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What types of majors or fields work with children?
I'm in 9th grade in California and hoping to get knowledge about what field I should research and work toward because I have volunteered in many organisations and hope to get more knowledge past those close to me.
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Jessica’s Answer
Hello Kathy!
It's fantastic that you're seeking guidance here! The realm of child-related professions is vast and diverse, and it's commendable that you're already building your skills and knowledge through volunteering. You've indicated an interest in teaching, which is great, but have you thought about branching into early childhood development? Fields such as therapy, medicine, psychology, and social work also offer specialized areas for working with children.
Keep pushing forward with your volunteering efforts - it's a great way to expand your network. As you continue, try to identify the age group of children you'd most like to work with, as well as any specific sectors that interest you, such as underserved or under-represented communities, children with disabilities, or early childhood education.
It's fantastic that you're seeking guidance here! The realm of child-related professions is vast and diverse, and it's commendable that you're already building your skills and knowledge through volunteering. You've indicated an interest in teaching, which is great, but have you thought about branching into early childhood development? Fields such as therapy, medicine, psychology, and social work also offer specialized areas for working with children.
Keep pushing forward with your volunteering efforts - it's a great way to expand your network. As you continue, try to identify the age group of children you'd most like to work with, as well as any specific sectors that interest you, such as underserved or under-represented communities, children with disabilities, or early childhood education.
Updated
Ashley’s Answer
Hello! There are several fields that work with children it depends if you want education, healthcare, nonprofit, etc. Here are some of the fields that are always on the lookout; teachers/educators, nurses NICU, PICU, L&D, PEDS ER, PEDS OR, OBGYN, Pediatrician, Nonprofit Organizations, Social Workers, Daycare Center Manager, etc.
Updated
Dr’s Answer
Hey Kathy! 🎉 First off, massive kudos for already volunteering and getting involved at such a young age—you're ahead of the game! 🙌🏼 Now, when it comes to working with kids, there are soooo many awesome paths to explore! Think of it like a treasure hunt, but instead of gold coins, you’re collecting knowledge and skills. 🏆
Here are some fun and exciting fields that involve working with kids:
1. Child Psychology 🧠💡
If you like figuring out what’s going on in someone’s head (in a good way, of course), child psychology is a great choice. You’ll learn about how kids think, feel, and develop—and why they do the quirky things they do (like asking 57 times “Why?”). You could work with kids one-on-one, in schools, or even in therapy settings, helping them navigate life’s ups and downs. 😄 Key Skills: Empathy, active listening, patience (because, well, kids!).
2. Education 📚👩🏫
You know how teachers are basically superheroes in disguise, right? If you enjoy helping kids learn, shape their future, and make a difference in their lives, education is for you! You can teach everything from math to art to gym (because who doesn’t love gym class?). Plus, there are so many cool ways to get involved: elementary school, special education, or even teaching English as a second language. 💪 Key Skills: Patience, creativity, a love for learning, and maybe some dance moves for that impromptu “keep them engaged” moment!
3. Pediatrics (Child Medicine) 👩⚕️🩺
If you love science and helping kids feel better, why not consider pediatric medicine? Pediatricians are the go-to doctors for kids and help them grow up healthy and strong. Whether you become a pediatrician, nurse, or pediatric surgeon, you’ll be doing some pretty important work! Key Skills: Knowledge of biology (and how it applies to growing kids), compassion, and a love for tiny humans.
4. Child Development 🍼🎨
This one’s perfect for those who want to understand how kids grow and change. You could work with children in early childhood education or even in research, studying how babies and toddlers develop motor skills, language, and social behaviors. It’s a field where you get to be a kid scientist (with fewer lab coats, probably). Key Skills: Observation, creativity, and understanding the developmental milestones kids hit.
5. Social Work 💼🤝
If you’ve got a heart of gold and want to help kids facing challenges, social work is an amazing field. Social workers help kids and families navigate tough situations, from mental health issues to family problems. It’s all about making sure kids grow up in safe, supportive environments. Key Skills: Empathy, problem-solving, and being a general “helping hand.”
6. Speech Pathology 🗣🧠
Speech pathologists help kids with speech delays, language issues, and other communication struggles. If you’re someone who loves words, storytelling, and making sure everyone can express themselves, this could be your jam! Key Skills: Patience, creativity, and a good understanding of language.
7. Art Therapy 🎨🖌
Ever thought about combining art with healing? In art therapy, you can help kids express their emotions through creativity. Whether it’s painting, drawing, or sculpting, art therapy helps kids work through their feelings and stress. Plus, who doesn’t love playing with paint? Key Skills: Creativity, empathy, and a love for art.
8. Occupational Therapy (OT) 🖐️🧸
OTs work with kids to help them develop the skills they need to thrive, whether that’s learning how to hold a pencil, tie their shoes, or play with others. If you like the idea of helping kids develop life skills, this is a field where you can make a big impact. Key Skills: Patience, creativity, and a love for problem-solving!
