Want a Career That Grows with You? Early Childhood Education is Just the Beginning
Posted On August 18,2025
If you want a career that doesn’t require a four-year degree in a traditional university setting that will open up many different doors, early childhood education is a great option where you grow alongside your students and find your path to the career that is perfect for you. The best teachers are those who love to learn, but even if you’re ready to finish your time as a student, if you love working with young children, want a career where you’ll be active and engaged every single day, and get to play while you make a difference, a career in education can be perfect. But does a career as an early childhood educator start and end in the preschool classroom? The answer is a definite no! While many teachers thrive with their class and are content to continue to teach, there are numerous opportunities to grow and evolve as an early childhood educator.
Transforming Classroom Dynamics for Modern Learning
Once you finish your early childhood education program, school starts again for you in a completely different way, making the transition from student to teacher. During your program, you’ll gain practical experience working with children under the supervision of experienced teachers, but taking on your own classroom can be an intimidating first step to take. However, if you trust in yourself, your training, and your instincts, you can have a successful first year teaching. There are many different things you can do, articles you can read, and advice you can take as you prepare for your first classroom, but the most important thing you can do is focus on reflecting and adapting as you make it through every day. If you love working with young children and inspiring the next generation of students, you can transition from student to teacher.
Most first-year early childhood teachers will begin their careers in a daycare or preschool classroom. Some first-year teachers will have their own classrooms with teaching assistants, some will have a co-teacher who shares the role equally, and some will be members of a larger teaching team. Whatever your set-up, you will spend time that first year completing the metamorphosis from student to teacher. The best new teachers will recognize the value in finding a mentor in their school who can help them through the first few months on the job.
Preparing for Your Next Step
Most early childhood educators start in a daycare or preschool classroom for their first role. Not only will you feel prepared for this role when you finish your program, but it can also give you the best opportunity to gain experience. Once you’ve spent some time in the classroom, you can think about where you want to go next.
Love the organization and leadership opportunities that working as a director can bring? Many early childhood educators will be well qualified to work as a daycare or preschool director, or even own their facility, once they gain some experience.
Love working with children when they are going through challenging times? Child life specialists work in different settings, like hospitals, using their knowledge of child development and connection techniques to help children through stressful situations.
Love working with children, but find that you’re better in one-on-one or small groups instead of working with a large classroom? Working as a nanny can give you the individual connection you’re craving, and many families will seek out candidates with early childhood degrees.
Want to travel? Resorts, cruise ships, and vacation destinations are often looking for childcare specialists.
There are many different roles you can move into. Some roles require experience, some will need additional training or education, and some only require your initial degree and an interest in the role! Once you’ve gotten your feet wet in the classroom, you can decide where you’d like your next step to take you.
Diving Deeper into Child Development
A two-year degree in early childhood education is a great way to start your career, but if you are interested in diving deeper into child development and early education, you can use your program as a solid foundation and start exploring additional classes and certifications. Child development, literacy education, and educational leadership are just some of the ways to further your education when you are itching to learn more.
Start Your Career Off Right with a Degree in Early Childhood Education
Becoming an early childhood educator doesn’t need to start with four years – or more! – in a traditional four-year program. The best teachers begin with a solid educational foundation, and then develop most of their skills in the classroom, working directly with children. With the demand high for early childhood educators, the time is right to pursue a two-year degree in early childhood education. With flexible programs, you can balance your education while working part or full-time or taking care of your family.
When you want a career that will open many doors leading to many different paths, early childhood education is a great choice. Teaching has its challenges, but it is also incredibly rewarding. Your days will never be boring, you’ll know you are making a difference, and you’ll get to see your students grow and develop each year. When you’re ready, look for an ECE program that focuses on training you for a long and successful career.
Ready to launch a rewarding career that grows with you? Contact Athena Career Academy today to learn more.