Technology has been playing an ever-larger role in education for years, and the pandemic only served to accelerate the trend.

There’s no doubt that technology has the potential to engage children and advance their learning. But how exactly can it be applied at the preschool and daycare levels? And what are the advantages and challenges that come with that?

In this post, we describe several ways of utilizing technology in early childhood education classrooms—and what you should consider before doing so.

If you research the role of an early childhood educator, you'll find job descriptions that sound a lot like this: 

Early childhood educators organize and lead activities to promote the intellectual, social, emotional, and physical development of children under 12.

They help kids adjust to the world outside their family circle and get ready for the next stage of structured learning.

Now, that certainly sounds accurate - but what exactly does it mean? What does an early childhood educator (ECE) actually do all day?

The truth is an ECE's responsibilities can vary depending on the work environment. For instance, teaching toddlers in preschool is very different from assisting a licensed teacher in a third-grade classroom.

But most ECEs work in daycares and preschools, so that's what we're focusing on in this post.

We provide a breakdown of a typical day for an early childhood educator so you'll know what to expect on the job.

Considering a career in this field? Here's how your workday could look.

Updated December 2022

In Canada, the term early childhood education refers to the education of children 12 years and under. The field includes children at the preschool and elementary school level.

These are the most crucial years of human development. During the first five years, children reach many physical, cognitive, emotional, and social development milestones. 

This is why early childhood educators play such an important role in our academic system and society.

ECEs are a child’s first teachers outside of the home. They help lay the foundation for a child’s well-being and success in school and in life.

So, what exactly are your career options as an early childhood educator? Where can a college diploma in this field take you? 

You have more options than you might think. Here are four different positions you will qualify for with a college diploma in early childhood education.

Sora New teaches the Early Childhood Education program at Herzing College Montreal.

This is an excellent time to become an Early Childhood Educator (ECE) in Montreal. There is strong demand for ECEs at daycares and preschools throughout the city and across the province of Quebec.

This career is ideal for someone who loves working with young children, and is naturally interested in early childhood development. ECEs have a huge influence on a child's life. They help shape essential cognitive, physical, social and emotional skills.

Why is the first year of life so important for childhood learning and development? What's going on in a baby's brain and body during those pivotal 12 months?

If you're planning to work in early childhood education, know that you'll be caring for humans at a key stage in their physical, emotional, and intellectual development.

You'll have a front-row seat to the incredible changes that take place as newborns become toddlers. And you'll see how much your teaching impacts their development as they tackle the challenges of growing up.

Just how important is baby's first year? Take a look at some of the amazing things children can do by age one.

Teaching is one of the most rewarding professions on the planet. Teachers influence every aspect of our lives. They show us how to treat one another, how to learn and grow, how to challenge ourselves, and how to reach for our dreams.

Collaboration doesn't always come naturally to children (or adults, for that matter!) But that's what the preschool or daycare classroom is really all about: teaching kids how to learn those communication and teamwork skills that each of us needs to thrive, both in school and in life.