If you are interested in working with children, and in education, then you may want to consider a career as an early childhood educator. You can go into this field by obtaining your Early Childhood degree.
What does it take to be an early childhood educator?
Other than attending and graduating from early childhood school, those who choose to work in this profession are people who like to work with kids, have a positive disposition, and are able to act as a role model for their students, in terms of respectful behavior and language. When working in an early childhood school setting you will have to ensure you use consistent communications and guidance, and you will also need to be able to communicate with the children’s parents, guardians or other teachers.
What does a typical day as an early childhood educator look like?
Most early childhood educators will tell you, there is no such thing as a typical day in this role! Your day can start as early as 6 a.m., depending on what time parents are able to drop off their children, and can last as late as 6 p.m. You will typically work Monday-Friday.
Some of the things you will do may include monitoring children’s play, creating programs to improve their learning, and perhaps even arranging field trips.
What will I need to get into early childhood school?
Early childhood school programs will require a high school diploma, and grade 12 level English courses.
Some early childhood schools may also require a clean criminal background check (especially for any internship program you may participate in). This will also be necessary for any jobs you would secure post-graduation.
What will I learn in my early childhood courses?
Once you enter your early childhood degree program, some of the early childhood courses you will take will include courses on basic skills to work with infants, toddlers, preschoolers and kindergarten-aged children. You will take early childhood courses that focus on nutrition, development, health, and caring for children who have special needs.
What kind of jobs can I get with my Early Childhood degree?
Once you have completed early childhood school you will be eligible for jobs working in:
• daycare centres
• kindergarten classrooms
• playrooms
• centres for special needs children
• women’s shelters
• early intervention programs
How much will I make with an Early Childhood degree?
The average salary of someone with an early childhood degree is approximately $13.39 to $18.69 per hour. While the salary for those who have completed early childhood school may not be as high as that for other professions, it is also a profession that reports higher than average job satisfaction.
What are the job prospects once I’ve finished early childhood school?
Currently, the prospects in this area are listed as being quite strong, as more school systems are requiring individuals who have graduated from early childhood school be present in kindergarten classrooms. |