9. Sports/Physical Therapy 🏀🤸♀️
For the sporty types who want to help kids stay active, healthy, and injury-free, this is a great option! You could become a coach, a physical therapist, or work with kids who need help staying physically strong. Key Skills: Knowledge of physical health, patience, and lots of energy!
10. Child Advocacy or Nonprofit Work 💖🌍
If you’re passionate about making a difference, working for a nonprofit or as an advocate for children’s rights is a rewarding path. You could work with organizations that fight for kids' education, protection, or healthcare. Key Skills: Communication, leadership, and a strong sense of justice.
Bonus Tip: Don’t Stress—Explore!
Remember, you don’t have to decide everything right now! You’ve got tons of time to explore these fields, so stay curious, keep volunteering, and maybe even try a job shadow or internship! Think of it as an ongoing adventure to figure out what really clicks. 🎢 And don’t forget—whether you’re helping kids through education, therapy, or health, you’ll be making a HUGE difference in their lives. 🌟
Good luck, Kathy! You’re already doing amazing things by asking questions and exploring possibilities, and the world needs more passionate people like you! 💫 You've got this!
Here are some fun and exciting fields that involve working with kids:
1. Child Psychology 🧠💡
If you like figuring out what’s going on in someone’s head (in a good way, of course), child psychology is a great choice. You’ll learn about how kids think, feel, and develop—and why they do the quirky things they do (like asking 57 times “Why?”). You could work with kids one-on-one, in schools, or even in therapy settings, helping them navigate life’s ups and downs. 😄 Key Skills: Empathy, active listening, patience (because, well, kids!).
2. Education 📚👩🏫
You know how teachers are basically superheroes in disguise, right? If you enjoy helping kids learn, shape their future, and make a difference in their lives, education is for you! You can teach everything from math to art to gym (because who doesn’t love gym class?). Plus, there are so many cool ways to get involved: elementary school, special education, or even teaching English as a second language. 💪 Key Skills: Patience, creativity, a love for learning, and maybe some dance moves for that impromptu “keep them engaged” moment!
3. Pediatrics (Child Medicine) 👩⚕️🩺
If you love science and helping kids feel better, why not consider pediatric medicine? Pediatricians are the go-to doctors for kids and help them grow up healthy and strong. Whether you become a pediatrician, nurse, or pediatric surgeon, you’ll be doing some pretty important work! Key Skills: Knowledge of biology (and how it applies to growing kids), compassion, and a love for tiny humans.
4. Child Development 🍼🎨
This one’s perfect for those who want to understand how kids grow and change. You could work with children in early childhood education or even in research, studying how babies and toddlers develop motor skills, language, and social behaviors. It’s a field where you get to be a kid scientist (with fewer lab coats, probably). Key Skills: Observation, creativity, and understanding the developmental milestones kids hit.
5. Social Work 💼🤝
If you’ve got a heart of gold and want to help kids facing challenges, social work is an amazing field. Social workers help kids and families navigate tough situations, from mental health issues to family problems. It’s all about making sure kids grow up in safe, supportive environments. Key Skills: Empathy, problem-solving, and being a general “helping hand.”
6. Speech Pathology 🗣🧠
Speech pathologists help kids with speech delays, language issues, and other communication struggles. If you’re someone who loves words, storytelling, and making sure everyone can express themselves, this could be your jam! Key Skills: Patience, creativity, and a good understanding of language.
7. Art Therapy 🎨🖌
Ever thought about combining art with healing? In art therapy, you can help kids express their emotions through creativity. Whether it’s painting, drawing, or sculpting, art therapy helps kids work through their feelings and stress. Plus, who doesn’t love playing with paint? Key Skills: Creativity, empathy, and a love for art.
8. Occupational Therapy (OT) 🖐️🧸
OTs work with kids to help them develop the skills they need to thrive, whether that’s learning how to hold a pencil, tie their shoes, or play with others. If you like the idea of helping kids develop life skills, this is a field where you can make a big impact. Key Skills: Patience, creativity, and a love for problem-solving!
9. Sports/Physical Therapy 🏀🤸♀️
For the sporty types who want to help kids stay active, healthy, and injury-free, this is a great option! You could become a coach, a physical therapist, or work with kids who need help staying physically strong. Key Skills: Knowledge of physical health, patience, and lots of energy!
10. Child Advocacy or Nonprofit Work 💖🌍
If you’re passionate about making a difference, working for a nonprofit or as an advocate for children’s rights is a rewarding path. You could work with organizations that fight for kids' education, protection, or healthcare. Key Skills: Communication, leadership, and a strong sense of justice.
Bonus Tip: Don’t Stress—Explore!
Remember, you don’t have to decide everything right now! You’ve got tons of time to explore these fields, so stay curious, keep volunteering, and maybe even try a job shadow or internship! Think of it as an ongoing adventure to figure out what really clicks. 🎢 And don’t forget—whether you’re helping kids through education, therapy, or health, you’ll be making a HUGE difference in their lives. 🌟
Good luck, Kathy! You’re already doing amazing things by asking questions and exploring possibilities, and the world needs more passionate people like you! 💫 You've got this!