Early childhood education is the name given to the group of educational practices, tailored to children aged 2 – 5 years old. These teachings help to shape the way children learn, develop and interact with their peers, preparing them for their next steps in life.
In this blog we will go into depth about why early childhood education is important and the role that great teachers play in a child’s lifetime.
Elements of early childhood education
Early childhood education focuses on giving the child opportunities to develop a variety of skills, and sets children up for future success. Components of early childhood education often include:
- Brain development and cognitive functions: marking milestones in problem solving, memory and recall, and cause and effect are all measures of the success of early childhood teachings
- Social skills and making friends: encouraging sharing, empathy, cooperation and teamwork and understanding others feelings
- Motor skills and physical growth: interacting with the environment around them, hand eye coordination and active play are all ways in which these abilities are developed
Benefits of early childhood education
Quality childcare is imperative to give children the best possible start in life. During a child’s formative years, they are incredible influenced by their peers, teachers and the world around them. Key developmental milestones often occur during this time, and it’s important that children are given the opportunity to not only thrive but be prepared for their next stages. Key benefits that early childhood education can offer include:
- Great communication skills
- A level of social awareness and emotional maturity
- Creativity and curiosity
- Academic achievement
- Overall physical and mental well-being
- Independence, responsibility and accountability
- Respect for others, and the understanding to treat everyone equally
Who delivers early childhood education?
Early childhood education services are available in childcare centres, preschools, family day care, in-home care, and in playgroups. In centres or preschools, early childhood education would be taught by a range of different childcare professionals.
Early childhood educator
The role of an early childhood educator is to support learning and encourage children to be confident in themselves. Key aspects of this role include:
- Observing and assessing development
- Creating educational learning paths, tailored to the needs of each child
- Promoting a healthy, safe environment in which children can grow
- Being a stellar role model
- Building strong relationships with the child and their families
These roles typically require a Certificate III or Diploma in Early Childhood Education and Care.
Early childhood teacher
An early childhood teacher’s duties would typically extend past that of an educator, as they would be in charge in leading the teachings for the day. Alongside the educators, an early childhood teacher would:
- Design curriculums in line with the Early Years Learning Framework (EYLF)
- Maintain excellence through compliance
- Lead teams of educators to ensure each child receives the care and attention they deserve
- Monitor progress and keep progress reports and other documentation up to date
- Foster an environment where the child feed safe, respected and included
To be an early childhood teacher, you would need a Bachelor of Early Childhood Education.
Before and after school care
These educators will look after children before and after regular school hours, to cover when their parents need to be at work. This role doesn’t always require a childhood qualification, as they are not necessarily delivering teachings that are in line with the curriculum. Typical duties include:
- Activity based care – engaging the children in an activity that keeps them occupied and encourages physical, mental and social development. These activities could be arts and crafts, sport, games or helping with homework
- Follow hygiene protocol and maintain a safe environment
- Provide guidance and support to others who are in a similar role. This is based on experience level
- Be able to resolve conflict and communicate with children effectively
Centre director
After obtaining qualifications and years of experience in the field, educators can move up into a director role. In charge of leading a childcare centre, a director will be involved in:
- Program development and ensuring it meets compliance and quality standards, whilst being appropriate for a child’s age and individual needs
- Communicating effectively with parents and families and update on a child’s progress, whilst building strong relationships
- Managing finances and budgets, making sure the centre is equipped with all the resources it needs to deliver programs effectively
- Overseeing daily operations so everything runs smoothly and in accordance with the daily schedule
How do I get involved in early childhood education?
The childcare industry is a rewarding path taken by many. Offering career progression and development and multiple working options to suit your lifestyle, there is a role for everyone within the sector.
Having an early childhood education qualification is not essential but will greatly enhance your career prospects. Alongside studying at an education institution, traineeships and apprenticeships are a great way to make that first step onto the career ladder.
If early childhood education is a role you would like to explore, or if you are looking for a way to advance your career to meet your goals, view our jobs board for available opportunities or reach out to our team today