ACSI Speaker Elisabeth Jochum on Navigating the Challenges of Early Childhood Education

As the landscape of education rapidly evolves, so do the challenges faced by educators, particularly those working with young children. In a recent conversation with consultant and speaker Elisabeth Jochum, we delved into the intricacies of early childhood education and the critical role faith plays in navigating its complexities.

Jochum’s connection to ACSI began when her parents enrolled her as a fifth grader at a member school in the Philadelphia area. After graduation, she obtained her teaching degree from a Christian college and then returned to her alma mater as an elementary teacher. This initial immersion into working in early education laid the groundwork for her future endeavors.

“That was a fun beginning for me in education, and also to bring some consistency with ACSI,” Jochum said.

She and her husband then worked for eight years with a church planting team in Indonesia for an organization called Pioneers. Amidst the challenges of adapting to a new culture and raising young children, Jochum discovered the profound impact of anxiety on children’s behavior and development, a theme that would resurface in her later work. Still employed by Pioneers several years later, Jochum now serves as a consultant for parents who are serving as missionaries overseas in challenging environments. 

Drawing from her own experiences, she provides invaluable support and guidance on child development and parenting in the face of adversity. As a speaker at the upcoming ACSI Anchored Early Education events, Jochum will shed light on the pressing issue of anxiety among children in the modern world. 

With the rise of information overload and societal pressures, children are facing unprecedented levels of anxiety, which impacts their behavior and learning experiences. Through proactive measures and a deep understanding of each child’s needs, educators can create nurturing environments conducive to growth and learning.

“Where we are in world society, and as a nation, anxiety is having a significant impact on behavior,” Jochum said. “So, it’s really important for us to pay attention to the factors that contribute to difficult, challenging behaviors in the classroom.”

The theme of "anchored in truth" permeates her approach to early childhood education. By grounding themselves in biblical principles and fostering secure attachments with children, educators can provide a stable foundation for their journey of faith and learning. 

“We’re privileged as adults to know the message of Jesus, that He is an anchor,” she explained. “He is the hope set before us and an anchor for our souls and being anchored as educators. It’s important to know what truth is, so that we’re standing on a firm foundation as we work together with children and parents.”

Through workshops and discussions, Jochum empowers educators to address challenging behaviors, understand brain development, and prioritize healthy attachments with their students.

Jochum also mentioned the importance of fellowship and shared learning experiences. Educational conferences provide a vital space for collaboration, reflection, and professional growth. By coming together, educators can gain fresh insights, renew their passion for teaching, and forge meaningful connections with their peers.

“Taking a break and gathering together to discuss and examine and work through some solid principles and how they’ll apply—that can really change our focus, our attitude, and our efficiency as educators,” Jochum said. “That time is well spent.”

Reflecting on her own journey, Jochum acknowledged the trials and failures that have shaped her path. Yet, through God’s grace, she has found redemption in using her experiences to support others facing similar challenges. By sharing her vulnerabilities and offering practical resources, she hopes to inspire and equip educators to navigate the complexities of early childhood education with faith, compassion, and resilience.