Finding a Career in Early Childhood Education

Careers in early childhood education (ECE) have become more specialized. Being a preschool teacher isn’t the only role available, as the field needs counselors, directors, administrative staff, and more. Getting a job in this field requires education and hands-on experience. If you dream of working with children in a rewarding role, here are some fulfilling career opportunities to explore:

Preschool Teacher 

Preschool teachers educate and care for children who are often between the ages of 3 and 5 and not yet ready for kindergarten. They focus on young children’s language, motor, and social skills development. Preschool teachers encourage learning with play, and you can expect to supervise craft projects, games, songs, and movement. 

If you want to know how to become a preschool teacher, preschool teachers typically need a degree in early childhood education. 

Family Resource Worker 

If you want to help young children and their families facing adversity in their home-life situation, a career as a family resource worker might be a good fit. These workers determine the eligibility of families for state and federal assistance programs. Depending on your position, you may assist parents, arrange adoptions, or find foster homes for abandoned or abused children. You might address issues like teenage pregnancy, behavioral problems, and truancy in schools. You may also advise teachers in this role. 

The education requirements for this position vary depending on your goals and the organization, but most family resource workers must obtain at least a degree in early childhood education.

Teacher’s Assistant 

A career as a teacher’s assistant is an excellent option for those who want to work in the classroom but don’t want the full responsibilities associated with being the lead teacher. Teacher’s assistants reinforce lessons taught and proper classroom behavior while helping students throughout the day. Teacher’s assistants also help the teacher with record keeping, like attendance, grading homework, and setting up daily lessons and activities. 

Most school districts require teacher’s assistants to have completed two years of college coursework or have earned a degree in early childhood education.

Nanny 

A full-time nanny provides in-home care and supervision for children. A nanny might live in the home, working with one client at a time, while others might have clients, rotating between them as needed. Nannies supervise and coordinate activities like playing, eating, bathing, and dressing. Some nannies also help children with homework and school projects. Live-in nannies often have more responsibilities, including cooking, cleaning, grocery shopping, and transporting children to and from school. 

Education requirements vary, but many clients prefer to hire nannies with a degree in early childhood education. 

Childcare Center Director 

Those who direct childcare centers are responsible for the day-to-day operations of a daycare, preschool, or childcare center. These experienced educators train and supervise the staff accountable for the care of children, set objectives and standards for their organization, and work to maintain strong relationships with families. They also deal with many daily administrative tasks like record keeping, approving curriculum, preparing budgets, supply ordering, and evaluating staff. 

Ready to Take the Next Step? 

If you’re wondering how to become a preschool teacher or obtain employment in another ECE career, Athena Career Academy can help. Athena is dedicated to offering a comprehensive Early Childhood Education Associate Degree Program Majoring in ECE Birth through age 5 and school age programming. Contact us today to learn more about the opportunities you can explore.