Never believe a prediction that doesn’t empower you.
– Sean Stephenson, 1979-2019, author and therapist

Today’s guest contribution is from Kristine Parsons, Exchange Leader, Director of Operations at RisingOaks Early Learning, and Council Chair, College of Early Childhood Educators, Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada. Thank you, Kristine!

In Ontario, Canada, Registered Early Childhood Educators (RECEs) play an important role in supporting children and families during the critical early years, and are essential to helping prepare our children for future success.

Early childhood education is education but with a care component because of the developmental age of the children. While child care has been seen to serve a need for the working parent, the narrative must include the vital importance of early education. We know that the most significant brain development happens between ages zero and five. RECEs teach children how to learn. We are there for so many important milestones in their lives.

Looking back at my 34-year career in the early years, it’s amazing to think about the many children who learned to take their first steps in my care; the number of children I’ve helped transition from the diaper stage to curious, independent preschooler, ready for more play-based learning in kindergarten. Teaching basic life skills is every RECE’s superpower. Know that you are making an impact in someone’s life, and setting the footprint for their growth and development. You are one of the most influential figures in the lives of the children in your care – this is something worth celebrating, every day. When considering career paths within this profession, I encourage you to tap into the aspects you enjoy about your work, your desire for learning and commitment to the important work that we do.

I am deeply proud to be an RECE, and to be part of the leadership of this amazing profession.