A degree in early childhood development gives teachers the skills they need to help every child learn. This education in proven theories and practices is the building block on which to base lesson plans that will help each child achieve. Practically speaking, however, teachers of young children need to possess or hone certain qualities that will enable them to work with and motivate young children, while finding the joy and success in each and every day.
Enthusiasm for Children
According to the National Association for the Education of Young Children, the most important characteristic for teachers of early childhood development is enthusiasm and passion for children. This goes well beyond enjoying being will children. It means wanting to make a difference to each and every child. Teachers must have the drive to unlock every child's door to learning, overcoming any obstacle a child may have.
Patience and Humor
Working with young children all day takes huge measures of patience. The nature of their age makes young children rambunctious, with short attention spans and little self control. Every child is different, too, making the job even more challenging. After a long, tiring day full of challenges, teachers of young children must come back and meet the same and new challenges the next day. A patient nature, combined with a sense of humor, helps teachers take the ups and downs of every day in stride, while focusing on the end goals.
Teachers need to have learned effective skills for working with young children and for communicating with them at their level. Then teachers need to be able to communicate with the child's parents about his needs, skills, problems and achievements, so both parties can help the child without undue emotion. On a daily basis, the teacher must communicate with other teachers who may teach her class, as well as the school principal and other administrators. The more effectively the teacher can communicate to all involved -- both orally and in writing -- the more rewarding and positive her job will be.
Respect of Differences
Every child comes to school with a unique personality and learning style. To reach each child and teach each child effectively, teachers must respect these differences and work with each child's style, rather than try to force the child to adapt to another style. In our global society, teachers must also be prepared for multicultural classrooms with many ethnicities, cultures and traditions represented. A classroom where these differences are not merely tolerated but are welcomed and embraced creates an open and exciting learning atmosphere.
Creativity and Flexibility
Planning lessons that will engage young children and educate them at the same time takes creativity. Adapting lessons to individual learning styles requires flexibility. Regardless of how organized a teacher is, and how well she has planned the day, she needs to remain flexible to handle all the glitches that can throw off the day. She must also be willing to change plans and ideas as needed. A successful early childhood development teacher will use creativity and flexibility to make every day a positive one for her and for the class.
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