Teacher Well-Being in Early Childhood

A teacher’s well-being has a powerful impact on their work with children, families, and colleagues, and can influence the overall quality of the program in which they are employed. With a specific focus on the unique factors related to the field of early childhood care and education, this book discusses the concept of well-being and how it applies specifically to teachers of young children. The authors provide a rationale and guidance for integrating teacher well-being content into both preservice and inservice professional learning environments. This comprehensive resource also explores the implications of, and connections between, teacher well-being, equity, and social justice. The authors share examples of well-being programs that have been implemented throughout the United States and examine the policy and practice efforts that are necessary to embed well-being culture into early care and education programs.

Book Features:

• An orientation to teacher well-being for the field of early care and education that includes definitions, rationales, impacts, examples, strategies, and recommendations.
• Research-based and practical so readers both understand the importance of teacher well-being but also come away with specific ideas for application and implementation.
• Accessible language and user-friendly format that includes graphics and callout boxes to extend readers’ understanding of the content and provide opportunities for self-reflection.
• Support for a wide range of stakeholders, including professionals in childcare, preschool, and private and public school programs.

Angela C. Baum is associate dean for academic affairs and a professor of early childhood education at the University of South Carolina. Kerrie L. Schnake is the chief executive officer of the South Carolina Infant Mental Health Association.