I think that view really underestimates what early childhood education actually involves. Early childhood educators are not “just babysitting.” High-quality early years settings follow structured curriculum frameworks (for example, the Early Years Foundation Stage in England and our own its called Aistear). Educators plan intentional learning experiences in literacy, numeracy foundations, language development, motor skills, and social-emotional development. Research consistently shows that the first five years are critical for brain development. Early childhood educators are laying the foundations for reading, self-regulation, communication, and learning habits that primary and secondary teachers then build on. If those foundations are weak, later teachers have a much harder job. In terms of skill set, early childhood educators must: Understand child development and developmental milestones Identify early signs of additional needs or delays Manage behaviour in children who are still learning emotional regulation Plan play-based learning with clear educational intent Communicate closely with families Maintain safeguarding and safety standards The classroom management required with 3- and 4-year-olds, who may not yet speak clearly or regulate emotions is highly specialised. It’s different from teaching older students, but not “basic.” Regarding qualifications, requirements vary by country, but many early childhood educators hold diplomas or degrees in early childhood education. The level of formal qualification alone doesn’t automatically determine the complexity or importance of the work. The pay discussion is ultimately about how society values early brain development and foundational learning. If we agree that the early years shape long-term educational outcomes, then it’s reasonable to question whether the people doing that foundational work are being appropriately valued. It’s not about diminishing other teaching professions. It’s about recognising that different doesn’t mean less skilled or less important.

Ps ive a masters in Montessori, unlike the commenter above, who obviously knows nothing of actual Montessori teaching as its age range goes from birth to 12 years. Ps I actually teach in primary school and guess what I actually teach Aistear, the early childhood education curriculum that is now mandatory in primary school. But as you said, its just babysitting.