Early Childhood Educators/(ECEs)
work with children in nursery schools, daycares, and similar settings. Most ECEs work with children between the ages of 2 and 5. However, some daycares take children up to 10 years old after school hours. ECEs need to understand how children learn and develop, not just cognitively, but physically, socially, and emotionally as well. They are trained to design games and activities that are fun, but also educational in specific ways. Teaching small children the alphabet requires a different strategy than teaching them why they should share toys with classmates, or why it’s not okay to hit people when they’re angry or frustrated. ECEs need to be creative and resourceful in planning activities that will help children develop and build their self-esteem, as well as keep them interested and motivated. They also need to establish routines that will allow children to feel comfortable and secure. Educators often use art and craft projects to encourage children to be creative and learn to express themselves. Having children listen to music and learn songs is important in the same way. Good educators build close relationships with the parents of the children they care for. They talk to parents to learn about the culture and sometimes the language of the child’s home. Educators and parents also share information about the children’s personalities, social skills, general development, and physical health. Some ECEs specialize in working with children with special needs due to physical, developmental, or behavioural problems.
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