Important Facts About These Occupations
| | Teacher Assistant | Preschool Teacher | Child Care Worker |
|---|
| Median Annual Salary (2018) | $26,970 | $29,780 | $23,240 |
| Job Outlook (2018-2028) | 4% growth | 7% growth | 2% growth |
| Key Skills | Communication skills, patience, and resourcefulness | Detail-oriented and organizational skills; physical stamina | First-aid and interpersonal skills |
| Work Environment | Public and private schools or childcare centers; often part-time | Public and private schools or childcare centers; often on a 10-month schedule | Child care centers or at home; some irregular hours |
Source: US Bureau of Labor Statistics
Career Options
While you could continue your education at a four-year college or university and go on to become a licensed teacher, you also might pursue a position that doesn't require a bachelor's degree. Many associate's-degree holders become teacher's assistants, preschool teachers, or child care workers.
Preschool Teacher
Preschool teachers instruct and take care of students, typically between the ages of three and five. Through the use of creative activities that incorporate games and music, they develop curricula that nurture children and encourage their development while preparing them for kindergarten. While qualifications vary depending on the hiring schools and the states in which they are located, many preschool teachers are required to hold two-year teaching degrees in early childhood education.
Child Care Worker
Like preschool teachers, child care workers look after pre-kindergarten children. They typically work in residential homes or child care centers. Along with managing the safety of children, they may help children develop good fitness and eating habits, as well as social skills. Requirements for becoming a child care worker vary greatly by employer and state. Those who work in care centers or care for several children in their homes are often required to hold associate's degrees and state licensure.
Teacher's Assistant
You may be asking, what can I do with an early childhood education degree besides teach? Although this degree prepares you for education, it is possible to support teachers rather than teach yourself. Teacher's assistants, also known as teacher's aides, help main educators with classroom lessons and activities. They also perform clerical duties, such as grading tests or preparing instructional materials. They may be responsible for supervising students in classrooms, lunchrooms, or playgrounds. Career advancement typically is limited to those who have obtained higher education. Teacher's assistants who go on to earn bachelor's degrees may receive tuition reimbursement from their employers.
