Language Ambassadors generally commit to 1 year of service with the program. However, we encourage Language Ambassadors to continue beyond this timeframe if interested.

Requested tasks

• Read through original material and rewrite it in the target language;
• Use specialist dictionaries, thesauruses and reference books to find the closest equivalents for terminology and words used;
• Properly transmit cultural references, including slang, and other expressions that do not translate literally;
• Liaise with NAEYC staff to discuss any unclear points;
• Proofread and edit translated versions to ensure that they are accurate and consistent in language and meaning;
• Provide NAEYC with a grammatically correct, well-expressed final version of the translated text;
• Compile terminology and information to be used in translations into language glossary, including technical or preferred terms such as those for legal materials.

Language Ambassadors may be asked to

• supply subtitles for NAEYC videos and other multimedia resources;
• listen to speaker's statements in order to determine meanings and to prepare translations;
• provide simultaneous interpretation during meetings between NAEYC staff and foreign affiliates;
• accompany visitors or NAEYC staff and facilitate communication between receiving party and visitors.

• Be 18 years or older
• Be willing to make at least a 1 year commitment
• Professional or native English proficiency
• Professional or native proficiency in a language other than English
• Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education, Foreign Language, International Affairs, Human Development or a related field (or equivalent work experience)
• Quality-driven work ethic
• Ability to work to deadlines
• IT skills and access (use of email, Google Docs, Adobe Acrobat and Preview)

Additional Skills Desired

• Master’s degree or higher in Early Childhood Education, Foreign Language, International Affairs, Human Development or a related field (or equivalent work experience)
• Language-translation certification
• Professional translation experience
• NAEYC membership

1st Round: Submit application via Survey Monkey

2nd Round: Submit writing samples

3rd Round: Participate in a phone interview with Global Engagement Coordinator

• Build on individual knowledge of early childhood education, capacity building, large-scale assessment and development systems, international diplomacy and business through translating resources in these topic areas
• Diversify and strengthen translation skills specific to early childhood
• Contribute to the valuable work of a leading membership organization in early childhood education
• Recognition by listing this volunteer experience on your resume and professional social media profiles
• Opportunity to participate in continued professional development in the field
• Access to experts and leaders in the early childhood community

It will help to

• further NAEYC’s mission of promoting high-quality early learning for all children, birth through age 8, by connecting practice, policy, and research.
• support the knowledge-base of a diverse and dynamic early childhood workforce internationally. 
• make resources accessible to equip early childhood educators, administrators, families, and community leaders in other countries with best practices for young children in their own languages.
• build relationships and create professional contacts by working with language volunteers from all over the world.