Let’s face it, when people say they aspire for fulfilling careers, they usually mean tremendous financial success or popularity or both. However, for some people, career fulfillment does not necessary mean five- or six-figure monthly salaries and a monthly luxurious vacation at obscure islands that you need a private jet to reach.  They are contented to have a career that allows them with the opportunity to do something they are passionate about or a chance to pursue continuous professional development. Others are more concerned about a career that gives them the chance to make a lasting impact. Such is the role of a child development practitioner. As with all professions that involve kids, these professionals have the distinction of helping mold these young ones, preparing them for the future ahead.

Child Development Practitioners– What You Need to Know

Perhaps child development practitioners are often associated with child caretakers or nannies, but they are so much more than that. In fact, they actually take on the responsibility of paving the educational path of kids, including infants, toddlers, preschoolers, and school-aged kids up to third grade.

Childhood development practitioners must provide a healthy and safe environment for the children, as well as ensure it is inclusive and engaging. They must also be observant and capable of interpreting a child’s development in order to plan programs that foster further development as necessary. In addition, they track the children’s progress and be keen on any difficulties in cognitive and behavioural functions. They must then be able to create programs that that are appropriate to each kid’s learning capacity.

Salary

According to Neuvoo.ca, a childhood development practitioner earns $45,513 a year on average.

Skills

If you are contemplating a career as a childhood development practitioner, enrolling in a Child Development Practitioner or Early Childhood Education is recommended.

Through these programs, you will be able to learn practice and theory pertaining to childcare and the instructional methods used to enhance physical, cognitive, and emotional development. Of course, other essential points of learning are ensuring you provide a safe, inclusive, caring, clean, and stimulating environment for the children, as well as monitoring and tracking their progress, and being aware of any challenges kids have that affect their development.

Childhood development practitioners are often enrolled in schools and daycare centers , as well as community centers which offer free daycare.

In this profession, you are expected to work exceptionally well with kids and must innately have a nurturing and caring attitude to them. Advanced to expert knowledge in behaviour management strategies, as well as in childhood development and overall psychology of children is also an advantage.

Pros and Cons

Being a childhood development practitioner means you have the privilege of being in a position that makes a positive impact in the lives of kids. It’s a profession that is emotionally satisfying and fulfilling.

A disadvantage is that the work environment can be unpredictable at times as kids’ moods and attitudes constantly change. Of course, for those with a genuine passion for kids, this is barely a stumbling block. After all, they know they area big part of a kids’ life and has the potential to make a difference.

SOURCES:

https://neuvoo.ca/salary/?job=childhood+development

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