Early childhood professionals are incredibly important people in children's lives with complex and demanding jobs. The first five years of development are some of the most influential, making our roles with children even more essential. The human brain has already developed 80% by two years of age, and 90% by the age of five. Whilst "care" is a major aspect of our roles, we are more than just "childcare workers". Early years professionals are educators who work tirelessly to ensure all children are supported, included and have access to the best education and quality developmental outcomes possible. We support families and communities through relationships and work to ensure all children feel a sense of belonging, confidence and inclusion in their everyday lives. We are advocates for young children and their families.

So why are we are still referred to as "babysitters" and "bottom wipers" almost daily? 

Because of this stigma, many of our wonderful educators are leaving our profession yearly. High staff turnover in this profession is also related to our poor pay rates - those that do not accurately match the jobs that we hold. Early Childhood Teachers (ECTs), for example, carry out four-year degrees, graduating with a Bachelor of Education - just like primary school teachers. We also complete the same accreditation process to achieve teaching proficiency as our primary school counterparts. Despite this, primary school educators are making over $10,000 more than us annually. 

* Our aim is to stop the stigma surrounding early years professionals. Stop referring to us as "babysitters" and those that "just work in childcare" as we are much more than that. We are educators, teachers and professionals amongst other things and wish to be seen as so. 

* Our pay rates also need to reflect this. Increasing the rate of pay for early years educators and achieving pay parity for ECT's with primary school teachers will encourage our wonderful teachers to stay in the profession.

Stopping the stigma and increasing pay rates for professionals in the early years will ensure our incredible, powerful staff stay with us in the early years. Retaining staff will better benefit our children, families and the community. 

Sign our petition in support and hope that the Australian Government will finally listen to their Early Years professionals and make some much-needed change.