Early childhood describes the period of time between a child’s birth and the age of eight. Early childhood education, however, typically refers to the teaching of children between infancy and kindergarten age. These are some of the most important years of a child’s life. It is when they first learn how to interact with others. It is when they start to create emotional connections. It is also when children begin to develop interests, which often stay with them throughout their lives.
Enter, the importance of early childhood educators.
Early childhood educators are, in a way, the building blocks of learning. They help lay the foundation for education and discovery, for the rest of a child’s life. Research shows that without early education, children are likely to fall behind throughout their academic careers.
Believe it or not, most children will develop a full range of necessary life skills before the age of five. And it is because of early childhood educators that young children are able to do so. In their earliest academic years, children develop skills in socialization, communication, critical thinking, focus, self-control, and self-motivation—all of which are necessary for success in school, and in life. Early educators help encourage this skill development by:
- Facilitating group activities, and therefore collaboration and friendships between children.
- Inspiring children to explore areas of interest and engage in their learning experiences.
- Encouraging good communication between children and adults.
- Developing cognitively-stimulating activities that fuel children’s curiosities and desire to learn.
- Creating diverse, hands-on curriculums that help hone children’s fine motor skills.
- Encouraging independence in children, through basic problem-solving activities.
- Recognizing children for their achievements, which in turn motivates children to succeed.
- Providing a safe and comfortable classroom environment. Studies show that when children and are comfortable with the people around them, they learn more quickly and successfully.
- Ensuring warm, positive, and nurturing interactions between children and teachers, to establish a sense of trust. Research shows that children with secure, trusting relationships are more likely to play, explore, and interact with adults in a childcare setting.
Early childhood educators are not just important in the lives of children, however. They are also key figures in the lives of families. Because of early childhood educators, parents are better able to balance work and family responsibilities. They are able to leave their children in a safe, nurturing environment, with trustworthy educators, while they go to work. Because of this, parents are able to work full-time, increase family income, and in turn, increase their children’s opportunities down the road.
Do You Wish to Make a Difference with Your Career?
If you are on your way to becoming an early childhood educator, rest assured that you are heading towards a highly impactful career. Early childhood educators are some of the most important figures in a child’s life, and have the power to make a real difference in the future of each child they meet.
Research suggests that early childhood educators who work with pre-K ages, can significantly impact the futures of the children with which they work. According to one source, children who enter kindergarten at higher levels of readiness have higher earnings throughout their lives. These children are also generally healthier, and less likely to become involved with crime later in life.
Whether you wish to become an Infant, Toddler, or Preschool Teacher, a School Readiness Teacher, Paraprofessional, or even a Child Specialist with the DCF, you have the power to empower young minds to succeed. No matter which career path you pursue within early childhood education, you can rest assured you will hold great importance in your role. Early childhood offers some of the most critical years for learning. By providing children with positive experiences now, you can set the stage for their success long-term.
So, How Do You Get Started?
To enter the important field of early childhood education, you must start with a college education. An early childhood education degree will equip you with the skills and knowledge needed to work with children and their families, in a variety of settings. You will learn the ins and outs of child growth and development, and how to communicate effectively with children and families alike.
At Goodwin, there are various levels of childhood education degrees you can pursue. Our associate degree in early childhood education will prepare you for several entry-level careers, including a School Readiness Assistant Teacher and a Private Sector Preschool, Toddler, or Infant Teacher. A bachelor’s in child study, meanwhile, will prepare you to become a Child Advocate, Curriculum Coordinator, Public Infant, Toddler, or Preschool Teacher, and much more. Learn about the different career options here.
Graduates of both programs are eligible to pursue their Connecticut Early Childhood Teacher Credential (ECTC), which enables students to start working in the field.
The importance of early childhood educators is undeniable, and it is only growing. As more research underlines the importance of early childhood education, the demand for educators is increasing. By the year 2029, the Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts that over 30,000 jobs will open up for childcare workers and preschool teachers. The time is now to get started.
To learn about the early childhood education programs at Goodwin University, please do not hesitate to call 800-889-3282 or request more information online.
Goodwin University is a nonprofit institution of higher education and is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE), formerly known as the New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC). Goodwin University was founded in 1999, with the goal of serving a diverse student population with career-focused degree programs that lead to strong employment outcomes.