9 answers
Rachel
Student
North Brunswick Township, New Jersey
1
Question
Asked
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I want to work with kids, but not as a teacher or in the medical field. Ideas?
I am looking for a career that involves working with children in some way, but is not teaching or in the medical field. I enjoy working with kids and am very good at it, however am struggling to find a field of study fit for me. Any ideas would be much appreciated!!
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9 answers
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity => Self-Actualization.
6175
Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Hello Rachel!
Career Options for Working with Children Outside of Teaching or Medical Fields
If you are interested in working with children but want to avoid traditional teaching roles or the medical field, there are numerous career paths that can fulfill your desire to engage with kids. Here’s a detailed exploration of various options:
1. Child Psychology and Counseling While this field may require some educational background in psychology, it does not necessarily mean you have to be a teacher or work in a hospital setting. Child psychologists and counselors focus on understanding children’s behavior and emotional well-being. They often work in schools, private practices, or community organizations, providing support to children facing various challenges.
2. Social Work Social workers who specialize in child welfare advocate for children’s rights and help families navigate social services. This role involves working directly with children and their families to ensure they have access to necessary resources, such as housing, education, and mental health services. A degree in social work is typically required.
3. Youth Development Specialist Youth development specialists work in community centers, after-school programs, or non-profit organizations focused on youth engagement. They design programs that promote personal growth, leadership skills, and social interaction among children and adolescents.
4. Child Care Services Working in child care settings such as daycares or preschools allows you to engage directly with young children without being a teacher per se. Positions can range from daycare providers to program coordinators who oversee activities for children.
5. Recreation Director Recreation directors plan and implement recreational programs for children through parks and recreation departments or community centers. This role often involves organizing sports leagues, summer camps, and other activities that promote physical fitness and social skills among kids.
6. Art or Music Therapy If you have a background in the arts or music, consider becoming an art or music therapist specializing in working with children. These professionals use creative expression as a therapeutic tool to help children cope with emotional issues.
7. Child Advocacy Child advocates work within legal systems or non-profit organizations to represent the interests of children involved in custody disputes, abuse cases, or other legal matters affecting their well-being. This role requires strong communication skills and an understanding of child welfare laws.
8. Early Childhood Education Administration While this option still relates to education, administrative roles such as program director for early childhood education centers allow you to influence educational practices without being directly involved in teaching.
9. Non-Profit Organizations Focused on Children Many non-profits focus on improving the lives of children through various initiatives—be it education reform, health awareness campaigns, or advocacy for children’s rights. Working for such organizations can provide fulfilling opportunities without entering the classroom.
In conclusion, there are numerous avenues available if you wish to work with children outside of teaching or medical fields. Each option has its own set of requirements regarding education and training but offers rewarding experiences that allow you to make a positive impact on children’s lives.
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used:
American Psychological Association (APA): The APA provides extensive resources on careers related to psychology and counseling specifically focused on child development.
National Association of Social Workers (NASW): The NASW outlines various career paths within social work that involve direct engagement with children and families.
Youth.gov: This government resource offers information about youth development programs and careers aimed at supporting children’s growth outside traditional educational settings.
Probability the answer is correct: 95%
GOD BLESS!
JC.
Career Options for Working with Children Outside of Teaching or Medical Fields
If you are interested in working with children but want to avoid traditional teaching roles or the medical field, there are numerous career paths that can fulfill your desire to engage with kids. Here’s a detailed exploration of various options:
1. Child Psychology and Counseling While this field may require some educational background in psychology, it does not necessarily mean you have to be a teacher or work in a hospital setting. Child psychologists and counselors focus on understanding children’s behavior and emotional well-being. They often work in schools, private practices, or community organizations, providing support to children facing various challenges.
2. Social Work Social workers who specialize in child welfare advocate for children’s rights and help families navigate social services. This role involves working directly with children and their families to ensure they have access to necessary resources, such as housing, education, and mental health services. A degree in social work is typically required.
