How to Become an EEC Certified Daycare Teacher

A career in early childhood education is one that carries more importance than its pay reflects. If you have an associate's or bachelor's degree in either early childhood education or child development, or if you have completed a college course in child development, you may be eligible to become EEC certified.
All states have similar programs through their Early Childhood Education Department and all may have slightly different requirements. This article is specific for receiving certification in the state of Massachusetts.

Things You'll Need

• high school diploma or GED college degree (optional) work experience high school and/or college transcripts EEC certification application

Instructions

How To Become An EEC Certified Daycare Teacher

1. Gain work experience. Prior to obtaining an EEC certificate, you must have a minimum of nine months of supervised work experience in infant/toddler or preschool-age children. Work experience must consist of 12 hours a week or more.

2. Obtain paperwork. Submit a copy of your high school diploma, GED and/or college degree. You must obtain original transcripts as well as signed work experience forms.

3. Complete qualifications worksheet. Answer the questions required in the qualification form in order to figure out which level of EEC certification you will qualify for.

4. Verify experience. The work experience verification forms must be filled out by your employer and your lead teacher or supervisor.

5. Submit application. Mail your packet of paperwork to the Professional Qualifications Unit at the Massachusetts Department of Education and Care.

Tips & Warnings

• Make a copy of your entire application packet before mailing it in.

• You must be 21 years of age before applying for certification.

Resources

• EEC Certification Application