In Support of Child Care Teachers

Child care is undoubtedly one of the most overworked and underpaid jobs in the employment industry today. Even for those with a college degree who choose to pursue this dedicated and invaluable line of work, the starting pay is often less than $10.00 per hour. What much of society doesn't realize is just what goes on day to day in the life of a child care provider in corporate or franchise owned centers. Although it is one of the most rewarding jobs one can have, it can also be one of the most physically, mentally, and emotionally exhausting as well.

According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, the early years are especially crucial in regards to children's cognitive, social, and emotional developments. Therefore, we must ensure that children are cared for and nurtured in a secure environment where these needs are met. Otherwise, they may experience learning and developmental delays in early childhood and further down the road.

It's no secret that the turnover rate in daycare centers across the nation is alarmingly high. This not only concerns the daycare directors or franchise owners, but parents as well. Many parents are faced with the heart wrenching and sometimes daunting task of putting their most precious assets in someone else's care. The daycare facilities standards, expectations, cleanliness, cost, and curriculum all are important factors when considering a daycare, but so are the people who actually interact with the children all day long as well. We expect so much from teachers who care for our children, as we should, but sadly these people who care, nurture, and enrich them often get little praise or recognition and are expected to perform tasks beyond their job description.