Five Signs You Should Be An Early Childhood Teacher

While most people have some affinity for dealing with kids, there are definitely some individuals who have a much more refined view of how children should be treated and educated. These individuals – with a true talent for not only "dealing" with children but also for educating them – are indispensable.

In particular, for these gifted people, becoming an early childhood teacher is much more than just a job – it is a career and a calling. Here are five signs that you may be one of the individuals who fall into this indispensable group:

You Have The Right Personality

To be a really successful early childhood teacher, you will have to exhibit more than just enthusiasm. In addition, you will need to be both patient and firm as well as creative not only with the children but with their parents as well. It can be a frustrating experience – one that at times is fraught with problems but also one that is rife with great rewards. In other words, a smile can truly seal the deal.

You Have Faith in Your Managerial Skills

Managing the youngest of children – pre-kindergartners – arrives with enormous challenges. The best early childhood teachers have the capacity to not intimidate the children and their parents while in a position of power. Instead, they try to remain friendly and approachable. It is a truly a difficult balance to strike while otherwise engaged in the classroom.

You Are Most Focused on Learning

While you are enthusiastic and humorous with the children in general – traits that keep them entertained and engaged – your primary focus is to educate them throughout the school day. In short, you are not a babysitter, Instead, you understand that you can have a huge impact on the lives of the young children that you teach. It is no small responsibility.

You Have a High Level of Dedication

Childcare, in all its forms, always takes a significant degree of an emotional toll on the caregiver. It is important that you embrace this fact. When you leave your home in the morning, you should be looking forward to the interactions you will have with the children and not as if it is just another "day at the office." Truly exceptional childcare is not just an occupation, it is a calling.

You Respect Diversity

In a global society – with children originate from all corners of the world – it is essential that teachers understand the differences that define the school-age children they teach. It might mean a little extra work but the best teachers understand that "one size does not fit all" when it comes to teaching. Instead, they understand that learning styles must be customized to some extent for each student.

For more information on determining the best career track for you as an early childhood teacher, [please reach out to us at the Athena Career Academy. We can be found online at AthenaCareers.edu or reached directly at 419.329.4075. We are quite experienced in this area and will be happy to answer any of your questions. In fact, a little time spent with our expert counselors will save you an immense amount of wasted time and most likely point you in the right career direction.