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What does a child carer do? – Tasks and work environment

Child carers mainly work in preschools and leisure activities where they support children's development, learning, and care. Tasks include planning and implementing educational activities, collaborating with preschool teachers and colleagues, and creating a safe, stimulating environment for children. The job also involves practical tasks such as serving meals, outdoor activities, and documenting the educational work. The work environment is often mobile and social, with daily contact with both children and parents.

Salary development over time

The average monthly salary for child carers has shown a steady upward trend over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 25,800 SEK, which increased to 26 600 SEK in 2023 and further to 27 500 SEK in 2024. The total increase during this period is approximately 10%, reflecting continued demand for the profession despite a national surplus. Salary increases can partly be explained by collective agreements and adjustments to meet rising living costs, rather than a shortage of labor. At the same time, salary development shows some leveling off, which coincides with the Swedish Employment Agency's assessment that demand for child carers nationwide is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years.

Child carer salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 27 500 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 23,900 SEK/month (male, private sector, high school education 3 years)
• Highest salary: 28,900 SEK/month (female, public sector, high school education up to 2 years)
• Hourly wage (average): 165 SEK/hour
• Women earn: 105% of what men do
• Regional differences: Salary levels may vary between regions, but the national average is 27 500 SEK/month

Education and qualifications

To work as a child carer, a high school education in the child and leisure program or equivalent adult education is usually required. Practical components and workplace-based learning are central to developing the right skills. Some employers may also require shorter courses or certifications related to children's safety and care.

• Formal education: High school in the child and leisure program (3 years)
• Adult education: Municipal adult education (1–2 years)
• Internship: Workplace-based learning included in the education
• Certifications: Courses in CPR and child safety can be advantageous
• Prerequisites: Basic school diploma required for high school education

Common benefits and compensations

Child carers are often offered collective agreement benefits such as occupational pension, insurance, and opportunities for skill development. It is common to have wellness allowances, work clothing, and sometimes subsidized lunches. Some employers also offer extra vacation days or reduced working hours during shift work.

Challenges and competition

The job market for child carers currently features a surplus of trained personnel, making competition for permanent positions relatively high. The number of available jobs nationwide is 237, but employment opportunities are considered limited by the Swedish Employment Agency. A challenge is that the profession's status and salary development are often discussed in relation to workload and educational requirements. To stand out in recruitment, experience, further education, and specialized skills, for example in working with children with special needs, can be crucial. Despite the surplus, demand for competent and dedicated child carers remains stable in the long term.

Tips for those who want to become a child carer

To succeed as a child carer, it is good to have a genuine interest in children's development and a lot of patience. Being attentive and flexible is important, as the work often involves quickly adapting to new situations and different children. Good communication skills are essential for collaborating with colleagues and parents to create a safe and positive environment. Strong engagement and creativity help find new ways to stimulate children's learning and well-being. Being solution-oriented and able to handle conflicts calmly and methodically are also important qualities. It is recommended to seek internships early to gain insight into the profession and build networks. Continuing education through courses and further training increases chances of employment and career development.

Key facts about Child Carers

• Education level: High school in the child and leisure program or equivalent adult education
• Work environment: Preschools and leisure activities, often in teams
• Demand: Limited job opportunities, surplus of trained personnel
• Available jobs: 237 nationwide (May 2024)
• Gender distribution: Women dominate the profession and have higher average salaries than men

Career paths and future prospects

After a few years of experience, a child carer can take on more responsibility, such as supervising new colleagues or interns. Further education can open opportunities to become a preschool teacher, special educator, or work supervisor within preschool activities. The Swedish Employment Agency's forecast shows that demand for child carers will remain unchanged nationwide over the next five years, with a continued surplus of labor in the profession. Despite this, there are opportunities for development, especially for those who acquire specialized skills or broaden their education. Related professions include student assistant, leisure leader, or pedagogical resource.

Frequently asked questions about Child Carers

• What is the average salary of a child carer?
  - A child carer has an average salary of 27 500 SEK per month.
• How has the salary development for child carers been?
  - Salaries have increased from 25,800 SEK in 2022 to 27 500 SEK in 2024, a rise of approximately 10% over three years.
• Are there gender differences in salary?
  - Yes, women earn on average 27 600 SEK and men 26 300 SEK, which means women earn 105% of men's salaries.
• What education is required to become a child carer?
  - High school education in the child and leisure program or equivalent adult education is required.
• What is the job market like for child carers?
  - There is a surplus of trained personnel nationwide and job opportunities are limited.
• What are the highest and lowest salaries for child carers?
  - The highest salary is 28,900 SEK and the lowest is 23,900 SEK per month.
• What benefits are common for child carers?
  - Common benefits include occupational pension, wellness allowance, work clothing, and skill development.