Kindergarten Teacher Classes and Colleges
Learn what college degree you'll need to become a kindergarten teacher. Get information about coursework, online programs and licensing requirements for working in this profession.
What You Need to Know
An early childhood education bachelor's degree program prepares you to educate pre-kindergarten through early elementary students. These professionals teach the fundamental skills and classes that are the basis for education, such as learning the alphabet and counting numbers. They instruct their young students on social skills, including how to behave in a classroom, as well.
<table border="1"><tr><td> <b>Program Options</b> </td><td> Associate's, Bachelor's, Master's, Doctorate, Graduate Certificate</td></tr>
<tr><td> <b>Classes</b> </td><td> Child Development, Classroom Management, Curriculum Development, Exceptional Learners</td></tr>
<tr><td> <b>Colleges</b> </td><td> New York University, University of North Florida, Concordia University Chicago, National Lois University</td></tr>
</table><h3 id="section---WhatClassesWillITake">What Classes Will I Take?</h3><p>As a kindergarten teacher, you'll need to learn every subject, including math, science, language, social studies and art. Your courses will introduce you to how children think so that you'll be able to relate to your students. Some programs cover different learning styles, cultural sensitivity and other aspects that could affect a child's development. The following topics might also be explored:
</p><ul><li>Program planning for early childhood education
</li><li>Social-emotional development
</li><li>Building literacy through play
</li><li>Language and cognitive techniques for reading
</li><li>Cultures and contexts
</li><li>Natural sciences
</li><li>Foundations of special education
</li><li>Learning in the family, school and community
</li></ul><h3 id="section---WhatShouldILookForInASchool">What Should I Look for in a School?</h3><p>Some schools have a daycare center on campus, which is beneficial for working parents and students who want experience interacting with young children. Such schools could provide you with the prospect of working as an observer or acting as an assistant. In addition, consider schools that have professional clubs or affiliations for educating students, such as the Student National Education Association, that offer you networking, peer guidance and cultural awareness opportunities. You can find classes for kindergarten teachers at the following schools:
</p><ul><li>University of North Florida (Jacksonville)
</li><li>New York University (Manhattan)
</li><li>Concordia University Chicago (IL)
</li><li>University of the District of Columbia (Washington, D.C.)
</li><li>National Lois University (Chicago, IL)
</li><li>Saint Mary's College of California
</li><li>Cabrillo College (Aptos, CA)
</li></ul><h3 id="section---HowDoIGetLicensed">How Do I Get Licensed?</h3><p>If you want to work in a public school, all states require that you pass a basic skills test in addition to the teacher certification examination. On the basic skills test, you can expect to be tested in math, writing and reading. The teacher certification exam generally includes multiple choice questions and an essay. The test questions cover development, learning strategies, instructional methods and assessment.
</p><h3 id="section---CanITakeMyClassesOnline">Can I Take My Classes Online?</h3><p>Online bachelor's degree completion programs are available if you already have two years of education credits from a community college. Though you can take courses online at your own pace, keep in mind that you won't be able to complete the entire program through distance learning. You'll still be required to observe and teach in person to obtain your degree and a teaching license.</p>