Babysitter, preschool

What does a childcare worker in preschool do? – Tasks and work environment

A childcare worker in preschool provides children with care, safety, and pedagogical support in their daily activities. Tasks include assisting with meals and dressing, stimulating play and learning through planned activities. The role also involves creating a safe and inclusive environment where children can develop socially and emotionally. The work environment often involves close contact with children, colleagues, and sometimes guardians, mainly indoors but can also include outdoor activities on the preschool yard. The pace can be high, and the workday varies depending on the needs and age of the children.

Salary development over time

The salary for preschool childcare workers has steadily increased over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 25,800 SEK per month, followed by an increase to 26 600 SEK in 2023. The latest figure from 2024 shows a further rise to 27 500 SEK, representing a total increase of approximately 6.6% over the period. The salary has been strengthened mainly through collective bargaining increases and a general focus on working conditions within the welfare sector. Despite some wage growth, demand for the profession has not grown significantly, which affects wage potential. Women still earn slightly more than men in the profession, which is uncommon compared to many other industries.

Childcare worker in preschool salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 27 500 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 23,900 SEK/month (man, private sector, 3-year high school education)
• Highest salary: 28,900 SEK/month (woman, government sector, up to 2-year high school education)
• Hourly wage (average): 165 SEK
• Women earn: 27 600 SEK/month (105% of men's salary)
• Men earn: 26 300 SEK/month
• Regional differences: No significant variation reported

Education and qualifications

To work as a childcare worker in preschool, a high school education with a focus on children and leisure is usually required. Some employers may also accept other relevant education or work experience, but formal education is considered an important foundation. Internships and work-based training during studies are common and provide valuable experience for the professional life.

• Formal education: High school diploma, focusing on children and leisure (3 years)
• Internship: Work-based learning during education
• Additional courses: For example, child safety, first aid, and pedagogy
• Prerequisites: Good knowledge of Swedish, social skills, and cooperation ability
• Tips for choosing: Select a program with internships to increase employability

Common benefits and compensations

Childcare workers in preschool are often covered by collective agreements that provide benefits such as occupational pension, insurance, and wellness contributions. Holiday pay and overtime allowances may apply for work during inconvenient hours, and there are often opportunities for further training and skill development through the employer. Many workplaces also offer subsidized meals or work clothing.

Competition and challenges

The competition for positions as a preschool childcare worker is currently high in most areas, as the supply of trained personnel exceeds demand. The Employment Service's prognosis indicates limited opportunities for new jobs in the coming years and an oversupply of qualified candidates. This means that specific skills or experience may be required to stand out during recruitment. Challenges in the profession also include managing large groups of children, high pace, and physically demanding tasks. However, there are good opportunities for those who are flexible geographically or have specialized skills, e.g., working with children with special needs.

Tips for those wanting to become a childcare worker in preschool

To succeed as a childcare worker in preschool, it is good to have strong empathy and a genuine interest in children's development, which facilitates interactions with children and parents. Being flexible and able to adapt to different situations is crucial, especially when the pace is high and the group varies. Responsibility and thoroughness are also important, as children's safety always comes first. Cooperation skills are valued by employers, as the work is often team-based. Showing initiative and creativity in planning activities can make the workday more enjoyable and rewarding. Good communication skills facilitate collaboration with colleagues and parents, and stress tolerance helps handle unexpected situations. Finally, a willingness to continually develop and acquire new knowledge is valuable, as the preschool environment is constantly changing.

Key facts about childcare workers in preschool

• Education level: High school diploma, children and leisure program
• Work environment: Indoors and outdoors in preschool settings
• Work form: Mostly full-time, sometimes hourly employment
• Demand: Limited job opportunities, oversupply of trained personnel
• Number of available jobs: 237 (current statistics)

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years, a preschool childcare worker can take on more responsibility within the team, such as becoming a team leader or supervisor for new colleagues and interns. Further education can open doors to roles such as preschool teacher or special educator, depending on education and experience. The Employment Service's forecast indicates small opportunities for jobs in the national childcare assistant workforce, with an oversupply situation and unchanged demand over five years. Nonetheless, there is always a need for committed childcare workers, especially in larger cities or areas with population growth. Continuing education and specialization can be pathways to greater employment opportunities and higher salaries.

Common questions about childcare workers in preschool

• What does a childcare worker in preschool earn?
  - The average salary is 27 500 SEK per month, with variations depending on experience, sector, and education.
• What are the gender differences among childcare workers in preschool?
  - Women earn on average 27 600 SEK per month, which is approximately 105% of men's salaries.
• What education is required to become a childcare worker in preschool?
  - High school education with a focus on children and leisure is most common, preferably supplemented with practical training.
• Are there regional salary differences?
  - No significant regional differences have been reported for this profession.
• What are the future prospects?
  - The prognosis indicates limited job opportunities and a surplus of trained childcare workers according to the Employment Service.
• What tasks does a childcare worker in preschool perform?
  - Care, play, pedagogical activities, and support in daily routines for children.
• Are there opportunities for further education?
  - Yes, further education can lead to roles such as preschool teacher or special educator.