How to Become a Preschool Teacher in 5 Steps

Do you love working with little kids? Interested in a teaching career that involves providing formative education to some of the youngest students? Consider becoming a preschool teacher.

In this article, we'll talk about what it takes to become a preschool teacher and give you a step-by-step process you can follow to pursue this fun and rewarding career.

What Does a Preschool Teacher Do?

A preschool teacher is a professional who provides age-appropriate instruction to very young students, usually three and four year olds.

Daily learning activities often involve creative expression such as music, art, and physical education.

The job duties of a preschool teacher are varied and may include the following:

• planning activities that are both fun and educational
• coordinating and collaborating with other teachers
• managing all classroom activities
• meeting with parents to discuss concerns or progress
• establishing rapport with young children and their parents

Preschool teachers typically work in public and private schools. They may also work in daycare centers.

Preschool teachers typically work full-time schedules, dividing their time between the classroom and outdoor environments such as playgrounds. They often work overtime when meeting with parents or planning activities.

What Qualities and Skills Do Preschool Teachers Have?

Preschool teachers must be excellent at working with children. They must be firm but gentle, patient, and kind.

They must have strong time management and organizational skills to plan activities and stick to a schedule. They must be good at leading by example, making solid decisions, and behaving responsibly.

Preschool teachers must also have good communication and interpersonal skills to be able to teach young children and communicate with parents and other teachers.

Finally, they must have a creative side in order to plan fun and unique activities that will appeal to young children.

If you're ready to become a preschool teacher, follow the steps below to help make your dreams a reality.

Step 1: Complete an Associate Degree

In almost all cases, preschool teachers will need to have at least an associate degree in child development or a related field.

While in school, it's a good idea to take as many classes related to early childhood education and development as possible. If you study full-time and graduate on schedule, you should be able to obtain your associate degree within about two years.

Step 2: Consider Pursuing a Bachelor's Degree

Though an associate degree is the minimum education required to become a preschool teacher, most employers prefer candidates who hold a bachelor's degree.

Bachelor's degree programs include advanced education in a variety of topics related to child development and education. They may also include internship or student teaching opportunities so you can gain hands-on experience.

Consider obtaining a bachelor's degree in early childhood education, development, or a related field. Bachelor's degree programs typically take about four years of full-time study to complete.

Step 3: Get Licensed

Exact licensing requirements vary from state to state, but the majority of states require prospective preschool teachers to have a state license before they can begin teaching.

In some states, you may have to complete a student-teaching experience or teacher prep program. In other states, you'll need to pass a written state-based or national exam.

Check with your local school district or your state's Department of Education to find out which specific requirements you'll need to follow to become a preschool teacher in your state.

Step 4: Get Certified

Obtaining professional certifications is sometimes required in addition to obtaining a state license. Even if your state doesn't require these certifications, they can help you establish credibility and improve your job prospects.

Let's take a closer look at some common certifications.

Certified Childcare Professional (CCP)

This credential is available through the National Early Childhood Program Accreditation. It's a great option for aspiring teachers without a degree, with an unrelated degree, or who simply want to improve their credibility.

To obtain this credential, you'll need to complete a 180-hour training program and demonstrate that you've received at least 720 hours of classroom experience.

You'll also need to submit letters of reference, a personal statement of plans, and several writing samples before finally taking and passing the certification exam.

Child Development Associate (CDA)

You can obtain the CDA credential through the Council of Professional Recognition. This certification is required to become a preschool teacher in some states.

You'll need to complete at least 480 hours of classroom instruction and a 120-hour training program to obtain this certification. You'll also be interviewed.

Finally, you'll need to take and pass a multiple-choice examination. Upon meeting all of these requirements, you'll be considered a child development associate.

Step 5: Complete Continuing Education

After you have received your license and professional certifications, you may need to complete a certain number of continuing education credits to maintain these credentials.

For example, the CDA credential must be renewed every three years, and many state licenses also require regular renewal. You will need to present proof of continuing education.

Exact continuing education requirements will vary by state as well as the specific credential you hold. Find out the requirements for your state and make sure you complete the necessary number of continuing education credits as needed.

Become a Preschool Teacher Today

Preschool teachers play a vital role in preparing young children for kindergarten and grade school. If you want to become a preschool teacher, follow the steps in this article to get started today.