How much does a daycare director make?

They plan learning activities, schedules, and budgets, while guiding teachers and talking with parents. Between office tasks, they visit classrooms to check how children are doing.

Did you know? Surprisingly, U.S. daycare directors spend most of the workday in an office, though they also visit classrooms and meet parents.

In the U.S., earn a bachelor’s degree, often in early childhood education, and gain several years of experience with young children. State rules vary; a background check, training, CPR/first-aid, or an employer-required credential may be needed.

School needed: Usually a bachelor's degree

Good for people who like helping and teaching and leading and selling

Why does pay differ?

In the U.S., pay differs by location and employer: local public schools, community groups, and daycare centers may pay differently. Experience, early-childhood education, credentials, and state rules can affect which director jobs a person qualifies for.