3. Youth Development Specialist Youth development specialists work in community centers, after-school programs, or non-profit organizations focused on youth engagement. They design programs that promote personal growth, leadership skills, and social interaction among children and adolescents.
4. Child Care Services Working in child care settings such as daycares or preschools allows you to engage directly with young children without being a teacher per se. Positions can range from daycare providers to program coordinators who oversee activities for children.
5. Recreation Director Recreation directors plan and implement recreational programs for children through parks and recreation departments or community centers. This role often involves organizing sports leagues, summer camps, and other activities that promote physical fitness and social skills among kids.
6. Art or Music Therapy If you have a background in the arts or music, consider becoming an art or music therapist specializing in working with children. These professionals use creative expression as a therapeutic tool to help children cope with emotional issues.
7. Child Advocacy Child advocates work within legal systems or non-profit organizations to represent the interests of children involved in custody disputes, abuse cases, or other legal matters affecting their well-being. This role requires strong communication skills and an understanding of child welfare laws.
8. Early Childhood Education Administration While this option still relates to education, administrative roles such as program director for early childhood education centers allow you to influence educational practices without being directly involved in teaching.
9. Non-Profit Organizations Focused on Children Many non-profits focus on improving the lives of children through various initiatives—be it education reform, health awareness campaigns, or advocacy for children’s rights. Working for such organizations can provide fulfilling opportunities without entering the classroom.
In conclusion, there are numerous avenues available if you wish to work with children outside of teaching or medical fields. Each option has its own set of requirements regarding education and training but offers rewarding experiences that allow you to make a positive impact on children’s lives.
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used:
American Psychological Association (APA): The APA provides extensive resources on careers related to psychology and counseling specifically focused on child development.
National Association of Social Workers (NASW): The NASW outlines various career paths within social work that involve direct engagement with children and families.
Youth.gov: This government resource offers information about youth development programs and careers aimed at supporting children’s growth outside traditional educational settings.
Probability the answer is correct: 95%
GOD BLESS!
JC.
Darya Tsitova
110
Answers
Grodno, Hrodna Region, Belarus
Updated
Darya’s Answer
Hi, Rachel! There are several rewarding career paths that involve working with children outside of teaching or the medical field. Here are some options to consider:
1.Social work. Child welfare social workers focus on supporting children and families in need. You would help families navigate challenges, advocate for children's rights, and connect them with resources.
2.Art or music therapy. If you have skills in art or music, these therapeutic practices can be effective with children. You'll need specialized training in therapy techniques as well as a background in the arts.
3.Child development specialist. This role involves studying children's growth and development, and you may work in settings like daycare centers, preschools, or research institutions.
4.Youth program coordinator. Many organizations and community centers run programs for children, and a coordinator is responsible for planning and overseeing those programs.
5.Nanny. Working closely with one or more children in a domestic setting can be highly rewarding. This option may also provide a flexible schedule.
6.Child care administrator. Running daycares or after-school programs can allow you to work with children while also managing staff and programs.
7.Child welfare advocate. Working with non-profits or government agencies, you would advocate for the rights and needs of children in various situations.
8.Event planner for children's events. Planning parties, festivities, and educational events designed for children could be a fun and engaging career.
9.Children’s librarian. Focusing on children's literature, engaging with kids during story hours, and organizing reading programs can be fulfilling.
Consider exploring internships, volunteer opportunities, or part-time jobs in these areas to get a better sense of what suits you and to gain practical experience. Each of these paths can offer a unique way to connect with children and make a positive impact in their lives. I wish I helped you! With love, Darya
1.Social work. Child welfare social workers focus on supporting children and families in need. You would help families navigate challenges, advocate for children's rights, and connect them with resources.
2.Art or music therapy. If you have skills in art or music, these therapeutic practices can be effective with children. You'll need specialized training in therapy techniques as well as a background in the arts.
