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Childcare assistant
A **childcare assistant** is a healthcare professional dedicated to the well-being and development of young children from birth to age six. Working in maternity wards, nurseries, or maternal and child health services, they meet the child’s daily needs, provide hygiene and comfort care, and contribute to their development.
Missions: Childcare assistant
The role of a childcare assistant focuses on the daily care of young children, working closely with parents and healthcare professionals. They welcome and care for the child, ensuring their comfort and safety, and carry out hygiene tasks such as changing, bathing, and dressing.
They also prepare and assist with meals, taking into account nutritional needs and any medical restrictions. Childcare assistants organise and lead development and learning activities, encouraging mobility, curiosity, and independence.
Monitoring the child’s health and well-being is another key responsibility: spotting signs of fatigue, observing behaviour, identifying unusual symptoms, and reporting this information to the medical team or parents.
Researched profile
- Empathy and good listening skills
- Patience and gentle handling
- Attention to detail when following hygiene and safety protocols
- Observation skills to identify needs and warning signs
Skills and training
Working as a childcare assistant requires both technical skills and strong personal qualities. Technically, they must master infant care and hygiene procedures, understand the stages of a child’s psychomotor and emotional development, and follow safety and prevention rules.
On the personal side, a childcare assistant must show patience, kindness, and strong listening skills, both with the child and their family. They should be observant to detect any changes in health or behaviour, and able to work as part of a team alongside other childcare and healthcare professionals.
Training to Become a Childcare Assistant
In France, it is mandatory to obtain the State Diploma of Childcare Assistant (DEAP), which is accessible via a competitive entrance exam or application, depending on the school. The course lasts around 10 months and combines theoretical classes with practical placements in maternity wards, nurseries, or hospitals.
The DEAP is open to candidates aged 17 and over, with or without prior qualifications, although a CAP Early Childhood Education and Care or prior experience in the sector is an advantage. It is also possible to complete this diploma through apprenticeships or as part of a career change.
Additional training, such as First Aid Certification or specialised modules on caring for children with special needs, can further enhance skills and expand career opportunities.
Salary of a Childcare Assistant
In France, entry-level childcare assistants in public hospitals earn around the minimum wage, which is approximately €1,801.80 gross per month in 2025. With experience, salaries can increase to between €2,000 and €2,200 gross per month, particularly with bonuses for shift work, night duties, or public holidays.
In the private sector or non-profit nurseries, pay can vary depending on the collective agreement, the size of the organisation, and the level of experience. Specialised roles or positions with added responsibility (such as health coordinator or deputy manager) can also lead to higher pay.
Career Progression
The childcare assistant profession offers multiple career advancement opportunities. With experience, one can train to become a nurse and then specialise as a paediatric nurse, opening the door to higher-responsibility roles in maternity wards or paediatrics.
Other options include training to become an early childhood educator, nursery manager, or certified childminder. Some choose to work in professional training, teaching future childcare assistants or providing guidance in early childhood facilities.
Specialisation is also possible in caring for children with disabilities, working in long-term hospital care, or participating in parenting support programmes.
Where Does a Childcare Assistant Work?
Childcare assistants can work in many settings related to early childhood care. In maternity wards or paediatric hospital units, they care for newborns and support new parents. In nurseries, day-care centres, or multi-care facilities, they provide daily care and organise educational activities.
They may also work in maternal and child health services, where they play a role in prevention and health education for families. Some work in specialised facilities for children with disabilities or medical needs.
Depending on the workplace, childcare assistants may work regular hours or shifts, including early mornings, evenings, weekends, and public holidays.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Being a Childcare Assistant
Advantages
The childcare assistant role is highly rewarding and meaningful. It allows professionals to contribute to the well-being and development of children while supporting families. The variety of duties and the opportunity to work in different environments (maternity, nursery, public health) make for a rich professional experience. The strong demand in the sector also offers excellent job security.
Disadvantages
This profession can be physically and emotionally demanding. Hours may include night shifts, weekends, and public holidays, sometimes with a heavy workload. Frequent exposure to childhood illnesses, dealing with crying, or managing urgent situations requires strong stress management skills and endurance.
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