What Is a Virtual Early Learning Facilitator?

What is a virtual early learning facilitator? This is a question that you might have a keen interest in, especially if you’re a teacher.

Interactive educational software has been around since the 1980s. In the 2000s when online learning platforms became more popular. ABCmouse and Reading Eggs were pioneers in the field. Then came the COVID-19 pandemic lockdowns that accelerated the use of educational technology. 

Today, virtual early learning facilitators enjoy increasing demand for their services. Here, we’ll discuss their roles, key skills, and best practices. You’ll also learn about the career opportunities if you wish to be one.

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Defining the Role of a Virtual Early Learning Facilitator

A virtual early learning facilitator is an educator who:

• Teaches and guides young children (ages 3-8) through online learning
• Focuses on early childhood development and digital literacy
• Uses interactive learning methods to teach young children

Why the Role is Growing in Popularity

The role of a virtual early childhood educator is growing in popularity because of the:

• Increase in the use of technology to support early childhood cognitive and social development
• Rise of online preschool programs and remote learning opportunities for young learners
• Increased demand for flexible, accessible, and affordable early education options

It’s only fitting that young learners in the Digital Age get early exposure to digital learning.

Understanding the Role of a Virtual Early Learning Facilitator

Online early childhood learning programs are different from in-person programs. Online programs use more virtual interactions, virtual simulations, and digital tools. As a result, there’s more screen time.

These unique features demand specialized knowledge and skills. This is where a virtual early learning facilitator comes in.

What Does a Virtual Early Learning Facilitator Do?

If you become one, your roles and responsibilities will include:

• Design and deliver interactive virtual lessons for young children
• Use age-appropriate educational technology and tools to improve their learning experiences
• Work with parents and caregivers to support at-home learning
• Develop age-appropriate digital learning materials and resources
• Facilitate social-emotional learning (SEL) in online environments

You must undergo the appropriate education and training to perform these responsibilities.

Key Skills for Virtual Early Learning Facilitators

In the course of your education and training, you’ll develop these key skills for success.

• Strong communication and engagement skills with young learners
• Understanding of best practices in child development and early learning
• Competence in using online teaching platforms and educational apps
• Ability to adapt virtual lessons to diverse learning styles and needs
• Creativity in producing interactive and engaging virtual lessons

You’ll spend years gaining the competencies to become an effective professional. But these are years well spent considering the rewards.   

The Importance of Virtual Learning in Early Childhood Education

The use of technology in early childhood education traces its roots to the 1950s and 1960s. Educational television programs use engaging content to teach preschoolers basic concepts. These were the pioneers of distance learning for children.

In the 21st century, distance learning is in the form of online programs and platforms. The importance of virtual learning in ECE comes from these benefits.

Expanding Access to Early Education

Virtual learning expands the reach of early childhood education by:

• Providing children in rural and underserved areas more access to learning opportunities
• Allowing families to choose from flexible learning options

Supporting Early Literacy and Numeracy Skills

Virtual programs support the development of early literacy and numeracy skills by:

• Reinforcing the young children’s foundational skills in reading, math, and critical thinking
• Helping concept retention through engaging digital activities

Encouraging Parental Involvement

Virtual learning also promotes better parental and caregiver involvement by:

• Enabling parents and caregivers to play more active roles
• Providing them with guidance and resources for at-home learning

Enhancing Digital Literacy at an Early Age

Virtual programs improve young children’s digital literacy by:

• Introducing them to technology in a classroom setting
• Preparing them for online learning environments in their future

You, as a virtual facilitator, can have a significant impact on making these come true.

Tools and Platforms Used by Virtual Early Learning Facilitators

Get familiar with the best online tools for early learning facilitators here:

Video Conferencing and Virtual Classrooms

• Zoom, Google Meet, and Microsoft Teams are excellent for hosting live virtual lessons.
• Seesaw and Google Classroom are best for managing assignments and communication.

Interactive Learning Apps and Websites

• ABCmouse, Starfall, and Khan Academy Kids are the go-to platforms for early literacy and math activities.
• Epic! and Storyline Online feature extensive digital libraries for young readers.