3.Child development specialist. This role involves studying children's growth and development, and you may work in settings like daycare centers, preschools, or research institutions.
4.Youth program coordinator. Many organizations and community centers run programs for children, and a coordinator is responsible for planning and overseeing those programs.
5.Nanny. Working closely with one or more children in a domestic setting can be highly rewarding. This option may also provide a flexible schedule.
6.Child care administrator. Running daycares or after-school programs can allow you to work with children while also managing staff and programs.
7.Child welfare advocate. Working with non-profits or government agencies, you would advocate for the rights and needs of children in various situations.
8.Event planner for children's events. Planning parties, festivities, and educational events designed for children could be a fun and engaging career.
9.Children’s librarian. Focusing on children's literature, engaging with kids during story hours, and organizing reading programs can be fulfilling.
Consider exploring internships, volunteer opportunities, or part-time jobs in these areas to get a better sense of what suits you and to gain practical experience. Each of these paths can offer a unique way to connect with children and make a positive impact in their lives. I wish I helped you! With love, Darya
Dave Henry
High school teacher
26
Answers
Maryville, Tennessee
Updated
Dave’s Answer
Hi Rachel!
I have a couple of ideas for you. If you like sports, get a degree in kinesiology. As an athletic trainer, you get to work one on one with student athletes. Trainers are required to be on hand with practically every athletic event. My son loved kids, but he didn't want to be a teacher either. He ended up at an outfit called Workfit. But he could have worked with any athletic team, from grade school to professional sports. Even worked with the Olympics.
Another idea would be an aupair. This is someone who lives with the family and takes care of the children. They are quite common in European countries. You would travel with the family as well. I don't know much about them, but one of my friends worked for 15 years with different families as an aupair. She said it was one of the best jobs she ever had.
My final suggestion would be a teacher's aide. It usually requires a 2-year degree, it's not exactly a teacher, but you will be responsible for helping individual students under the guidance of a teacher. Schools across the country are in quite demand of these caring individuals. You probably have some of them at your school. Ask them how they love their job.
You seem like a very caring person. Look at all of the people who work with children around you. Don't think about money. Think about finding a job that you love. When you find that job, you'll never actually work a day in your life!
I have a couple of ideas for you. If you like sports, get a degree in kinesiology. As an athletic trainer, you get to work one on one with student athletes. Trainers are required to be on hand with practically every athletic event. My son loved kids, but he didn't want to be a teacher either. He ended up at an outfit called Workfit. But he could have worked with any athletic team, from grade school to professional sports. Even worked with the Olympics.
Another idea would be an aupair. This is someone who lives with the family and takes care of the children. They are quite common in European countries. You would travel with the family as well. I don't know much about them, but one of my friends worked for 15 years with different families as an aupair. She said it was one of the best jobs she ever had.
My final suggestion would be a teacher's aide. It usually requires a 2-year degree, it's not exactly a teacher, but you will be responsible for helping individual students under the guidance of a teacher. Schools across the country are in quite demand of these caring individuals. You probably have some of them at your school. Ask them how they love their job.
You seem like a very caring person. Look at all of the people who work with children around you. Don't think about money. Think about finding a job that you love. When you find that job, you'll never actually work a day in your life!
Monica Chibuogwu
Educational Consulting/Counseling
69
Answers
Lagos, Nigeria
Updated
Monica’s Answer
Hi Rachel,
Trust you are fine.
Your passion for working with kids is inspiring! Let's check out your niche. What aspects of working with kids excite you most?
Consider🤔:
- Ages: toddlers, school-age, or teenagers?
- Settings: outdoor, community, or creative spaces?
- Skills: mentoring, creativity, or problem-solving?
Think 🤔about the activities that bring you joy with kids. Do you:
- Love storytelling and arts?
- Enjoy outdoor adventures?
- Excel at listening and guiding?
