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What Do I Need to Do to Become a Preschool Teacher?

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What Do I Need to Do to Become a Preschool Teacher

Dear Genie,

I am interested in becoming a preschool teacher. Do you have any information on how I can go about getting a position as a trainee preschool teacher? What are the qualifications I need? I planning on doing Early Childhood studies in 2 years time. Is there any preparation I should do before then?

Working with Kids

Dear Teacher of the Year,

This is difficult to answer without knowing your geographic preferences. In the US, a great deal depends upon the State you wish to work in and the settings within which you wish to work. Some states offer certificate programs through community colleges. Others simply require that you register with a local agency.

It is good that you plan on more “formalized” studies, because they will provide a foundation upon which you can build a career, not just a job. Prior, I encourage you to conduct some “information conversations” and do some “shadowing,” then “volunteer” experiences. Simply, find as many persons as possible who work within childcare centers and learn as much as you can about their backgrounds. Ask if you can “shadow ” for a day or two for a few weeks. This will allow you the opportunity to learn via observation. Then, ask “is there a project or two I can do over the next 2 months?” or “Can I volunteer two or three days a week for the next two months?” Affirmative answers to these inquiries will ultimately yield part-time jobs and practical experiences which can supplement your academic ones.

Best wishes. You’ve chosen a wonderful and challenging area of interest.

What Do I Need to Do to Become a Preschool Teacher? by
Authored by: Harrison Barnes