Working with children is an incredibly rewarding and fulfilling career choice. Not only do you get to work with them at a critical stage of their development, but you also have the opportunity to make a positive impact on their lives. As the CEO of C&K Dr Sandra Cheeseman said, the one thing we have to be “…talking about is how fabulous it is to work in early childhood, how wonderful young children’s learning is, and how much you can get out of working with young children” (2023).

One of the best things about working with children is that every day is different; you’ll never be bored! Each day brings new challenges and new delights. As the children in your care grow, you will journey alongside them as they discover more about themselves and the world around them. The children will constantly surprise you with their curiosity and imagination. This makes working with children a truly dynamic and exciting profession.

Another perk of working in this profession is the opportunity to build great relationships. Our sector is built on relationships! Relationships between children, educators, and families. If you are passionate about building and maintaining relationships, then this is the job for you. You will have the opportunity to form close bonds with the children in your care, as well as with their families. You will work closely with other educators, creating a supportive and caring community.

You will find a supportive and caring workplace, whether it is a long day care centre, kindergarten, family day care setting, or outside school hours care service. You’ll find yourself working alongside people who share your passion and have a heart for caring. This sense of community and support will make your work more enjoyable and will help you grow both professionally and personally.

Flexibility is another advantage of working in this sector. There are lots of different positions available, meaning you can find one that suits your lifestyle and schedule. You can work full-time, part-time, or casually. You can work directly with children, or as a cook, or in an administrative role. There are also many support roles available, such as working in companies that support centres. This flexibility makes working in this sector a great option for anyone looking for a career that fits their lifestyle.

The opportunities for career development are also plentiful.  This sector is constantly evolving and growing, providing many opportunities for career development. You can start as an educator and work your way up to a management role, or even pursue further education and become a mentor or trainer. There are also opportunities to specialise in specific care settings, such as family day care, outside school hours care, or supporting children with additional needs. With so many different opportunities, working in this sector is a great choice for anyone looking to grow and develop their career.

Finally, the sense of accomplishment you get from working with children is truly unparalleled. Working with children can be challenging, but it can also be incredibly rewarding. Seeing the children in your care develop and grow, learn new things, and achieve milestones is an incredibly satisfying experience. The sense of accomplishment you feel when you see the children in your care succeed is truly priceless.

The early childhood and school age care sector provides the opportunity for a fulfilling and rewarding career. It offers a supportive community, opportunities for growth and development, the chance to make a positive impact on young lives, and the satisfaction of seeing the children in your care succeed. With its flexibility, diverse opportunities, and the potential for career advancement, this sector is a great choice for anyone looking for a meaningful and fulfilling career. It’s also a field that is in high demand, as the importance of the way we care for and support children is increasingly recognised. So, if you’re passionate about working with children and making a difference in their lives, consider starting your journey in this awesome sector.

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