Early childhood education is more essential than ever, as our educational system and the competitive culture of a global society requires strong foundational skills, as well as individuals that have a strong sense of self-worth, empowerment and confidence in their abilities. To that end, we teachers of young children are passionate about the importance we can make in the lives of our students. It would seem that there is a “gap” in which people outside of the educational field do not have knowledge of the work that pre-k teachers accomplish over the course of a school day, week, or year. I hope the following will help to inform:

I help your child learn color and shape concepts. I teach them letter and sound recognition.

I help them in acquiring empathy and socialization skills. I help facilitate their problem solving to ensure a more tolerant and kinder dynamic in their play.

I address issues of learning development, acting as a resource and advocate for necessary intervention.

I teach early math concepts and show students how to apply them throughout their school day.

I comfort children who have experienced loss. I make resources available to students and their parents to help provide guidance for dealing with grief.

I encourage children to learn more about the world around them through basic science concepts.

I prepare students for a successful transition to kindergarten.

I take yearly first-aid training to better ensure student safety.

I monitor glucose levels, administer nebulizer treatments for asthma, supervise environments for children with severe allergies, and make classroom accommodations for children undergoing cancer treatment. I make every effort to make the school experience of these students as typical and inclusive as possible.

I advise parents who are looking for assistance with behavioral issues, helping to provide a consistent partnership between school and home.

I work with families and counselors helping a child deal with divorce, or a parent with a terminal illness.

I arrange for field trips, plan family school events, and invite informative presenters to enrich students’ experiences.

I attend team meetings to advocate for students that require special services.

I encourage expression through art, and allow children the freedom to enjoy creative movement through music.

I complete state-mandated education training on a yearly basis, often at my own expense, to stay current with trends and new research in the early education field. I make sure that curriculum is developmentally appropriate and complies with state education standards.

I instruct students on healthy habits and good nutrition.

I provide a print-rich environment for students, and develop lesson plans that facilitate and support early literacy skills.

I listen to children who need a voice to speak for them. I encourage them to use their words and speak up for themselves and others.

I teach anti-bullying and personal safety curricula to help children deal with a world that does not always value and protect children.

I hold a hand. I provide a lap to sit on. I comfort a child who has a “boo-boo” on their knee, and those who have one on their heart. I am an educator, an advocate, a nurturer of children.

I am a preschool teacher.

Betsy Lane Mason is assistant director of the Sandwich Village Preschool.