Early childhood education gives children tools and techniques for personal and academic success.
A degree in early childhood education trains individuals to teach children between three and eight-years-old. This bachelor's degree opens several doors for jobs within school districts. Jobs are not limited to the classroom only. Early childhood education is an important foundation for the academic future of students.
Elementary Teacher
An early childhood education degree prepares teachers for the classroom of an elementary school. Elementary school teachers are responsible for the academic and personal growth of school-age children. This degree will train teachers on the best ways to enforce behavior and and maintain order in a classroom full of young students. Teachers are also responsible for evaluating each student's performance, behavior and physical health.
This degree offers teaching methods and instructional guidance to meet the needs of various types of learners. Meeting with parents and maintaining accurate student records is also an important aspect of this job. In May 2009, the mean annual salary of elementary school teachers was $53,150, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Preschool Teacher
Becoming a preschool teacher is ideal for those studying early childhood education in college. In May 2009, the mean annual wage of preschool teachers was $27,450, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Preschool teachers instruct children up to five years old in physical and intellectual growth. They also help children become socially prepared to advance into kindergarten. Preschool teachers understand the human behavior of young children, their interests and learning methods.
An early childhood education degree is required for most preschool teaching positions, as is state certification. Degree training also helps teachers in assessing learning disorders and the psychological needs of preschool-age children.
School Counselor
The median annual income of school counselors was $51,050 as of May 2008, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. The BLS also states that the overall employment of counselors is expected to increase by 18 percent between 2008 and 2018. Those studying early childhood education are ideal candidates to become school counselors. School counselors understand the emotional needs of children and mediate conflict situations. Counselors also help children with academic goals and planning. Counselors typically do not operate in the classroom, but they are responsible for the physiological well-being of students. The school counselor also provides guidance on school policies and how the school is run. The counselor implements healthy policies to ensure the growth of students.
Tags: childhood education, according Bureau, according Bureau Labor, Bureau Labor, Bureau Labor Statistics