Title: Investigate the education/training requirements of identified careers in early childhood education.
Course: Introduction to Early Childhood Education (19153-36) > Section: Exploring Early Childhood Education Careers

Investigation should yield requirements for entering and progressing in each identified career, including professional licensure, certification, and specific skills needed for success in the field of early childhood education.

Process/Skill Questions:

Thinking

- What should the minimal education/training requirement be for an entry-level position in early childhood education?
- What are the advantages of certification in this field?
- What is a CDA (Child Development Associate)?
- How is the credential obtained?

Communication

- How are education/training opportunities discovered?
- What communication skills are necessary for success in the identified careers?

Leadership

- How can training and education help one develop leadership skills in working with young children?
- How does licensing or certification lead to greater opportunities for employment in the early childhood education field?
- What licensing or certificates are available to early childhood education professionals?

Management

- How can education, training, and certification as an early childhood education professional be obtained?
- What challenges might one face in pursuing a career in early childhood education? (e.g., finances, location, family)
- What are some pathways to a teaching license in Virginia?