List of Careers Working with Children

Individuals who enjoy working with children often pursue careers as preschool teachers, pediatric nurses, school social workers, and child psychologists. Professionals who work with children, especially children with special needs, often need training and instruction in multiple disciplines. Learners pursuing these careers may study areas of psychology, human development, and education.

This guide explores several degree options and career paths for individuals who find satisfaction in working with children. Although extensive, this list does not cover all possible jobs working with children. Students can use this guide as a starting point in their search for the ideal career in this challenging and fulfilling arena.

Degree Paths That Lead to Working With Children

Students who wish to pursue a career working with children can explore the following majors, which represent a few of the many degree options in this professional field.

Career Paths for People Who Want to Work With Children

The following list features well-paying, growing careers that involve working with children. Degree-holders who wish to work with children can pursue roles in diverse professional fields and various settings. For example, graduates may work in healthcare, sports, education, or dentistry.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median salary for all occupations is $69,770 per year. For professionals across industries, the BLS projects an overall growth rate of 3% from 2024-2034. Learners can consider this data when evaluating the median salaries and projected growth rates of the careers below.

Career Preparation for Working With Children

Learners who want to pursue a career working with children can choose from various academic and professional paths. Many positions require a bachelor's degree, and some advanced roles require a master's or doctoral degree.

Some individuals begin an entry-level career working with children before pursuing additional education. For example, associate degree-holders can become classroom aides before earning the credentials necessary for teaching positions. Many colleges and universities offer undergraduate and graduate programs online, which allow students to earn their degree while working full time.

To address the shortage of professionals in fields such as teaching and nursing, the federal government offers education-for-service programs. Participants receive tuition waivers, stipends, or loan forgiveness in return for working in underserved communities after earning their degree. In addition, learners can apply for scholarships and grants from institutions, private nonprofits, and professional organizations.

Many programs of study that lead to careers working with children feature internship, job shadowing, or practicum components. Students may spend a considerable amount of time outside the classroom, especially toward the end of their program. Additionally, many careers working with children require a criminal background check.

Expert Interview with Laura Giammusso

Q. How did you decide to become a teacher?

When I was working in counseling, I discovered that I found the most enjoyment working with children in school settings. Also, my mother is a retired special educator who showed me the importance of making a difference in the lives of children and families.

Q. What are some of the unique challenges of working with children?

It is so important to meet individual students' needs and provide instruction that will help all learners make progress and feel motivated to do their best.

Q. What are the rewards?

It is wonderful to feel the excitement when students are engaged in the learning process and connecting with others. I love seeing students push themselves to grow as learners and feeling motivated by the results of their hard work. I especially enjoy hearing my students' ideas, questions, and insights.

Q. In what ways has your master's program helped you in your career?

My master's program has provided me with opportunities for deeper reflection on my current practice, which helps me to set personal goals and improve my teaching. I have greatly enjoyed collaborating with other teachers, especially sharing resources, lessons, and ideas.

Q. What advice would you offer someone interested in pursuing a career working with kids?

My advice would be to find ways to incorporate the things that you find most important and that bring you happiness into your daily practice, whether it is art, the outdoors, or helping your community. I also think that one of the best ways to inspire students to be lifelong learners is to pursue new opportunities in your own learning.