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Preschool Teacher

  • Inspire young minds through creative play and foundational learning experiences.
  • Shape the future by nurturing social, physical, and intellectual growth in children.
  • Engage in a dynamic role that adapts to each child's unique learning journey.
💰 Earn $38K-$51K
📚 Associate Degree
⏱️ 12–24 MONTH TRAINING
📈 4.4% JOB GROWTH
Preschool Teacher
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What You’ll Do

Instruct preschool-aged students, following curricula or lesson plans, in activities designed to promote social, physical, and intellectual growth.

  • Teach basic skills, such as color, shape, number and letter recognition, personal hygiene, and social skills.
  • Establish and enforce rules for behavior and procedures for maintaining order.
  • Adapt teaching methods and instructional materials to meet students' varying needs and interests.
  • Provide a variety of materials and resources for children to explore, manipulate, and use, both in learning activities and in imaginative play.
  • Serve meals and snacks in accordance with nutritional guidelines.

Scoop

Minimum Education

Associate Degree

Career Prospects

Good (Increasing by 1-5%)

Training Time

1 to 2 years

Job Openings

61,400 Annually

Median Earnings

$44,730 in California
$37,130 Nationally

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Real Talk Reel

Want to see what it's like to be a Preschool Teacher? We've curated a playlist for you to get a glimpse into a day in the life.

@jylene.adelis

Best For You If...

YOU Like 💕

  • Being creative or artistic
  • Relating with or serving others

You are skilled in 💫

  • Active Listening
  • Critical Thinking
  • Instructing
  • Reading Comprehension
  • Speaking
  • Writing

You value 🙏

  • Accomplishing things
  • Having freedom
  • Personal relationships

Deep Dive

Preschool Teacher

Explore career pathways, key skills, and what each role has to offer.

Pathways to this Career

Learn about the education and training paths that can lead to this career — and what to expect from each one.

Associate's Degree
An associate's degree typically provides graduates with foundational knowledge and skills for entry-level jobs in the graduate's industry, or serves as a stepping stone towards further education.
🎓 College
⏱️ FINISH IN 2-3 years
Bachelor's Degree
A bachelor's degree typically results in increased knowledge about a variety of academic subjects, specialized knowledge in a focused field of study, and is considered the foundational qualification for many careers.
🎓 College
⏱️ FINISH IN 4-5+ years
Hybrid College
A hybrid college combines online learning with the student support typically offered on college campuses, giving students flexibility and accessibility while still providing a comprehensive educational experience.
🎓 College
⏱️ FINISH IN 2-5 years
Apprenticeship
An apprenticeship typically offers a combination of hands-on training and classroom instruction, leading to practical skills, industry-specific knowledge, and the potential for long-term employment in a specific trade or profession.
🎓 Paid Work
⏱️ FINISH IN 2-5 years
Vocational School
A vocational school typically equips students with specialized skills and practical training in specific trades or occupations, enhancing their employability and providing direct pathways to relevant careers.
🎓 Skills-Focused
⏱️ FINISH IN 6 months - 2 years

Find Training Near You

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