Early Childhood Education (ECE) is widely linked to better outcomes for children as they grow into their K–12 years. Research shows that a robust early childhood (which begins at birth and runs through age 8) learning experience closes the school-readiness gap when that learning program focuses on the development of their emotional, social, physical, language and cognitive skills. Early childhood education is especially beneficial to students in low-income communities and to students who are dual-language learners.
The alignment of all stakeholders (researchers, parents and school leaders) on the importance of ECE means that there is a greater emphasis on employing qualified, educated early childhood leaders to direct the country’s preschools and childcare facilities. It is a job that requires not only a deep understanding of early childhood development, which can be learned through a college education, but also a passion for working with young minds.
There are many reasons why you might want to become an early childhood education director. Maybe you love working with children and want to help them succeed in school and in life. Maybe you’re passionate about education and want to make a difference in the lives of young children. Or maybe you want to share your love of working with young children with other educators in a leadership capacity. Whatever your reasons, if you are interested in becoming an early childhood education director, there are a few things you need to know. Read on for in-depth information on the skills and education you should have to pursue early childhood director jobs that are available.
What Does a Director of Early Childhood Education Do?
An early childhood education director is involved in the supervision and operation of a preschool or childcare facility. As a leader, the director is involved with all aspects of the center’s educational programming. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), directors typically:
- Supervise preschool teachers and childcare workers
- Hire and train new staff members
- Provide professional development opportunities for staff
- Establish policies and communicate them to staff and parents
- Develop educational programs and standards
- Maintain instructional excellence
- Assist staff in communicating with parents and children
- Meet with parents and staff to discuss students’ progress
- Prepare budgets and allocate program funds
- Ensure that facilities are maintained and cleaned according to state regulations
How to Become a Director of Early Childhood Education
An undergraduate degree in early childhood education is a great way to lay the foundation for working in this field. A Master of Arts in Early Childhood Education Leadership can launch you further into becoming a director of early childhood education. With a specialized degree in early childhood education, you will be prepared for roles in a variety of educational settings, where you are sure to gain strong skills and experiences that can lead to director positions. However, if you want to start a preschool of your own, you should be aware of the specific licensing and minimum work experience requirements in your state — which may be needed in addition to a degree.
If you are ready to embrace your future and start the journey toward becoming a leader in ECE, here are the steps to follow:
1. Earn your MA in early childhood education leadership
For those wondering how to become a leader in early childhood education, it all starts with your own education. A Master of Arts in Early Childhood Education Leadership can equip you with not only the skills, but also the confidence needed to lead in an environment populated by children and adults.
A graduate degree in early childhood education leadership prepares you to use research-based practices to address the instructional needs of young children in a developmentally appropriate way that is rooted in ethical practices and reflective of innovative technology. You will develop skills as an early childhood education leader and administrator to connect with everything you will learn about early learners and their needs.
2. Master critical skills
According to Indeed, some of the most important qualities required to work in childcare include:
Analytical skills
Early childhood education directors must monitor the progress of children in the classroom, analyze the data, and report the findings to parents and employees.
Classroom management skills
As a director, you will be responsible for maintaining order and developing the classroom culture. You will need to work on a variety of tasks, including the way you approach interpersonal relationships and how you manage the business side of things.
Communications skills
In childcare, you are working with kids, colleagues, and parents. As a director, you will need to know how to effectively deal with each group, with a strong foundation of written, verbal, and nonverbal communication techniques.
Compassion and empathy
You must be able to see things from a child’s perspective and recognize your responsibility as a caretaker with tremendous influence. It is important to come into the role with patience, understanding, and a genuine love for children.
Creative thinking
Creativity is king when working with children, and this is where you can have a lot of fun as an ECE director. Just imagine all the ways you can plan activities, games, and curriculum to inspire young minds.
Decision-making skills
Any leadership position requires you to make difficult decisions, and that’s no different in childcare. You’ll need to refine your decision-making process and be able to explain your reasoning to employees, students, and their parents.
Leadership skills
There is a difference between a manager and a leader, and you’ll learn that leading in a childcare facility is about much more than giving direction. You’ll need to find a leadership style that suits you and allows you to both supervise people and inspire them at the same time.
Organizational skills
From inventory to student files, early childhood education directors have their hands full. You’ll need to come to the job with strong organizational skills and the ability to multitask when necessary.
Physical stamina
Children keep you on your toes, there’s no question. Working in childcare, you’ll need to meet the physical demands of the job, which may involve carrying children, or carrying toys and equipment, on a daily basis.
Planning and instruction
Early childhood education directors set the agenda for their facilities. You’ll need to learn how to develop your curriculum and work with your staff to ensure lessons are delivered properly.
Problem-solving skills
Any leadership role requires you to put out multiple fires at once. In childcare, however, you’ll need to strengthen your problem-solving skills, as you’ll be dealing with children and adults.
3. Gain relevant experience
Before you move into a leadership role in the early childhood field, you will need some hands-on experience in the field of early childhood education. According to the BLS, “Most positions for preschool and childcare center directors require several years of experience in early childhood education. The length of experience required varies by job.”
4. Look into licensure
Though the rules vary by state, childcare facilities must meet a number of safety and licensing requirements, and staff members may have to pass a background check before they are hired. If you plan to become a director of a childcare facility, you will want to investigate the license or credential process before you begin your job search.
For more information on careers in this occupational field, please visit the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics website.
What You will Learn in Your Early Childhood Education Leadership Degree Program
A master’s degree program in early childhood education leadership will help you develop and refine those skills so that upon graduation, you are fully prepared to tackle the challenges of ECE administration. A two-year master’s degree program can lay the groundwork for the next stage of your career, increasing your knowledge of the foundations, functions, and current challenges in the field of early childhood education.
Ready to Become a Director of Early Childhood Education?
The path to any fulfilling career begins with your education. If you are ready to follow the aforementioned steps to achieve your goal of becoming an early childhood education director, talk to an advisor about your master’s degree in early childhood education leadership today.
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An online degree from the University of Arizona Global Campus does not lead to immediate teacher licensure in any state. If you want to become a classroom teacher, contact your state’s education authorities prior to enrolling at the University of Arizona Global Campus to determine what state-specific requirements you must complete before obtaining your teacher’s license.
Certain degree programs may not be available in all states.