Why Ongoing Training Matters: A Message to Our Teachers

Nathalia Hurtado - Owner at Tiny Blocks Preschool and Big Blocks Preschool

In early childhood education, one of the most significant commitments we make is to remain lifelong learners. Our field evolves every day, new research emerges, new approaches are developed, and new understandings about how children learn and grow become available. As educators, staying up to date is not just a requirement but an essential part of offering high-quality, developmentally appropriate care.

Every child who walks through our doors is different. They come with unique needs, learning styles, temperaments, backgrounds, and abilities. Because of this, education is our most powerful tool for implementing appropriate practices, designing intentional learning experiences, and providing individualized support. When we expand our knowledge, we expand the opportunities we can give our children.

In Florida, we are fortunate to have access to an incredible range of professional development options. Both the Department of Children and Families and the Florida Department of Education offer countless classes and courses, many of them completely free or available at a very low cost. These courses cover everything from the essential basics, such as rules and regulations, to highly specialized topics like trauma-informed care, literacy interventions, positive behavior supports, and inclusive practices.

The truth is simple: Every time a teacher encounters a challenge in the classroom, the best response is to seek information and education.

If a child is struggling with transitions, we can learn more about strategies for emotional regulation. If a student shows signs of sensory needs, we can learn about sensory integration. If literacy development is lagging, we can take a course on phonological awareness or early reading intervention. If trauma appears to be affecting behavior, we can participate in trauma-informed training to better understand and respond.

Training turns confusion into clarity. It transforms challenges into opportunities. Most importantly, it empowers us to make decisions rooted in knowledge, empathy, and best practices.

Professional growth is not about filling hours; it is about strengthening our confidence, our craft, and our impact. When teachers commit to ongoing learning, children benefit from richer experiences, more intentional instruction, and environments where their needs are truly understood.