Education

• Education requirements vary from state to state, school to school and by position. Teaching assistants generally need a high school diploma, while teachers must have some college course work in the field of early childhood education. Some states require an associate's degree or even a bachelor's degree. The rate of pay often reflects the level of education required. Most states require daycare workers to take CPR and first aid training.
  
  

Health Records

• In many states, daycare workers must provide a written statement from their physicians certifying that they are free of disease and physically able to perform the duties of the job. A tuberculosis test is usually required, as well.
  
  

Aptitude

• Daycare workers spend hours on their feet in a physically and mentally demanding environment. They must genuinely love and respect young children and demonstrate patience, creativity and a sense of humor.