Digital Whiteboards and Presentation Tools

• Jamboard, Padlet, and Canva for Education are useful for interactive visual learning purposes.
• Nearpod and Kahoot! Provides engaging quizzes and interactive lessons.

Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR)

• Quiver and AR Flashcards bring stories and lessons to life and, thus, improve concept retention. 
• Osmo and Merge Cube provide hands-on, interactive learning experiences.

By training to become a virtual facilitator, you gain the skills for their effective use. Remember that misused technology can do more harm than good.

How to Become a Virtual Early Learning Facilitator

Here are the basic steps on how to become a virtual early learning facilitator. Be sure to do more research on every step so you’re well-prepared for the challenges.

Education and Certification Requirements

• Earn a bachelor’s degree in early childhood education, child development, or a related field.
• Secure a teaching certification. Check for specific state eligibility requirements.
• Undergo specialized training in digital learning strategies for preschoolers.

Additional Certifications and Professional Development

Consider earning these professional certifications, too.

• ISTE Certified Educator highlights expertise in digital learning integration.
• Google Certified Educator demonstrates proficiency in Google-based learning tools.

Look for TEACH.org early learning certifications, too. These provide specialized early childhood training.

Gaining Experience in Virtual Early Childhood Education

Education and training can only get you so far. You must also gain practical experience in the field by:

• Working as a preschool teacher or early learning assistant.
• Gaining experience in online tutoring or virtual learning programs.
• Taking an active part in pilot programs for online early learning initiatives.

Being an effective ECE virtual facilitator means constant learning, unlearning, and relearning.

Career Opportunities for Virtual Early Learning Facilitators

Where Can You Work?

Virtual preschool teacher job opportunities are among the most plentiful. You’ll find job opportunities at the likes of:

• The Kidville Playground Virtual Preschool
• Excelled Montessori Plus Virtual Preschool
• K12’s Online Preschool Program
• Kids ‘R’ Kids Online Academy

In these virtual preschools, you’ll teach structured virtual lessons.

You can also check out job opportunities in these organizations.

• Private virtual schools and learning pods that provide small group instruction.
• Edtech companies that develop digital learning content for young learners.
• Nonprofits and community centers that run online early literacy programs.

Job Titles Related to Virtual Early Learning Facilitation

These are the common job titles that you’ll encounter.

• Online early childhood educator
• Digital learning coach for preschoolers
• Virtual kindergarten teacher
• Remote learning specialist for early education

Salary Expectations and Job Growth

The average salary ranges between $40,000 and $70,000 per year. Actual salaries vary depending on employer and experience.

There’s an increasing demand for ECE virtual facilitators, too. The rise in online education is among the reasons.

Challenges and Best Practices in Virtual Early Learning

Look at these challenges and virtual teaching best practices for young children. This way, you can set realistic expectations about the job.

Keeping Young Children Engaged Online

• Use short yet interactive lessons with music and movement.
• Combine storytelling, digital games, and hands-on activities.

Balancing Screen Time and Active Learning

• Understand and follow AAP guidelines for appropriate screen time for young children.
• Encourage young learners to engage in interactive play and off-screen activities.

Creating a Supportive Virtual Learning Environment

• Work with parents and caregivers to create a distraction-free learning space.
• Apply consistent routines and visual schedules.

Ensuring Digital Safety and Privacy

• Use safe, secure, and child-friendly online platforms at all times.
• Teach young children about online safety rules and digital literacy.

Challenges and best practices are in constant flux. You must then adapt as the need arises. It’s among the best ways to enjoy the benefits of online early learning programs.

Future Trends in Virtual Early Learning

Keep on the lookout for these trends, too, so you can adapt.

• AI-powered learning assistants provide personalized learning experiences for young children.
• More AR/VR learning tools boost the benefits of hands-on, immersive digital experiences.
• Expanded use of bilingual digital content supports multilingual learners.
• The growth of hybrid early learning models means enjoying the best of both worlds.

Conclusion

What is a virtual early learning facilitator? If you are one, you play a crucial role in making quality early education more accessible.

In other words, you bring quality education to the homes of young children and their parents. In doing so, you can make a positive impact on their lives and future. 

First, gain expertise in digital learning strategies, child development, and interactive teaching. Then, find your place in the profession by doing your best as an ECE virtual facilitator.