The early childhood education field has long been dominated by women.
Although times have changed, many people still view the profession as more suitable for women.
Most kindergartens in Malaysia continue to employ far more female than male teachers, largely because the role is associated with motherly qualities, patience and caregiving.
However, the idea that men are not suited to early childhood education deserves reconsideration.
A kindergarten teacher’s role goes beyond teaching children how to read, write and count. Teachers also guide emotional, social, and behavioural development, responsibilities that require patience, commitment and care regardless of gender.
Recognising this, some private kindergartens have begun hiring male teachers.
In 2023, Genius Aulad Bangi Avenue made history by hiring the first male kindergarten teacher in the Genius Aulad network in Malaysia.
After almost a decade of operation, principal Madihah Abdul Gani took this step because she believed a male figure could provide a more balanced learning environment for children.
The decision, made after discussions with staff, proved successful and led to the hiring of a second male teacher in 2024.
The news of being accepted as a kindergarten teacher drew mixed reactions from family and friends.
Some were surprised, while others questioned the decision because kindergarten teaching is traditionally seen as women’s work.
Yet the choice was more than a career move; it was a step towards challenging stereotypes and proving that interest and ability should not be limited by gender.
Entering a workplace largely made up of female teachers was a unique experience.
The children were immediately curious and began calling him “Teacher Boy”, a nickname that quickly spread throughout the kindergarten during his first year.
Parents, too, were curious about the male teacher their children often mentioned at home. His presence offered children a different experience from what they were accustomed to, introducing them to another positive role model in the classroom.
Every morning brings a variety of emotions and behaviours. Some children arrive excited and cheerful, while others struggle to adjust and cry at the school gate. The laughter, tears, energy and noise are all part of daily life in a kindergarten.
Behind the cheerful atmosphere lies the challenge of managing children’s attention and behaviour.
Young children are naturally active and often find it difficult to sit still for long periods. Teachers must therefore remain creative and patient to ensure learning activities run smoothly.
Beyond teaching, kindergarten teachers prepare lesson plans, create learning materials, assess students’ work and monitor progress.
They are also responsible for the children’s safety and wellbeing. Spilled food, messy classrooms, minor injuries, and toileting accidents are common occurrences that require constant attention and care.
As a male kindergarten teacher, there are also professional boundaries to observe, particularly when dealing with female students.
Male teachers are reminded to be especially mindful regarding physical contact and situations involving personal care, ensuring the comfort and safety of everyone involved.
Despite these challenges, male teachers bring valuable contributions to early childhood education. Children often view them as father figures who provide guidance and discipline, while female colleagues acknowledge that a male teacher’s presence can help create a more balanced and structured environment.
Firmness, however, does not mean harshness. Children are still learning the difference between right and wrong and should be guided with patience and understanding. Even when discipline is necessary, teachers should explain why certain behaviour is unacceptable and help children understand the consequences of their actions.
Most importantly, children should never be embarrassed in front of their peers.
When students feel comfortable and valued, they become more enthusiastic about learning. Strong teacher-student relationships help children feel safe, supported and inspired.
This writer’s experience of more than four years as a kindergarten teacher demonstrates that early childhood education is equally suitable for men.
In 2026, Ahmad Nurhakim Md Azman, better known as Teacher Hakim, received the Children’s Favourite Teacher Award.
The recognition reflects the strong relationships male teachers can build while maintaining discipline and professionalism.
For the 2026 Teachers Day celebration, Genius Aulad Bangi Avenue adopted the theme “Superheroes Beyond the Moon”, a fitting description of kindergarten teachers, as their work extends far beyond teaching ABCs and numbers.
They comfort children when they are upset, listen when they need reassurance, and provide care and encouragement every day. Even in noisy and demanding situations, they remain patient, cheerful and dedicated.
Indeed, kindergarten teachers play a vital role in shaping a child’s early development. The profession requires sincerity, patience, and a genuine passion for teaching, regardless of gender.
As long as a person loves children and is committed to helping them learn, there is no reason to hesitate in joining a field often perceived as being dominated by women.
