Copyright Goodheart-Willcox Co., Inc. Chapter 1 Learning About Children 25 In the United States, parents have the rights of guardianship and determine their children’s upbringing. For example, they control the chil- dren’s level of fi nancial support. They also control religious and moral teachings, as well as educa- tion and health care choices. The state can come between a parent and child only if the court feels the child needs more protection. Each state makes laws and policies to protect children. The state can make laws to develop child welfare services. Each state has a department con- cerned with children’s welfare and the obligations and responsibilities of parents. These state depart- ments are usually called Department of Human Services (with offi ces pertaining to children within the larger department) or Child Protective Services (CPS). These offi ces are staffed with caseworkers who work to make sure laws and policies are being carried out by families with minor children. For example, laws exist regarding the quality of child care programs, school attendance, child labor, and illegal drug sales to help protect children and society. State laws also protect children from the results of their own lack of judgment. For example, young children are not responsible legally for their contracts. Children are treated differently from adults in court. The state can make laws to develop child welfare services. Child Care Worker Child care workers work with young children who are not yet in school. They may also work with older children before or after school. Child care workers meet children’s basic needs and provide activities to stimulate growth and development. Career cluster: Education and training. Education: Educational requirements vary greatly for each state. Requirements may include a Child Development Associate (CDA) credential or a bachelor’s degree. Job outlook: Future employment opportunities are expected to grow as fast as the average for all occupations. To learn more about a career as a child care worker, visit the United States Department of Labor’s Occupational Outlook Handbook website. You will also be able to compare the job responsibilities, educational requirements, job outlook, and average pay of child care workers with similar occupations. Careers Figure 1.12 Children need places where they can engage in fun and challenging activities that will encourage growth. What activities do you think a child would consider fun and challenging?