6 Signs You Were Meant To Be an Early Childhood Educator
Sprott Shaw ECE Students at work!
An Early Childhood Educator creates a safe and interactive learning environment where children develop social skills, build self-esteem, and become lifelong learners—making it one of the most important and rewarding careers in education. In fact, Early Childhood Educators (ECEs) can play a critical role in a child’s growth as 85% of brain development occurs before the age of 5.
Have you ever wondered if a career in Early Childhood Education would be right for you? Children can have a variety of developmental needs that require passionate and patient educators in order to thrive. If you have these traits, a career as an ECE may be right for you!
1. You Love Working with Kids
The most important (and obvious!) question to ask yourself when considering a career in Early Childhood Education is if you enjoy being around children. Children can tell whether you are actually engaged with them and will often take it personally if you are not. If you are genuinely excited to be there and passionate about what you do, they will be excited to learn with you!
That passion and drive to make a difference in their lives can also help you persevere through any obstacle you encounter in this challenging but rewarding career. Every child is unique, and as an ECE, you are willing to go the extra mile to ensure no child is left behind.
2. You Understand that Every Child is Different
There is no one-size-fits-all when it comes to education, even for twins!
An Early Childhood Educator needs to understand that children have different learning styles, personalities, and cultural backgrounds.
Effective educators seek to adapt their teaching styles and techniques to the individual needs of the children in their care. As an educator, you must be ready to create an environment that celebrates these differences so that every child is given the opportunity to thrive.
3. You Are Patient, Creative, and Enthusiastic
In a recent survey regarding Early Childhood Educators, participants indicated that enthusiasm and motivation are two of the most important qualities for an ECE.
Planning and engaging young children in lessons that will grow their cognitive and socio-emotional skills requires patience, creativity, and lots of energy. Early Childhood Educators need to be able to think quickly and remain calm in every situation.
Working with children can be unpredictable and taxing but equally rewarding.
Do you tirelessly commit to things you are passionate about? Every day as an Early Childhood Educator is different, and dedication is needed to respond to whatever challenges come your way.
Being dedicated is more than just showing up to do the job. ECEs may have to handle challenging situations where they must advocate for a child’s well-being or development. In these situations, perseverance is essential to make sure that your voice is heard.
5. You Are Good at Communication and Organization
Young children thrive in structured environments where they know what to expect and what is expected of them. A strong ECE will have activities and transitions planned down to the minute and understands how to communicate expectations to every student.
Working with children also means talking with parents regularly about their child’s progress, needs, and achievements. Educators who are empathetic and build relationships with their students will be in a better position to answer questions and provide solutions for any challenges a student may be facing. Clear and professional communication is crucial as parents will always be curious as to what their children have been up to while in your care.
Being able to communicate with children and their parents is an essential skill for Early Childhood Educators
A child’s development is never a straight line—when setbacks occur, being a strong communicator is the key to a successful resolution.
6. You Want to Improve the Quality of Early Childhood Learning and Care
The early childhood sector is constantly growing and changing across the province. In fact, the B.C. government recently released the Childcare BC initiative to increase support and wages for childcare workers to meet growing demands. If you are passionate about child development and want to be part of a dynamic field, then becoming an ECE is for you.
There has never been a better time to start a career in Early Childhood Education! If you’ve read this list and are interested in becoming an ECE, our Early Childhood Education diploma program provides the training you need to start your career. Our 77-week program includes monthly start dates, no waitlists, practicum placement, and job placement assistance. Contact us today to learn how to start your ECE career!