Below are potential career paths working with kids, beyond teaching and medicine:
👉*Creative Fields*
1. Children's Book Illustrator/Author
2. Kids' Content Creator (TV, film, YouTube)
3. Toy Designer
4. Children's Museum Curator
5. Art Therapist (non-clinical)
👉*Youth Development*
1. Youth Counselor
2. After-School Program Director
3. Summer Camp Director
4. Youth Sports Coach
5. Mentoring Program Coordinator
👉*Social Services*
1. Child Life Specialist
2. Family Support Specialist
3. Child Advocate
4. Foster Care Specialist
5. Adoption Social Worker
👉*Recreation & Leisure*
1. Kids' Event Planner
2. Children's Party Coordinator
3. Youth Recreation Center Manager
4. Park Ranger (youth programs)
5. Kids' Fitness Instructor
👉*Business & Entrepreneurship*
1. Children's Product Entrepreneur
2. Kids' Fashion Designer
3. Family-Friendly Business Owner
4. Children's Education App Developer
5. Kids' Content Marketing Specialist
👉*Government & Non-Profit*
1. Child Policy Analyst
2. Youth Program Coordinator (non-profit)
3. Children's Rights Advocate
4. Family Services Coordinator
5. Grant Writer (youth-focused organizations)
These paths focus on supporting children's development, well-being, and happiness outside of traditional teaching and medical roles.
Take your time to reflect on the following:🤔
- Which one aligns most with my values and skills?
- What small steps can I take today to move closer to this career?
Now, take actionable steps after reflecting🦶🦶
1. Research job titles and descriptions matching your interests.
2. Network with professionals in those fields.
3. Volunteer or job shadow to gain hands-on experience.
Start building your path, and remember, it's okay to adjust along the way."
Wishing you the best☺️
Trust you are fine.
Your passion for working with kids is inspiring! Let's check out your niche. What aspects of working with kids excite you most?
Consider🤔:
- Ages: toddlers, school-age, or teenagers?
- Settings: outdoor, community, or creative spaces?
- Skills: mentoring, creativity, or problem-solving?
Think 🤔about the activities that bring you joy with kids. Do you:
- Love storytelling and arts?
- Enjoy outdoor adventures?
- Excel at listening and guiding?
Below are potential career paths working with kids, beyond teaching and medicine:
👉*Creative Fields*
1. Children's Book Illustrator/Author
2. Kids' Content Creator (TV, film, YouTube)
3. Toy Designer
4. Children's Museum Curator
5. Art Therapist (non-clinical)
👉*Youth Development*
1. Youth Counselor
2. After-School Program Director
3. Summer Camp Director
4. Youth Sports Coach
5. Mentoring Program Coordinator
👉*Social Services*
1. Child Life Specialist
2. Family Support Specialist
3. Child Advocate
4. Foster Care Specialist
5. Adoption Social Worker
👉*Recreation & Leisure*
1. Kids' Event Planner
2. Children's Party Coordinator
3. Youth Recreation Center Manager
4. Park Ranger (youth programs)
5. Kids' Fitness Instructor
👉*Business & Entrepreneurship*
1. Children's Product Entrepreneur
2. Kids' Fashion Designer
3. Family-Friendly Business Owner
4. Children's Education App Developer
5. Kids' Content Marketing Specialist
👉*Government & Non-Profit*
1. Child Policy Analyst
2. Youth Program Coordinator (non-profit)
3. Children's Rights Advocate
4. Family Services Coordinator
5. Grant Writer (youth-focused organizations)
These paths focus on supporting children's development, well-being, and happiness outside of traditional teaching and medical roles.
Take your time to reflect on the following:🤔
- Which one aligns most with my values and skills?
- What small steps can I take today to move closer to this career?
Now, take actionable steps after reflecting🦶🦶
1. Research job titles and descriptions matching your interests.
2. Network with professionals in those fields.
3. Volunteer or job shadow to gain hands-on experience.
Start building your path, and remember, it's okay to adjust along the way."
