Early Childhood Workforce

The early childhood workforce supports young children and their families to help them thrive, and includes both those who provide child care and early education (e.g., home- and center-based early educators, pre-K teachers, support staff) and those who provide other services for young children and their families (e.g., home visitors, early interventionists). Despite its importance, the early childhood workforce—predominantly composed of women, many of whom are women of color—receives lower compensation and experiences more barriers to career advancement than most other professionals. This reality reflects the historical and persistent racism and sexism in our institutions, policies, and culture.