Starting Your Career With Early Childhood Training Online

Across the country, there are millions of young  children just waiting to be taught.

According to the National Center for Education Statistics, 38 percent of 3-year-olds were enrolled in preprimary programs in 2015, and even higher percentages of 4-year-olds and 5-year-olds are also involved in these programs (67 and 87 percent respectively). To ensure the best possible care is being provided to these kids, there is high demand for qualified early childhood educators in cities across the country.

Education at any level is a rewarding career path that will challenge your ability to solve problems and think creatively.  If you are starting your career with early childhood training online, the following three steps can help you get started: 

1. Set clear goals
What do you want your career in early childhood education to look like? Thinking through your plans and setting clear goals are important first steps in beginning your new career. It may even help to write your objectives down. Having the physical reminder can keep you on track as you progress toward your goals.  

Creating clear objectives also involves determining the setting in which you wish to work. Research your community or the area where you wish to be employed, then consider asking a current teacher or administrator for an informational interview. During this meeting, you can ask questions about the steps you should take to advance your career in education. Working in early childhood education is a rewarding career option even if you don't have a background in child care.

2. Find a mentor
When pursuing a new career, don't feel obligated to do it on your own. Finding an experienced person to serve as your mentor can help you shape your career and professional aspirations. Career coach Kathy Caprino recommended choosing someone that you already have a relationship with, as opposed to a stranger that you admire from afar. However, the person doesn't need to be an intimate friend. You can use your network to connect with someone that you haven't worked with closely in the past.

And don't forget to pay it forward. You should continually be looking for someone that you can mentor.   

3. Advance your education
Once you're ready to begin your new career in early childhood education, your first step is to review your academic and professional qualifications. Depending on the position you wish to obtain, you may need to earn a particular degree or certification. For example, many professionals choose to complete the Child Development Associate (CDA) Credential™ to improve their career prospects. 

Do you have your plan in place? Are you ready to realize your dream of earning a CDA? To complete your CDA Credential™ and take a big step forward as an educator, consider enrolling in early childhood education online training courses from ProSolutions Training. We offer a variety of classes that will give you the tools to be a successful and effective childhood educator.