Education
Education & Training
Requirements for becoming an early childhood educator vary widely from state to state. Although many states have minimal requirements, others require ECEs to obtain formal post-secondary education or earn a professional designation.
ECEs generally need at least a high school diploma. Some states also require an associate or bachelor’s degree in early childhood education or child development. Others require a combination of education and child care experience. Directors of daycares or other child care programs are usually required to complete additional training.
The Council for Professional Recognition offers the Child Development Associate (CDA) designation to early childhood educators who can demonstrate at least 120 hours of formal child care training and 480 hours of experience. The CDA credential is required in some states. The National Child Care Association (NCCA) also offers a professional credential for early childhood educators.
Regardless of the state requirements, many employers prefer to hire educators with formal ECE education or a professional designation. See the Other Resources section for links to more information about professional designations and state licensing requirements.
ECEs generally need at least a high school diploma. Some states also require an associate or bachelor’s degree in early childhood education or child development. Others require a combination of education and child care experience. Directors of daycares or other child care programs are usually required to complete additional training.
The Council for Professional Recognition offers the Child Development Associate (CDA) designation to early childhood educators who can demonstrate at least 120 hours of formal child care training and 480 hours of experience. The CDA credential is required in some states. The National Child Care Association (NCCA) also offers a professional credential for early childhood educators.
Regardless of the state requirements, many employers prefer to hire educators with formal ECE education or a professional designation. See the Other Resources section for links to more information about professional designations and state licensing requirements.
Related College Programs
- Child Development
- Early Childhood Education and Teaching
- Kindergarten/Preschool Education and Teaching
Other Suggested Qualifications
If you want to become an early childhood educator, you should be sure that you really love children and can communicate well with them. Experience as a part-time, summer, or volunteer employee in a daycare facility or community center is the best way to find out if you are suited for a career in early childhood education. Strong English skills are essential.
Courses in first aid and CPR would be an asset, and may be required by some employers. A police records check and proof of immunization are usually required as well. Fire safety training is also recommended, as is special training in child abuse detection and prevention.
Courses in first aid and CPR would be an asset, and may be required by some employers. A police records check and proof of immunization are usually required as well. Fire safety training is also recommended, as is special training in child abuse detection and prevention.
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