As far as I am concerned, the same applies to infant and toddler teachers. We are all now highly aware of the ample research and documentation reinforcing the significance of the first 1000 days of a child’s life. This cannot and should not be underestimated. People who are responsible for the care of infants and toddlers outside the home, MUST have a specialised set of knowledge and skills that empowers them to be effective and to provide the best possible quality early childhood education and care.

The reason I am questioning the title of “Teacher” for infant and toddler teachers is because of the meaning and expectation this title creates for us. If I am a “teacher” then I am expected to teach children.

But as an avid follower of the RIE approach, this notion leaves an uncomfortable feeling in my heart. Magda Gerber (RIE) espoused that we do not have to teach infants and toddlers. She firmly advocated that given the right environment and attentive, responsive care, children will naturally unfold as they are biologically programmed to do. Of course there are always exceptions to this, not least children who are born atypical physically or neurologically.

“We Should Educate While We Care, And Care While We Educate.” Magda Gerber (1998)

So I am going to be brave and put my stake firmly in the ground here… Early Childhood teachers who work with infants and toddlers are EDUCARERS. They are SPECIALISED knowledgeable, incredible people with a heart of gold, and a passion for the wellbeing and gentle nurturing that our youngest children deserve. There can be no doubt, our infants and toddlers deserve nothing but the best.