Day in the life
A Day in the Life of a Childcare Worker
What childcare workers actually do from the start of a shift to the end: the tasks, tools, schedule and realities of the job.
Open the infant room and greet families. From there, the day usually includes supervise children and keep them safe, prepare meals and snacks, and change diapers and help with toileting. Shifts include early mornings and evenings; many centers are open 10 to 12 hours a day.
Hour by hour: a typical shift
No two days are identical, but this timeline reflects a realistic day for a childcare worker working full time.
- Open the infant room and greet families.
- Feed babies and log bottles.
- Lead tummy time and sensory play.
- Change diapers and record them.
- Help toddlers with nap time.
- Sanitize toys and surfaces.
- Share daily notes with parents at pickup.
Where childcare workers work
Childcare workers work in centers, homes and schools. The job involves lifting children, sitting on the floor and staying alert.
Hours and schedule
Shifts include early mornings and evenings; many centers are open 10 to 12 hours a day.
Tasks you’ll do most often
- Supervise children and keep them safe
- Prepare meals and snacks
- Change diapers and help with toileting
- Lead play and learning activities
- Help children with naps and routines
- Communicate with parents
- Clean and sanitize toys and spaces
Tools you’ll use every day
- Cribs and changing tables
- Toys and learning materials
- Parent communication apps
- First aid kits
- Sanitizing supplies
- Daily log sheets
The best and hardest parts of the job
What people like
- Quick entry
- Meaningful work
- Flexible schedules
- Path to teaching roles
What’s hard
- Low pay
- Physically and emotionally tiring
- Exposure to illnesses
- Strict licensing rules
You’ll likely thrive if…
- I love caring for children
- I’m patient
- I can handle messes
- I want to start quickly
- I’m reliable
- I might become a teacher
Not sure? Take the free Childcare Worker fit quiz or the Career Match Quiz.
Staying safe on the job
- Count children at every transition
- Follow safe sleep rules for infants
- Know allergies and emergency plans
- Wash hands often