Explore This Path

Preschool Teacher

💰 Earn $38K-$51K

📚 Associate Degree

⏱️ 12–24 Month Training

📈 4.1% Job Growth

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.

What Preschool Teachers DoInstruct 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.

Preschool Teachers Education, Salary, and Growth

Minimum EducationAssociate Degree

Career ProspectsGood (Increasing by 1-5%)

Training Time1 to 2 years

Job Openings65,500 Annually

Median Earnings

$45,880 in California

$37,120 Nationally

$25K

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Only you can decide how much you need to earn — but knowing what it actually costs to live in your area can help. The Family Budget Calculator can guide you.

Real Talk Reel

We've curated a playlist for you to get a glimpse into a day in the life of this career.

@jylene.adelis

@daniseijagunther

Is This Career Right For You?

YOU Like

Being creative or artistic
Relating with or serving others

you value

Accomplishing things
Having freedom
Personal relationships

you are skilled in

Speaking
Critical Thinking
Reading Comprehension
Active Listening
Writing
Instructing

Go Deeper: Preschool Teachers Explained

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

How Do You Train for This Career?

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

Associate's DegreeAn 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 DegreeA 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

ApprenticeshipAn 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 SchoolA 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

Hybrid CollegeA 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

Workforce Development ProgramA workforce development program typically enhances participants' opportunities to succeed in the workforce through employment skill-building, career counseling, connections to employers, and pathways to high-demand and high-wage jobs.

🎓 Skills-Focused

⏱️ Finish in 6 months - 2 years

Technology BootcampA technology bootcamp typically offers intensive training in specific tech skills, preparing participants for entry-level roles in the tech industry in a relatively short period of time.

🎓 Skills-Focused

⏱️ Finish in Less than a year

Professional UpskillingProfessional upskilling typically results in acquiring new or enhanced skills and knowledge relevant to a participant's current job or desired career path, leading to improved job performance, opportunities for career advancement, and greater employability.

🎓 Skills-Focused

⏱️ Finish in 1 week - 3 months

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