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Careers in the Early Childhood Workforce

Intro

The early childhood workforce includes individuals from a variety of settings with many different backgrounds and education who serve children from birth to third grade. A role in this profession can offer countless opportunities to support children, families and their surrounding networks.

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Work to be proud of

Access to high-quality early childhood programs is key to children's rapid brain development in the first few years of life. The quality of these programs begins with highly competent and skilled providers who can effectively support each child's unique qualities.

Each member of the early childhood workforce has a different story to tell and a different path into the profession. Yet one theme remains the same: The enormous impact that can be made in the life of a child and their family.

Career paths

There are many ways to join and grow in an early childhood career. Entry-level roles, certifications, professional development and higher education are all options to help you reach the positions you want.

Not everyone joins the workforce with experience in fields like education and child development. Many people follow non-traditional paths, with backgrounds in areas such as geography, anthropology, mathematics, public health and more.

It's up to each person to decide if, when and how they want to move through the field.

Download the Making a Difference in the Early Years brochure (PDF) to learn more about early childhood careers. The brochure is also available in Spanish, Somali and Hmong.

Cover of the brochure Minnesota's Early Childhood Workforce: Making a Difference in the Early Years
Download the brochure PDF to learn more about career options.
Achieve’s Virtual Career Guide can help you discover career options and opportunities for you to grow and advance.
Explore early childhood careers

Need help funding your education and training? Find grants and scholarships.

Stories from the field

A school-based Pre-K teacher

Learn how Jessica Bunker became a school-based pre-K teacher and how she supports children's learning through play, exploration, and hands-on learning.

An Early Childhood Special Education teacher

Lis Moriarty shares her journey into the field, the skills needed every day, and the difference you can make supporting young children with developmental needs.

An Early Childhood Screening Coordinator

Jenny Berkeland explains her role in supporting children and families through Early Childhood Screening and resources to help children thrive from the very start.

Hear from more early childhood professionals.
Watch more Stories from the Field