Skills & Attributes for a Career in Childcare
By Patti Lyman, MA, CWDP, CPRW – Employment and Training Consultant
Working with children isn’t just a career — it’s a calling. Whether you're guiding small hands in a preschool classroom, nurturing curiosity in a daycare, or creating a safe space in your own home, you’re making a difference. Every smile, every question, every breakthrough is a reminder that you're helping young minds develop to their fullest potential.
And here's an added surprise: while you're helping them explore the world, you'll discover parts of yourself you never knew existed—patience, creativity, resilience, and a deeper sense of purpose. The job is challenging, yes. But it’s also filled with joy, growth, and the kind of impact that makes a positive impact on children.
People who enjoy working with children often possess a blend of personality traits that make them well suited for working with children. They tend to demonstrate strong self-control and patience, essential for navigating the unpredictable nature of children's behavior. A deep concern for others and a high level of honesty, especially when handling confidential information. These individuals also exhibit stress tolerance, physical stamina, and perseverance, enabling them to stay composed and energized throughout long, active days. Cooperation and attention to detail are key to fostering a safe, nurturing environment, and their commitment to maintaining a high level of confidentiality ensures trust and respect in all aspects of their work.
Thriving in a childcare role calls for a combination of character traits and strong people skills. A successful caregiver is considerate, trusting, warm, and supportive, creating a nurturing environment where children feel safe and valued. Caregivers must be cooperative and accommodating toward others, including parents and colleagues. Responsibility and diligence are essential, as childcare demands consistent attention and care. As well as a person comfortable in both solitary and social setting will thrive in the energetic nature of childcare work. Broad-mindedness and independent thinking allow for flexible problem-solving, while imagination and creativity help engage children in meaningful learning and play. Above all, maintaining an even temperament ensures stability and reassurance for the children in their care.
To be successful in childcare, several key abilities are essential beyond basic caregiving. Strong decision-making skills are crucial for handling unexpected situations with confidence and care. The ability to listen attentively and understand what others say—whether it's children, parents, or colleagues—helps build trust and effective communication. Age-appropriate communication is vital, as interacting with adults, children, and parents requires different approaches. A childcare provider should also be able to generate ideas and apply logic to daily challenges, remain alert to their surroundings for safety, and use established rules to solve problems efficiently. Multitasking is often necessary, so being able to do two or more things at once without becoming easily distracted is a valuable trait that contributes to a safe and well-managed environment.
If you are interested in a career in childcare and have what it takes—Connect with the FCWS Childcare Initiative to find out more!