to make a difference in their community. If this sounds like you, check out our open positions!
All associated locations are independently owned and operated by a franchisee. Your application will go directly to the franchise, and all hiring decisions will be made by the management of that franchise. All inquiries about employment at this franchise should be made directly to the franchisee, and not to The Little Gym Franchising Corporate.

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