What is your experience as an ECT?

[Michelleteddy2004]

A few years ago I worked as a trainee at a daycare with toddlers and babies, I honestly didn’t enjoy the toddler room and I found the baby room ok but I did one shift in the preschool room and had so much fun. I didn’t stay at the job for long because I got pregnant and now I’m thinking about studying to become an ECT however, will this ensure that I get to teach the preschool room or is it possible I could be placed with toddlers/babies? Also, what does a day look like for an ECT? Is it very demanding?

[Lorina]

As you consider studying to become an Early Childhood Teacher (ECT), it's important to note that while your training and certification will qualify you to teach preschool children, it doesn't guarantee that you'll always be placed in the preschool room. Staffing and placement decisions often depend on the needs of the center, the number of enrolled children in each age group, and your specific skills and experiences.

That said, having a preference and expressing it during job interviews can increase your chances of being placed in a preschool room. Additionally, gaining experience and demonstrating your passion and skill in working with preschoolers can help you secure such positions in the future.

A Day in the Life of an ECT
The role of an ECT can be demanding but also very rewarding. Here's a general outline of what a day might look like:

Morning:

Preparation: Arrive early to prepare the classroom, set up activities, and review the day's lesson plans.

Welcoming Children: Greet children and parents, help children settle in, and perform a quick health check.

Morning Activities: Engage children in structured activities such as circle time, reading, singing, and educational games.

Mid-Morning:

Learning Activities: Facilitate hands-on learning activities, arts and crafts, and outdoor play. This time is often used for implementing curriculum-based lessons.

Snack Time: Supervise children during snack time, ensuring proper hygiene and addressing any food allergies.

Late Morning to Early Afternoon:

Group Projects: Guide children in group projects that encourage teamwork and social skills.

Lunchtime: Oversee lunchtime, promote healthy eating habits, and assist children as needed.

Afternoon:

Rest Time: Provide a quiet and comfortable environment for rest or nap time.

Afternoon Activities: Continue with planned activities, outdoor play, or special projects.

End of the Day:

Reflection and Story Time: Gather children for a reflection session or storytime, summarizing the day's activities and learning.

Dismissal: Assist children with packing up and saying goodbye, ensuring they are safely picked up by authorized individuals.

Demands of the Role
Planning and Preparation: Creating lesson plans and preparing materials require time and creativity.

Child Supervision: Constant vigilance to ensure children's safety and well-being.

Parent Communication: Regular communication with parents about their child's progress and any concerns.

Record Keeping: Maintaining records of children's development, attendance, and incidents.

Physical and Emotional Stamina: Working with young children can be physically demanding and requires patience and emotional resilience.

While being an ECT is demanding, many find it fulfilling to watch children grow and develop under their guidance. If you have a passion for early childhood education, the rewards can far outweigh the challenges.

,
Lorina