Preschool Teacher Certification and Classes
Get information on the education and training required for obtaining state certification as a preschool teacher. See what classes are mandated, and find out if online training options are available.
What You Need to Know
Certificates and undergraduate degrees in early childhood education or childhood development are common training options for aspiring preschool teachers. These programs typically prepare students for professional certification through lecture-based courses and student-teaching experiences.
<table border="1"><tr><td> <b>Programs</b> </td><td> Certificates, associate's degrees and bachelor's degrees are most common</td></tr>
<tr><td> <b>Classes</b> </td><td> Introduction to early childhood education, child social and emotional growth, language development and emergent literacy, ethics in early childhood, young children with special needs</td></tr>
<tr><td> <b>Certification</b> </td><td> Some states require that preschool teachers earn the Child Development Associate (CDA) credential</td></tr>
</table><h3 id="section---HowDoIEarnCertificationAsAPreschoolTeacher">How Do I Earn Certification as a Preschool Teacher?</h3><p>According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, a number of educational paths can lead to certification as a preschool teacher, since the regulations vary by state. In most cases, you may be required to complete a college program, though a high school diploma may be all that's necessary in a few instances.
</p><p>You can either complete a training program in child development or early childhood education in order to earn certification in your state. In some cases, these training programs are referred to as 'certification programs', and they're designed specifically to meet your state's regulations.
</p><p>Certificate programs are available in either child development or early childhood education, and they might be useful for entering the field quickly. Associate's and bachelor's degrees are also available in either subject, and they may offer more advanced coursework through additional elective classes.
</p><p>Based on the state where you live, you may be required to earn the Child Development Associate (CDA) credential offered by the Council for Professional Recognition. This credential must be renewed every three years and is earned by having experience in the preschool education field and completing a written exam and occupational observation.
</p><h3 id="section---WhatClassesWillITake">What Classes Will I Take?</h3><p>Certification classes will vary based on your state licensure requirements, but they may include courses in subjects like learning development and instructional techniques. Certificate programs can include courses in subjects such as:
</p><ul><li>Caring for infants and toddlers
</li><li>Child education
</li><li>Supervision
</li><li>Language development
</li><li>Behavior
</li><li>Literature, math and science</li></ul>