{"id":6181,"date":"2019-10-28T16:58:00","date_gmt":"2019-10-28T20:58:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.goodwin.edu\/enews\/?p=6181"},"modified":"2024-12-17T17:25:23","modified_gmt":"2024-12-17T22:25:23","slug":"early-childhood-education-certification","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.goodwin.edu\/enews\/early-childhood-education-certification\/","title":{"rendered":"How to Earn Your ECE or Preschool Teacher Certification in Connecticut"},"content":{"rendered":"

Early childhood is one of the most dynamic periods for learning and development. It is also one of the most fun and engaging stages of life, in which children are absorbing information like sponges, and almost always<\/em> eager to learn new things. It\u2019s no wonder so many early childhood educators love what they do \u2013 On a daily basis, these teachers are encouraging (and exploring) children\u2019s curiosities, creating exciting curriculums, honing students\u2019 motor and social skills, and making a real difference in the lives of children and parents alike.<\/p>\n

If you are considering a career in early childhood education, you likely have a passion for working with children. And already, you might have the patience, creativity, and communication skills needed for the job. However, in order to be qualified to teach early childhood ed, you must first become certified<\/strong>.<\/p>\n

Connecticut Early Childhood Certification Requirements<\/strong><\/h2>\n

Each state has different requirements for preschool teachers and other early childhood educators. In Connecticut, preschool teachers and educators working with children under age 3 are generally required to hold an associate degree (or higher) in a related field. However, for those looking to work in a state-funded institution, with infants, toddlers, and\/or preschoolers, the certification standards are raising.<\/p>\n

By July 1, 2020, all primary ECE teachers in state-funded programs will be required to hold:<\/p>\n

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  1. Certification, with an endorsement in Early Childhood Education (or Early Childhood Special Education) OR<\/strong><\/li>\n
  2. A bachelor\u2019s degree with a concentration in Early Childhood Education, Child Study, or Child Development, from an accredited institution or program in the state<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

    Early childhood education certification, or preschool teacher certification, in Connecticut usually means that you have received the Early Childhood Teacher Credential<\/strong> (ECTC). The ECTC<\/a> is a free credential issued by the state\u2019s Office of Early Childhood. It is awarded at two different levels \u2013 for Preschool teachers, and for Infant\/Toddler teachers \u2013 and is open to anyone working in early childhood ed.<\/p>\n

    The ECT credential shows that certified teachers have great competency in subjects such as child development, family relationships, child assessments, and curriculum development. It also provides official documentation for ECE teachers, that they have met the legislative teacher requirements in the state. This applies to Preschool teachers, School Readiness teachers, Head Start teachers, and Child Daycare contracts in state-funded programs.<\/p>\n

    How to Earn the Early Childhood Teacher Credential<\/strong><\/h2>\n

    There are currently two ways to get the Early Childhood Teacher Credential. Most aspiring teachers in Connecticut take the \u201capproved college route.\u201d To do so, you must:<\/p>\n