What to Expect from an Early Childhood Education Degree Program

Earning a degree in early childhood education (ECE) sets you up with a variety of marketable skills, including an understanding of the educational, cognitive, and emotional development of children, the ability to create age-appropriate learning materials and lessons to help children learn and develop, leadership skills, teamwork, and so much more.

What is an Early Childhood Educator? 

An early childhood educator is one who is certified to teach and work with children from birth to age eight. As an early childhood educator, you will be expected to create engaging activities and experiences that support a child’s development. You will also monitor each child’s progress in the classroom and ensure that they’re meeting their individual goals and milestones. Early childhood educators nurture children in all aspects of development, ensuring their emotional, social, cognitive, and physical growth. 

Early childhood education gives young kids the opportunity to learn, discover, and play in a safe, nurturing environment other than home. Children in ECE classrooms are encouraged to explore letters, numbers, colors, shapes, nature, art, and other fun subjects while simultaneously fostering curiosity, independence, and fine-tuning core motor and social skills. 

Why Earn an Early Childhood Education Degree?

A degree in early childhood education is an attractive asset to an employer working with children, schools, parents, or educators, so if you desire a career working with children, earning an ECE degree is a smart investment in your future. Speaking of investment, earning a degree in early childhood education is minimal compared to other educational career paths. It’s an excellent option for students who want a career in education but don’t have the time and money to commit to a four-year college. 

What to Expect from a Quality Training Program 

Students in quality early childhood education degree programs can expect to learn the necessary skills needed to work in educational settings with young children. Skills might include developing curriculum, teaching health and safety habits, utilizing principles of child psychology and human development, assisting young children with language development and more. 

A quality education in this exciting career field will provide you with the building blocks for early childhood education principles, while also furthering your administrative and leadership skills. 

What Can I Do with an Early Childhood Education Degree? 

Earning a degree in early childhood education provides you with dozens of rewarding career opportunities, ranging from education to social work. If teaching preschool isn’t for you, not to worry as there are plenty of exciting career options to choose from, including: 

• Nanny 
• Tutor 
• Family Support Specialist 
• School Readiness Teacher 
• Paraprofessional or Teacher’s Assistant 
• Special Education Assistant 
• Childcare Center Director 
• Childcare Worker 
• Home-Based Service Provider 
• Curriculum Coordinator 
• Head Start Teacher 

How Can I Become an Early Childhood Educator? 

The criteria for an early childhood education degree program may vary from person to person, but most people want a program that’s affordable, properly accredited, and can be completed in a short time frame. You want a program that fully prepares you to be certified as an early childhood educator in the state you desire to work and live in. Most importantly, you need a quality program that will comprehensively educate you in every aspect of early childhood education so you can thrive and succeed in your new career. 

Athena Career Academy is here to help you get started on your journey. Contact us today to learn more!