Early Education During the Coronavirus Pandemic: Teacher Work and Well-Being

• In Event: Health and Well-Being in the School Setting: Multiple Perspectives on Supporting Students and Teachers

Abstract

Early education has long been an essential support for both children’s early development, and working families; the arrival of COVID-19 has only increased its importance. This paper explores the work and wellbeing of child care teachers during COVID-19, with the aim of understanding what teachers will need in order to fill this role successfully. Using the first COVID-19 survey data collected from child care teachers, we report on how the work of child care has changed, what supports teachers have accessed, and teachers’ financial and emotional wellbeing. These data will inform policymakers working to ensure that early education is safe, and that children receive the kind of high-quality care they need during the crucial early years of life.

Authors

• Anna J Markowitz, University of California Los Angeles

• Daphna Bassok, University of Virginia

• Amy Smith, University of Virginia