Educators in the early childhood section are burnt-out and exhausted. But they are also passionate. They love what they do and put their all into providing high-quality childcare for the children in their classrooms. Their jobs take a lot of work. It is all-encompassing. They are also underpaid.
The average educator made $30,500 in annual salary in 2021.”
Childcare Benchmark Report
This makes them both overworked and underpaid. This is a lethal combination that is resulting in educators leaving the field in droves. This is very concerning as we need strong educators shaping the lives of our future generation.
So, what can we do to empower educators?
First and foremost, educators deserve appreciation. This appreciation can come in all shapes and sizes. It is important for owners, directors, parents, peers, friends, family, and community members to show appreciation for the educators in their lives.
Secondly, educators need to make time for self-care so that they can do their best to avoid stress and burnout.
We asked educators what they would like to see from parents. Here is what they said.
Honestly, more respect that we are educators!”
Educators would like to feel respect and support from the parents they interact with. They would like to receive appreciation and be spoken to in a calm and respectful manner.
To keep their kids home when they are sick”
Educators are struggling with children still being sent into childcare when they are sick. As big of a hurdle as it can be for parents to have to stay home and take time off when their children are sick, it is their responsibility as a parent. It is not fair for them to put educators and other children at risk.
That parents are able to better prioritize their time and give more to their kids”
Educators care deeply for the children in their care. It is very important to them that they have a supportive and loving home environment to continue their learning and growth. They encourage parents to make this a priority as much as possible.
That parents understand that they are the first teacher to their children”
Most children do not start at childcare until they are at least one year old. There is a large amount of time after a child is born where they spend all of their time with their parents and have a lot of initial learning experiences from them. It is important for parents to look at themselves as educators as well as parents. Children learn so much for them each day!
That they realize they have a precious gift”
Each child is a miracle and extremely special. Educators encourage parents to remember to take a step back and cherish every moment and milestone with their child.
To pick their children up on time”
It is very important to educators that they do not have to work late every night. They need parents to pick up their children on time so that they can have a work-life balance and show up as their best selves for the children each day.
In conclusion
Educators take on one of the most important jobs that exist. They are growing our future generation. They deserve to be valued, treated with respect, and supported. Please remember to appreciate the educators in your world. Take some time today to check in on them and offer support!
