Wilson College Online Blog

Early childhood is a critical period. Rapid brain development in the first few years of life significantly influences children’s learning, health, and behavior. This development occurs both at home and in childcare settings such as preschools, daycares, and kindergarten classrooms, making childcare administrators critical to guiding children’s growth.

These administrators play a key role in shaping the environments where many children grow and learn and are responsible not only for staff and faculty but also for the safety and management of the entire facility. Many states require these administrators to be licensed, and some employers require additional certifications to ensure properly run facilities and expert administrative care. To meet the qualifications and prepare for this role, prospective childcare administrators should consider the benefits of a degree program in early childhood education.

What Does a Childcare Administrator Do?

Childcare administrators, also known as childcare directors, are staff leaders in day care centers, nurseries, preschools , and other facilities dedicated to early childhood care and education. They supervise teachers and other childcare workers and hire and train new staff, including teachers and support positions such as secretaries. 

These administrators are also responsible for communicating with teachers and parents to discuss the children in their care, including their social, behavioral, and intellectual development. For example, if students are falling behind their peers in developmental milestones or lashing out in the classroom, administrators communicate with staff and parents to develop teaching plans. They also undertake behind-the-scenes tasks such as planning budgets and allocating funds for necessary purchases or extracurricular activities.

Depending on the type of facility where they work, childcare administrators must follow strict regulations. Whether the facility is independently owned or part of a national chain, administrators must ensure that it operates in accordance with the employer’s standards. Facilities that receive federal funding must also comply with requirements established by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS).

Steps to Become a Childcare Administrator

The process of becoming a childcare administrator can vary by state and employer. Typically, they must have a relevant bachelor’s degree and work experience. Licensure and registration may also be necessary, depending on legal requirements.

Step 1: Education

Many employers and most states typically require a bachelor’s degree in early childhood education to work as a childcare administrator. These programs can help establish research-based instructional strategies, cover how to respond to social-emotional challenges, and offer mentorship by experienced education professionals. While not always necessary to earn employment, earning a master’s degree in education can help candidates stand out and provide a deeper background in educational standards.

Step 2: Experience

Childcare administrators typically need experience in childhood education before moving into director roles, working in positions such as childcare assistant, childcare substitute, or registered family childcare provider.

Some work as teachers before becoming administrators, which may require a teaching license, depending on state laws and the position. Some early childhood development degree programs offer the opportunity to earn a teaching license. 

Step 3: Licensure and Certification

Some states may require professionals to become licensed childcare administrators, depending on local regulations and whether they intend to operate independent childcare facilities. These licenses typically require a certain number of hours of childcare experience and education. 

Employers may require certifications to demonstrate competency, such as the Child Care Administration Credential (CCAC), which focuses on administrative skills and effective childcare program management. Another option is the Child Development Associate (CDA) with administrator endorsement, which focuses on specific knowledge and skills used in childcare programs. Childcare administrators often also need to pass a background check and be certified in CPR and first aid.

Step 4: Key Skills

Childcare administrators should develop the following:

• Business management skills

• Communication skills

• Leadership skills

• Interpersonal skills

• First aid knowledge

• Organizational skills

Childcare Administrator Salary and Job Growth

Childcare directors earned a median annual salary of $56,270 in 2024, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). Compensation can vary widely, with directors working for local elementary schools earning a median annual salary of $90,270.

While positions for childcare directors are expected to decline slightly in the coming years, the BLS projects an average of 5,500 openings per year between 2024 and 2034 to replace directors who are retiring or moving to different fields. While childhood education is recognized as critically important to child development, the BLS suggests that low birth rates and rising childcare costs are limiting demand for the role.

Advance Your Career as a Childcare Administrator

Consider the benefits of Wilson College Online’s Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Early Childhood Education degree program to prepare for this critical role. With courses covering child development, educational psychology, classroom culture, and teaching in multiple academic disciplines, our program provides the foundational background to help you succeed.

Our program also offers the opportunity to earn Pennsylvania Level 1 Certification, a provisional teaching license for entry-level roles that’s reciprocal in most states. Our 100% online coursework gives students the flexibility to learn where they prefer and work at their own pace with no set class times. Furthermore, 12 weeks of student teaching experience in Pennsylvania offers hands-on experience.

Discover how you can make a difference in early childhood education with Wilson College Online.

Recommended Readings

Benefits of Summer School for Students and Teachers

Child Care Deserts and Their Impact

Understanding the Needs of Diverse Learners in the Classroom

Sources:

CareerExplorer, What Does a Childcare Program Administrator Do?

Center on the Developing Child at Harvard University, Brain Architecture

Early Education Station, Child Care Director: Job Description, Duties, and Responsibilities

Indeed, Child Care Director Job Description: Top Duties and Qualifications

Indeed, Child Care Director Qualifications (Plus Duties and Tips)

Procare Software, 5 Child Care Positions and Roles Your Center Needs

Teachers of Tomorrow, How to Become a Teacher In Pennsylvania — What to Know in 2025

U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Preschool and Childcare Center Directors