5 Myths About Working In Early Childhood Education

Being a preschool educator isn’t just about teaching kids the ABCs. SEED Institute, a leader in grooming early childhood professionals, debunks some myths and show us how fulfilling this profession can be.

Portrait of Tammy Strobel
Being a preschool educator isn’t just about teaching kids the ABCs. SEED Institute, a leader in grooming early childhood professionals, debunks some myths and show us how fulfilling this profession can be.
My Reading Room

Myth #1: Anyone can teach. You just need to like working with children.

Reality: Of course, having a passion to work with children will be advantageous in a career in early childhood education. But it’s not a job that just anyone can apply for. To be a qualified preschool teacher in Singapore, one is required to take up specialised courses to acquire the Workforce Skills Qualifiations (WSQ) Professional Diploma in Early Childhood Care & Education.

Myth #2: A preschool teacher’s work is all about routine care.

Reality: Many shun preschool teaching due to the assumption that all they do is change diapers, shower children, and prepare for nap and meal times. While a certain degree of routine care is expected, preschool teachers also have the responsibility of educating and cultivating young lives. The preschool teacher is probably the next adult that children spend the most time with, so it’s essential that the teachers support their mental and emotional development.

Myth #3: It’s an exceptionally tough job. Preschool teachers have to work 12-hour shifts.

Reality: No one could possibly perform at their best if they work for 12 hours straight through the week! Manpower regulations still apply for preschool teachers. In a full-day childcare service or preschool, there are typically two different shifts and teachers work around that schedule.

Myth #4: Preschool teachers need not be highly qualified, as they are only required to teach young children.

Reality: Preschool professionals are educators in their own right and are responsible for the daily execution of the curriculum and activities for the children. They have to look out for each and every child, and track their progress to see if they have difficulty grasping concepts. On top of that, preschool teachers also need to engage parents to be involved in the development of their children. While you do need higher education to teach preschoolers, the academic requirements for early childhood education courses are minimal. To find out more, do contact SEED Institute.

Myth #5: It’s just about teaching the ABCs and singing songs.

Reality: You’re so wrong if you think all preschool teachers do is sing nursery rhymes. Teachers not only need to plan and execute a syllabus, they also have to be prepared for any changes in the lesson plan caused by disruptions, like a bird flying into the classroom. They have to be quick on their feet to either make sure the bird doesn’t cause much of a distraction, or use the bird as a learning tool about animals and life on earth.