Early Childhood Education vs Elementary Education

Understanding the difference between two commonly confused paths for educating young learners

If you are considering a career in education or with children, you have likely come across two different degree paths: early childhood education (ECE) and elementary education. 

Both of these degree paths emphasize the process of helping young minds learn and create environments that foster skill development. However, it is important to note the key differences in early childhood education vs elementary education. Knowing the difference between these two education degrees can help you decide which path is better aligned with your personal skills and career goals.  

What is Early Childhood Education?

Early childhood education is the study and practice of nurturing and teaching children from birth to about 8 years old. It focuses on developing emotional, social, cognitive and physical skills through play-based or inquiry-based learning, where children interact with their environment and peers. 

ECE isn’t just about teaching the basics to kids – it emphasizes how early experiences affect lifelong learning and lay out the foundation for curiosity.  

Students in ECE programs at the university level learn how to create engaging, age-appropriate learning environments, plan activities that promote exploration and support childhood milestones.  

What is Elementary Education?

Elementary education is the teaching and learning of children in kindergarten through 5th grade, focusing on building foundational academic skills in reading, writing, math, science and social studies.  

Elementary education programs prepare teachers to guide students’ intellectual and social development, emphasizing classroom management, lesson planning and strategies for diverse learning styles. 

Which Path is Right for You: Teaching Elementary vs Early Childhood Education

To know which path is right for you, it is important to closely compare certain aspects of early childhood education vs elementary education.  

Age Range

One major difference between the two degree options is the age range of students whom you would work with.  

• Early childhood education involves teaching kids from pre-k to 3rd grade. This choice focuses on younger age groups. 

• Elementary education involves teaching students from kindergarten through 5th grade. This path covers a broader range of students. 

Curriculum

The content taught in early childhood education vs elementary education will differ in certain ways.  

ECE teachers will teach students fundamental and developmental skills. As the brain and body of a child grow with age, they reach corresponding developmental markers. ECE curriculum helps students achieve milestones that correspond to their developmental growth. 

While elementary education teachers still incorporate ECE skills into their curriculum, they will focus largely on academic content. As children mature with age, they can build on developmental foundations and begin learning individual subject matters. 

It is important to evaluate your goals and aspirations when it comes to the education field. Think about what age range you feel passionate about, and what you want to teach students. Knowing these things will help you decide whether to pursue ECE or elementary education.  

Early Childhood Education vs Elementary Education Jobs

Common jobs for students who get an early childhood education degree include: 

• Preschool teachers nurture children ages 3–5. They support early learning, social-emotional growth and school readiness.  

• Early intervention specialists work with infants and young children who have developmental delays or disabilities, providing them targeted support and strategies. 

• Special education teachers sign and implement individualized education plans (IEPs) to support students with diverse learning needs in inclusive or specialized classroom settings. 

• Childcare center directors oversee operations of a childcare center, managing staff, programs and the overall safety and development of children. 

• Curriculum developers create, evaluate and improve educational programs and lesson plans to ensure effective teaching and meaningful learning outcomes.

Common jobs for students who get an elementary education degree include:

• Elementary school teachers teach students in kindergarten through 5th grade, guiding their academic, social and emotional growth across multiple subjects. 

• Curriculum coordinators develop, implement and evaluate school or district-wide curriculum to ensure effective instruction. 

• Reading or literacy specialists support students’ reading and writing skills through targeted instruction, intervention and literacy programs. 

• After school program leads plan extracurricular activities and enrichment programs, creating safe and engaging environments for students outside regular school hours. 

Early Childhood and Elementary Education at Belmont

No matter the degree path you choose, early childhood education or elementary education, both avenues lead to fulfilling careers of nurturing children in their growth and learning.  

At Belmont University’s College of Education, both programs guide future educators and leaders to learn needed skills to create engaging and positive learning environments for kids. Belmont values in-person classroom experience and will give you opportunities to examine multiple education environments, aiding in your decision on which degree path to take.  

There are some differences in the early childhood education major vs elementary education major at Belmont: 

• Belmont’s new licensing model in the Early Childhood Education program combines early childhood and special education studies. In coupling these two areas of study, graduates in the ECE program have a wider skill and more diverse set that is needed for implementing the right supports in the classroom. Through this model, students are equipped to provide early intervention and inclusive learning to all children.   

• Students in the Elementary Education program will gain an understanding of individual differences and diverse cultures and communities, learn how to build and deliver lesson plans that match any child’s needs and learn how to utilize multiple methods of evaluation and assessment for kids.  

Common Questions About Early Childhood vs Elementary Education 

If you are considering a career in early childhood or in elementary education, you might have a few questions about either program. Here are some quick answers to help you gain a clearer understanding of what early childhood vs elementary education paths look like.