Nurse, preschool

What does a childcare nurse in preschool do? – Tasks and working environment

A childcare nurse in preschool works to support and stimulate children's development aged 1–5 years. The role involves creating a safe, educational, and stimulating environment where children have the opportunity to explore, play, and learn in interaction with others. Tasks include planning and conducting educational activities, providing care, and offering support in daily situations such as meals, naps, and outdoor activities. The work is often carried out in teams with preschool teachers and other childcare staff, requiring good cooperation skills and flexibility. The working environment is dynamic and social, with high demands on presence, engagement, and the ability to meet individual children's needs.

Salary development over time

The salary development for childcare nurses in preschool has shown a stable and positive trend over the past three years. In 2022, the average monthly salary was 25,800 SEK, increasing to 26 600 SEK in 2023 and further to 27 500 SEK in 2024. The total increase over the period is approximately 6.6%, indicating an annual salary increase of around 3%. The development reflects some adjustment to inflation and increased demands for education and competence within preschool activities. Despite the fact that the demand for the profession is assessed as unchanged nationally, salaries are positively influenced by collective agreements and municipal investments in the quality of childcare.

Childcare nurse in preschool salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 27 500 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 23,900 SEK/month (male, private sector, 3-year high school education)
• Highest salary: 28,900 SEK/month (female, public sector, up to 2-year high school education)
• Hourly wage: 165 SEK/hour (based on 166 hours/month)
• Women earn: 27 600 SEK/month (105% of men's salary)
• Men earn: 26 300 SEK/month
• Regional differences: Data varies, but metropolitan municipalities tend to offer slightly higher salaries than rural areas.

Education and qualifications

To work as a childcare nurse in preschool, a high school diploma from the Child and Recreation Program with a focus on pedagogical work is generally required. Some employers may also require additional courses or experience working with children. Practical experience is highly valued, and it is common to combine education with internships or trainee positions to strengthen competence before employment.

• High school diploma: Child and Recreation Program, 3 years
• Additional courses: Pedagogy, special education, or child health
• Internship: Common as part of the education
• Experience: Meritorious for employment, especially within preschool activities
• Tip: Choose internships with breadth to gain insight into different pedagogical approaches

Common benefits and compensations

Childcare nurses in preschool often have collective agreements that provide access to benefits such as occupational pension, sick pay, wellness allowances, and extra vacation days. It is common for employers to offer professional development and training, as well as work clothing and subsidized lunches. Some workplaces may also offer additional insurance coverage or support in work-related incidents.

Competition and challenges

The job market for childcare nurses in preschool is characterized nationally by a certain surplus of trained personnel, meaning competition for positions can be significant, especially in areas with many qualified candidates. According to the Employment Service, job opportunities are limited, and demand is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years. Challenges in the profession also include meeting the high pedagogical quality demands from children and the organization, as well as managing stress and rapid changes in daily routines. Despite this, regional differences exist where some municipalities may have greater staffing needs than others.

Tips for those who want to become a childcare nurse in preschool

To succeed as a childcare nurse in preschool, it is good to combine patience with a genuine curiosity about children's development. Being flexible and adaptable makes it easier to handle unexpected situations and create a safe environment for children. Empathy is an important trait, as it helps to understand and meet each child's individual needs respectfully. It is also wise to actively seek internships during education to gain insight into different pedagogical approaches and build relevant experience. Staying updated on new methods and participating in further training enhances competence and employability. Engagement and teamwork skills are crucial for contributing to a positive work climate and good communication with colleagues and parents.

Key facts about childcare nurses in preschool

• Education level: High school diploma, Child and Recreation Program
• Typical employment: Full-time, daytime within municipal or private preschools
• Demand: Limited job opportunities nationwide, according to the Employment Service
• Number of job openings: 237 within the childcare group
• Gender distribution: The profession is dominated by women, who on average earn slightly more than men

Career paths and future prospects

After a few years in the profession, opportunities open for further development within preschool activities, such as team leader, special educator, or preschool teacher after additional university studies. Some childcare nurses choose to specialize in areas like children with special needs or language development. The Employment Service assesses that the job market will remain stable with unchanged demand over the next five years, but competition for positions is expected to remain high. Those who wish to develop within the field have good opportunities to advance to leadership or pedagogical roles within preschool.

Frequently asked questions about childcare nurses in preschool

• What does a childcare nurse in preschool earn?
  - The average salary is 27 500 SEK per month, with variations depending on experience, gender, and employer.
• Are there gender differences in the salary for childcare nurses in preschool?
  - Yes, women earn on average 105% of what men do in the profession.
• Is specific education required to become a childcare nurse in preschool?
  - A high school diploma in the Child and Recreation Program is usually a requirement.
• What does the job market look like for childcare nurses in preschool?
  - The Employment Service assesses job opportunities as limited, with a surplus of trained personnel.
• What are the tasks of a childcare nurse in preschool?
  - Planning and conducting educational activities, providing care, and supporting children's development.
• What is the hourly wage for childcare nurses in preschool?
  - The average hourly wage is 165 SEK.
• Are there regional differences in salary for childcare nurses?
  - Yes, metropolitan municipalities often offer slightly higher salaries compared to rural areas.