Every occupation and industry has its myths and conceptions. Unless you actually work in the field, it’s easy to develop some false ideas about what it’s all about, right?
Early childhood education (ECEC) is no exception.
People often think working in early childhood education is just like babysitting, but that’s not true at all.
This myth along with plenty of others can give a wrong impression about what a career in early childhood education has to offer — and its important role in communities.
If you’ve heard rumours that are making you hesitate about this meaningful profession, keep reading to learn the real deal about working in early childhood education.
Working as an ECEC is boring
Early childhood educators have one of the most fascinating jobs in the world. They get to watch babies and toddlers grow and evolve, right before their eyes.
Kids go through so many changes in their early years, and as an early childhood educator, you get a front row seat — and play a major role — in encouraging that development.
Think about helping a child spell their name for the very first time, or watching toddlers learn how to make friends, share, solve problems, and work in teams.
No day is the same in this career. Early childhood educators are always learning and growing, and helping their tiny students do the same.
Early childhood educators are just glorified babysitters
This is an especially annoying myth that has been around for far too long. Any professional ECEC who has supervised a group of babies and toddlers, taught them key skills and helped them adjust to classroom learning knows how ridiculous this myth truly is.
Babysitters look after children. Early childhood educators teach them. In fact, they teach them an astonishingly wide range of skills, including:
- Basic reading and writing
- Language and communication
- Social skills (how to make friends, share, work with a team)
- Basic numeracy
- Basic scientific concepts
- Independent problem solving
- Self-respect and respect for others
- Following instructions
- Responsibility
- Managing emotions
- Gross and fine motor skills
Early childhood educators prepare kids for school and for life. This includes everything from academic skills to social and emotional development. It’s an incredibly crucial job, which is why finding the right training is so important. AXIS Institute offers in-depth training and practical experience to help you thrive in this field.
Learn more about our Early Childhood Education & Care courses.
The schedule is rigid
Working in early childhood education can still be flexible. You might choose a casual or part-time role, or you might adjust your start and end times depending on what works for you and your employer. Since it’s not a standard 9-5 job, you’ll have more chances to balance work with other parts of your life.
“It’s a job, not a career”
This idea is wrong. Early childhood educators can become entrepreneurs and start their own daycare businesses.
They can also become instructors and teach early childhood education training at local colleges. ECECs can specialise in working with kids who have learning challenges, or support teachers in kindergartens and elementary schools.
Or you can pursue further training in University.
No matter which path you take, one thing is certain: this career requires lifelong learning. You will keep challenging yourself and picking up new skills over the years.
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By clearing up these myths, we can see how complex and rewarding early childhood education really is. It’s a lively field with many chances to grow and succeed.
With high job demand, fulfilling work, flexible hours and many pathways to choose from, early childhood education and care has all the ingredients of a smart career.
For more information about pursuing a certification in Early Childhood Education, contact us through this form here!