10,000+ Reasons to Get Your Early Childhood Degree

Why an Early Childhood Degree Matters

According to the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC), children who participate in high-quality early childhood programs are more likely to:

• Succeed in school. Children who attend quality preschool programs are more likely to enter kindergarten with strong academic skills and be on track for success in later grades.
• Be healthy. Children in quality early childhood programs are more likely to have healthy eating and exercise habits, and they are less likely to be overweight or obese.
• Be social and emotional learners. Children in quality early childhood programs learn how to interact with others, resolve conflicts, and manage their emotions.
• Be responsible citizens. Children in quality early childhood programs learn how to work together, share, and take turns. They also learn about the importance of following rules and respecting others.

Benefits of an Early Childhood Degree

• Job security. The demand for qualified early childhood educators is growing rapidly. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the employment of preschool and kindergarten teachers is projected to grow 7% from 2019 to 2029.
• High earning potential. The median annual salary for preschool and kindergarten teachers was $29,330 in May 2020. The top 10% of earners made more than $47,780, and the bottom 10% earned less than $21,160.
• Career advancement opportunities. Early childhood educators with a degree have more opportunities for career advancement than those without a degree. They can move into positions such as program director, curriculum coordinator, or special education teacher.
• Personal satisfaction. Working with young children can be a rewarding and fulfilling career. Early childhood educators have the opportunity to make a positive impact on the lives of children and their families.

6-8 FAQs

1. What is an early childhood degree?
An early childhood degree is a bachelor's degree that prepares students to work with young children in a variety of settings, such as preschools, kindergartens, and childcare centers.

2. What are the requirements for an early childhood degree?
The requirements for an early childhood degree vary from school to school, but typically include coursework in child development, early childhood education, and teaching methods.

3. How long does it take to get an early childhood degree?
A full-time student can complete an early childhood degree in four years. Part-time students may take longer to complete the program.

4. What are the career options for early childhood degree holders?
Early childhood degree holders can work as preschool teachers, kindergarten teachers, childcare providers, and special education teachers. They can also work in related fields, such as early intervention, child welfare, and family support.

5. How much do early childhood degree holders make?
The median annual salary for preschool and kindergarten teachers was $29,330 in May 2020. The top 10% of earners made more than $47,780, and the bottom 10% earned less than $21,160.

6. What are the benefits of getting an early childhood degree?
The benefits of getting an early childhood degree include job security, high earning potential, career advancement opportunities, and personal satisfaction.

4 Useful Tables

Table 1: Benefits of Early Childhood Education

Table 2: Requirements for an Early Childhood Degree

Table 3: Career Options for Early Childhood Degree Holders

Table 4: Salary Information for Early Childhood Degree Holders