Early childhood education is the basis of the early childhood development training and teachers or early childhood educators, caregivers and practitioners need to be qualified based on their level of engagement with the child and their profession. Professions such as daycare directors and preschool teachers, child care workers and teacher's assistants all require formal training. Degrees in early childhood development/ education are necessary for these professions.
Childcare center directors oversee the child care and child development activities and programs at childcare facilities. They are also responsible for the administrative duties related to running the facility. This profession usually requires a minimum of an Associates degree in early childhood education along with an additional 3000 hours of work experience with children and or a bachelor's degree in elementary education. Ongoing training in areas such as health and safety, special needs children, child welfare, financial management and legal issues in childcare are also recommended.
Daycare and preschool teachers are responsible for educating young children and work at daycare centers, public or private preschools and elementary schools. Daycare and preschool teachers should possess a certificate or a two year degree in early childhood education to teach young children.
Teacher assistants are also known as teacher's aides and are responsible for helping teachers in both clerical and instructional. They engage in activities that involve helping students with the teachers lessons and learning materials provided in the classroom. Other tasks include supervising students in the playground and lunch room. Employers' requirements for training in this profession of early childhood development range from a high school diploma along with experience in childcare to a two year degree or certificate in early childhood education.
Child care workers care for and teach children that are in pre-kindergarten age groups. There are three categories of child care workers which include those working in child care centers, family child care providers and private household workers. Training for this early childhood development profession can require a high school diploma along with experience in working with children. Additionally a Child Development Associate (CDA) certificate and a two year to four year degree in child development or early childhood education is often necessary for those working in child care centers.