Four benefits of being an early childhood educator

While no profession is perfect, and every job comes with unique challenges, when you become an early childhood educator, you could be changing a child’s life path, which is something like no other feeling!

BY LINDSAY CARSON CEO, Early Learning Coalition of Pinellas County

PINELLAS COUNTY — You’ve always loved kids and may wonder if becoming an early childhood educator is the right career path. While no profession is perfect, and every job comes with unique challenges, when you become an early childhood educator, you could be changing a child’s life path, and that is something like no other feeling! Ninety percent of brain development occurs before a child starts kindergarten!

As an early childhood educator, you are working daily to set children up for success, not only in school but also in life; and that’s not the only benefit. There are many reasons why choosing a career in early childhood can be a truly impactful career choice.

Making a difference: It’s not a cliché

As an early childhood educator, you’re helping children succeed in their first years of school and help reduce the early achievement gap. Several studies have examined the long-term impacts of early learning education/preschool, with evidence of lasting long-term outcomes, including higher earnings, better health, better focus, and less criminal activity.

Children are learning essential life skills (that you will teach them!) that can stay with them forever. You’ll be dedicating your professional career to helping children grow into responsible, confident learners.

Fun work environment: There’s not a dull moment 

Unlike a traditional office setting, being an early childhood educator is fun! Your days will be colorful, playful, and creative. Forget about your job ever becoming boring! Every day is different when working with kids – they are full of surprises, and they say the funniest things. And that moment when you see they’ve mastered a new task or made a discovery is inspiring!

Creativity and problem solving: Invaluable skills

When working with young children, you’ll tap into your inner child a lot! You will see aspects of yourself come out in creative educational activities that in a normal work setting might not exist. You’ll also become a master at problem-solving! Every child is different. Their learning styles, life experiences, and interests all vary considerably – and finding new ways to challenge them and learn new skills is essential.

A career that grows with you: your journey supported

You’re not alone! If you are thinking of pursuing a career as an early childhood educator or establishing a licensed family child care home, the Early Learning Coalition of Pinellas County can help. We provide the training, coaching, and curriculum support you need for free!

We also offer college scholarships to support early childhood educators in their educational development. We want you to have an impactful career in early learning with the tools you need to succeed.

If you have questions, please call ELC’s Quality Specialist Coach at 727-914-3720 or chat with a representative online at ELCPinellas.org.

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