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[quote=Anonymous][quote=Anonymous]I hold a postgraduate degree in finance, but I've been unable to find a job for a couple of months now. DH suggests I take this opportunity to do something I'm passionate about - that's reaching out to/teaching preschoolers.  We  have  a 2-year old, and I'm very interested in the Reggio Emilia approach and Montessori approach. However, since RE does not have any certified courses in the US, I'm thinking of doing a diploma in Montessori education. However, interest aside, I'm not sure what job opportunities would be open, since i don't have a degree in Early Childhood Education, nor any prior experience in preschool teaching.  Would it be something that's practical?Or should i just focus on looking for a job in the finance field?[/quote]

I taught early childhood for many years, I now teach older kids, and it can be a rewarding career, although a seriously underpaid one.  However, I don't understand how someone could find both Reggio Emilia and Montessori appealing.  They're both Italian, and they both have an emphasis on beautiful materials, but other than that they're very very different, and come from very very different beliefs about what children need and how children learn.  I think you need to figure out what you actually believe, and what your personal style is as a teacher, and then decide if you want to specialize.

If you're interested in the field, I might start by putting your child in a high quality co-op so you could go with him and learn from a good teacher.  If you tell us where you live, we can give you names of options.  I'd also think about getting a 90 hour credential through Montgomery College, UDC, or NOVA.

Then you can decide whether the field is for you, and what further education to pursue.  If what you earn is important, I'd look at a program that leads to an M.A.T., and will certify you to work in a public school since those jobs pay by far the best.  You might also see if special education appeals to you, as there are often good jobs available there.

Good luck!

P.S.  Look hard at pay, and make sure you're willing to work for those salaries.  When I talk about "good pay" in public schools, I'm talking about $40K or so to start with a master's.  Working in a private Montessori or Reggio will pay significantly less than that.  [/quote]

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