Wishing you the best☺️
Jocelyn Meza
Immigration Specialist
3
Answers
San Francisco, California
Updated
Jocelyn’s Answer
Consider joining youth clubs like the YMCA or the Boys & Girls Club. These organizations have a powerful impact on communities, helping to cultivate children's interests in various fields. They offer exposure to activities kids might not encounter in their daily lives, such as woodworking classes or swimming. You could even take on a leadership role, managing these centers and positively influencing children's lives while also contributing to the community.
Another option is becoming a school counselor. Although they work in schools, their role differs from that of a teacher. Instead of creating lesson plans or constantly interacting with students, school counselors provide guidance and advice. This could be an excellent opportunity to make a significant difference in children's lives.
Another option is becoming a school counselor. Although they work in schools, their role differs from that of a teacher. Instead of creating lesson plans or constantly interacting with students, school counselors provide guidance and advice. This could be an excellent opportunity to make a significant difference in children's lives.
Stacy Fernandez , MBA, MSW
Global Customer Success Executive
9
Answers
Temecula, California
Updated
Stacy’s Answer
A career that you can look into is a Behavior Technician - https://www.bacb.com/rbt/.
A behavior technician, also known as a Registered Behavior Technician (RBT), is a paraprofessional who provides behavioral interventions to help people with behavioral challenges. They work under the supervision of a board certified behavior analyst (BCBA).
Responsibilities: Interventions Teach communication, social, and daily living skills, and reduce problematic behaviors
Treatment plans: Help implement and monitor treatment plans customized to an individual's needs
Support: Provide support and guidance to help patients understand and adjust their coping skills
Progress recording: Record clients' progress for analysis by a therapist or doctor.
To get started, review the RBT Handbook (https://www.bacb.com/rbt-handbook) and watch these videos on this site - https://www.bacb.com/rbt/ . Other important stops in your journey will include the RBT Ethics Code (2.0) and the Recent and Upcoming Changes to BACB Requirements web page. If you have questions, please use the Contact Us Form.
I wish you the best of luck in deciding your career.
A behavior technician, also known as a Registered Behavior Technician (RBT), is a paraprofessional who provides behavioral interventions to help people with behavioral challenges. They work under the supervision of a board certified behavior analyst (BCBA).
Responsibilities: Interventions Teach communication, social, and daily living skills, and reduce problematic behaviors
Treatment plans: Help implement and monitor treatment plans customized to an individual's needs
Support: Provide support and guidance to help patients understand and adjust their coping skills
Progress recording: Record clients' progress for analysis by a therapist or doctor.
To get started, review the RBT Handbook (https://www.bacb.com/rbt-handbook) and watch these videos on this site - https://www.bacb.com/rbt/ . Other important stops in your journey will include the RBT Ethics Code (2.0) and the Recent and Upcoming Changes to BACB Requirements web page. If you have questions, please use the Contact Us Form.
I wish you the best of luck in deciding your career.
Martha Kramer
Corporate Training, Communications
334
Answers
Stamford, Connecticut
Updated
Martha’s Answer
It is terrific that you want to work with chlldren, Rachel. They literally are our future.
Even if you don't want to be a teacher, there are opportunities in schools to work with children, such as social workers , reading specialists, or guidance counselors. Or you may want to get involved in programs to work with at-risk youth.
On a slightly different track, you could work with non-profits or government to design programs (curricular or enrichment) for children. Or work on policies to benefit children. One of my children directs programs for a 5,000-person children's choir and has gotten to know the children well over the years.
Medicine is a very large field besides being a pediatrician. There are related fields, such as occupational, physical, and speech therapy, which don't require as much time and expense to join.
I have left some links below with other ideas. Taking a career assessment - perhaps through. your school -- also could provide ideas. Good luck!
Indeed.com - https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/finding-a-job/high-paying-jobs-that-work-with-kids
Careerbuilder - https://www.careerbuilder.com/advice/blog/10-jobs-for-people-who-want-to-work-with-children
Even if you don't want to be a teacher, there are opportunities in schools to work with children, such as social workers , reading specialists, or guidance counselors. Or you may want to get involved in programs to work with at-risk youth.
