Journal Article

Early Childhood Teachers' Well-Being: What We Know and Why We Should Care

Kyong-Ah Kwon, Diane M. Horm, and Chris Amirault
June 2021 | ZERO TO THREE

This report from Zero to Three begins by demonstrating how early childhood educators possess specialized knowledge for dealing with students with trauma yet are compensated in a way that makes them vulnerable to trauma themselves. Overall, early childhood educators experience such a high level of stress and lack of general well-being that it threatens the sustainability of the workforce. In their research analysis, the authors note that self-care for early childhood educators at the individual level is not enough to overcome the systemic issues in this career field. At the program level, leaders can ensure that there is always adequate coverage so that teachers can take breaks without feeling guilty and also strive to create a positive work environment. At the national level, conversation about compensation, credentialing, standards, and infrastructure need to address this issue.