How much does a daycare director make?

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.

Plan, direct, or coordinate academic or nonacademic activities of preschools or childcare centers and programs, including before- and after-school care. Excludes “Preschool Teachers, Except Special Education” (25-2011) and “Childcare Workers” (39-9011).

What's a typical day like?

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.

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.

Usually a bachelor's degree (preparation level 4 of 5)

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

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