On a slightly different track, you could work with non-profits or government to design programs (curricular or enrichment) for children. Or work on policies to benefit children. One of my children directs programs for a 5,000-person children's choir and has gotten to know the children well over the years.
Medicine is a very large field besides being a pediatrician. There are related fields, such as occupational, physical, and speech therapy, which don't require as much time and expense to join.
I have left some links below with other ideas. Taking a career assessment - perhaps through. your school -- also could provide ideas. Good luck!
Martha recommends the following next steps:
Cliff Schreier
31
Answers
Rochester, Minnesota
Updated
Cliff’s Answer
Rachel,
I love working with kids and I'm glad to hear you are interested in this as well. You already have some great advice about careers working with kids. I really wanted to be a math teacher, but personally I didn't want to work for a union, and I didn't feel the pay was what I wanted for the lifestyle I wanted, so I chose electrical engineering and went to work for IBM.
I still wanted to work with kids, so I found volunteer opportunities: I've been a math tutor, soccer coach, helped with Junior Great Books, Math Wizards, bible school teacher and other things working with children. I know there are even more opportunities than I actually exercised and you can likely spend a huge amount of time if you are interested. There are always volunteer opportunities.
I hope that you find what you are looking for with your career and it fulfills you as well as allows you to live the lifestyle you want.
Good luck!
I love working with kids and I'm glad to hear you are interested in this as well. You already have some great advice about careers working with kids. I really wanted to be a math teacher, but personally I didn't want to work for a union, and I didn't feel the pay was what I wanted for the lifestyle I wanted, so I chose electrical engineering and went to work for IBM.
I still wanted to work with kids, so I found volunteer opportunities: I've been a math tutor, soccer coach, helped with Junior Great Books, Math Wizards, bible school teacher and other things working with children. I know there are even more opportunities than I actually exercised and you can likely spend a huge amount of time if you are interested. There are always volunteer opportunities.
I hope that you find what you are looking for with your career and it fulfills you as well as allows you to live the lifestyle you want.
Good luck!
Patrick Meyer
Executive - Data Analytics and AI
750
Answers
Naperville, Illinois
Updated
Patrick’s Answer
If you have a deep love for working with children, yet teaching or medical professions don't appeal to you, there's a wealth of rewarding careers you can pursue. You might consider becoming a child life specialist. In this role, you'll work in hospitals or similar healthcare environments, assisting children as they navigate the challenges of illness or trauma. This is done through play, education, and emotional support.
Another option is a career in child development or family counseling. Here, you'll work closely with children and their families, fostering healthy growth, behavior, and overall well-being. This can be achieved outside of a traditional clinical or classroom environment.
You might also consider a career in youth advocacy or social work. These fields offer the opportunity to provide support to children in need, particularly those in foster care or at-risk situations. If you're looking for a more dynamic role, consider recreation therapy or working in youth programs such as camps, after-school activities, or community centers. These roles allow you to merge your love for working with children with a non-teaching, non-medical profession.
By focusing on a career that leverages your strengths in communication and connection, you can carve out a rewarding path that allows you to make a significant difference in the lives of children.
Another option is a career in child development or family counseling. Here, you'll work closely with children and their families, fostering healthy growth, behavior, and overall well-being. This can be achieved outside of a traditional clinical or classroom environment.
You might also consider a career in youth advocacy or social work. These fields offer the opportunity to provide support to children in need, particularly those in foster care or at-risk situations. If you're looking for a more dynamic role, consider recreation therapy or working in youth programs such as camps, after-school activities, or community centers. These roles allow you to merge your love for working with children with a non-teaching, non-medical profession.
By focusing on a career that leverages your strengths in communication and connection, you can carve out a rewarding path that allows you to make a significant difference in the lives of children.