What does a lekbiträde do? – Tasks and work environment
A lekbiträde mainly works in preschools and leisure activities, supporting children in their daily activities and learning. Tasks include assisting with play, meals, rest, outdoor activities, and contributing to a safe and stimulating environment for children. The lekbiträde collaborates closely with child caregivers and preschool teachers, often in teams, and is involved in planning and implementing educational activities. The work environment is characterized by a fast pace, many social contacts, and demands for flexibility, as children’s needs can vary from day to day.
Salary development over time
Over the past three years, the salary of a lekbiträde has steadily increased. In 2022, the average salary was 25,800 SEK per month, rising the following year to 26 600 SEK, which is an increase of about 3.1%. Between 2023 and 2024, the average salary further increased to 27 500 SEK, representing an approximate increase of 3.4%. In total, salaries have risen by about 10.5% over three years. This trend reflects both general salary adjustments within the public sector and a continued focus on improving working conditions in pedagogical professions. However, demand for lekbiträden has not increased at the same pace, which may affect future salary development.
Complete overview of lekbiträde salary
- Average salary: 27 500 SEK/month
- Lowest salary: 23,900 SEK/month (male, private sector employee, high school education 3 years)
- Highest salary: 28,900 SEK/month (female, public sector, high school education up to 2 years)
- Hourly wage: 165 SEK/hour (based on 166 hours/month)
- Women earn: 27 600 SEK (105% of men's salary)
- Men earn: 26 300 SEK
Education and qualifications
To work as a lekbiträde, usually no formal education beyond high school is required, but experience working with children is highly meritorious. Many employers prefer applicants who have completed the Child and Recreation program or relevant courses in childcare. Practical experience from preschools, leisure centers, or similar environments is highly valued in recruitment, and personal suitability is crucial.
- High school education: Child and Recreation program (3 years) recommended
- Meritorious courses: Pedagogy, child development, and learning
- Internship: Experience from preschool/leisure activities is highly valued
- Prerequisites: No formal degree required, but experience is important
- Certifications: Not mandatory, but CPR training is sometimes requested
Working as a lekbiträde involves daily contact with children of various ages and backgrounds, providing unique insights into their development and social interactions. It is a profession where those who enjoy being active and finding creative solutions often thrive.
Common benefits and compensations
Lekbiträden are usually offered benefits such as wellness allowances, occupational pensions, and sometimes subsidized lunches. It is also common to have work clothing and some opportunities for skill development through internal training. Employment types may vary between permanent positions and hourly contracts, which can affect access to certain benefits.
Competition and challenges
The job market for lekbiträden is characterized by relatively high competition, as there is a surplus of qualified professionals nationwide. According to the Employment Service’s forecast, demand is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years, and job opportunities are limited. This makes it important to have relevant experience and good references to stand out during recruitment. Challenges in the profession also include managing many children with diverse needs and working in environments with high tempo and sometimes limited resources.
Tips for aspiring lekbiträden
To succeed as a lekbiträde, it is good to be flexible and able to quickly adapt to children’s needs and various situations that may arise during the day. Good teamwork skills facilitate collaboration with other educators, while patience and responsiveness help build trust with both children and colleagues. Engagement in children’s development is central, and showing initiative by proposing activity ideas is an advantage. Being thorough and attentive to details contributes to a safe environment, and a positive attitude ensures children feel seen and included. Finally, it is important to take responsibility, especially in situations where children’s safety is the focus.
Key facts about lekbiträde
- Education level: High school education (Child and Recreation program recommended)
- Work environment: Preschools and leisure centers, often in teams
- Employment type: Permanent or hourly
- Demand: Limited opportunities nationwide
- Job openings: 237 within the child caregiver group
Career paths and future prospects
After gaining some experience as a lekbiträde, there are opportunities to further qualify as a child caregiver or preschool teacher, opening doors to more qualified tasks and higher salaries. Within the profession, specialization in children with special needs or taking responsibility for pedagogical projects is also possible. However, the Employment Service’s forecast indicates that demand for lekbiträden and child caregivers is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years, and competition for jobs remains high. The national recruitment situation is characterized by a surplus, making it important to build relevant experience and skills to improve job prospects.
Frequently asked questions about lekbiträde
- What is the average salary of a lekbiträde?
- The average salary is 27 500 SEK per month.
- Are there salary differences between men and women?
- Yes, women earn an average of 27 600 SEK, which is 105% of men's salaries (26 300 SEK).
- What are the requirements to become a lekbiträde?
- High school education, preferably in the Child and Recreation program, and experience working with children are advantageous.
- What is the job market like for lekbiträden?
- The job market is competitive with limited opportunities nationwide according to the Employment Service.
- How high can the salary become for a lekbiträde?
- The highest reported salary is 28,900 SEK/month, for a woman in the public sector.
- What are the duties of a lekbiträde?
- Supporting children in play, meals, rest, and educational activities.
- What benefits are common for lekbiträden?
- Wellness allowances, occupational pensions, and sometimes subsidized lunches.
