Employment of childcare workers is projected to grow 5 percent from 2014 to 2024, about as fast as the average for all occupations.
Parents will continue to need assistance during working hours to care for their children. Early childhood education has also become widely recognized as important for children's development. This should increase demand for childcare workers.
However, the increasing cost of childcare and growth in the number of stay-at-home parents may reduce demand for childcare workers.
Job Prospects
Overall job opportunities for childcare workers are expected to be favorable. Workers with formal education should have the best job prospects. However, even those without formal education who are interested in the occupation should have little trouble finding employment because of the need to replace workers who leave the occupation.
Childcare Workers
Percent change in employment, projected 2014-24
Personal care and service occupations
13%
Total, all occupations
7%
Childcare workers
5%
Note: All Occupations includes all occupations in the U.S. Economy. Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Employment Projections program