Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How do I become a caregiver, preschool teacher or family child care provider?
A: The California Community Colleges are the primary training institutions for those who work with children under the age of five. Some 4 - year colleges also offer programs. The colleges provide a variety of certificate and degree programs related to early care and education. The colleges also have career advisors who can help you determine your aptitude for the field and design an educational plan that works for you. The Institute works closely with the colleges and has a designated early childhood professional who can help guide you.
Q: Do I need a teaching credential to be an early childhood teacher or caregiver?
A: Yes and No! The state of California Commission on Teacher Credentialing (CTC) offers 6 levels of credentials (called permits) for early childhood teachers. These are listed on the Child Development Permit Matrix or National Association of Student Financial Aid Administration. State and federally funded programs require teachers who work in their programs to have a Child Development Permit. Many private programs do not require permits for their staff, but must meet the requirements of Community Care Licensing operated by the Department of Social Services (DSS). These requirements do include college course work. Even though a permit is not required, teachers who have them are more sought after. The permit requirements are designed in steps that encourage and support progress in your field. Your permit indicates that you have made a commitment to professionalism and have developed the skills and competencies necessary to work effectively with young children and their families.
Q: Is there funding available to help me pay for my training and education if I decide to join the early care and education field?
A: The colleges can help you access student loans, grants and scholarships through their financial aid offices. To encourage people to go into teaching, loan forgiveness programs are also available. This means that student loans used to complete a teacher education program do not have to be paid back if you stay in the field for a specified time. Read more about it on the California Student Aid Commission's web site. A group called CDTC (Child Development Training Consortium) can also help you to pay for education and training. The CDTC, funded by the California Department of Education - Child Development Division contracts with community colleges to help child development students cover the costs of their education. CDTC funds can be used to cover a variety of needs including the cost of books, tuition, permits, and special classes. Each college has an advisory board that determines how best to use this money. Contact your college liaison to find out what is available at the campus you choose.
