How to Become a Preschool Teacher with Five Simple Steps

Learn how to become a preschool teacher with these simple steps:

1. Establish whether you really want to learn how to become a preschool teacher.

Make sure this is really the right career path for you. Take up nannying, volunteer at your local community center or get a summer gig at a kids’ camp. Just because you like being around kids doesn’t necessarily mean you’d love teaching preschoolers. You can get a better sense of what it’s like to teach when you spend every day with children around the preschool age.

2. Crunch the numbers.

At Preschool Teacher Salary, we’re the first to agree that money isn’t everything, but preschool teachers’ salaries are notoriously low. They average around $26,000 each year. So do the math and make sure you can afford car, house and loan payments on that salary before you commit.

3. Get the right degree.

Most preschools require their teachers to have at least an associate, two-year degree. So go ahead and buckle down, hit the books and invest the time and money in a college degree. Bonus points for going for your bachelor’s. Seriously, some schools prefer you carry a four-year.

4. Get certified.

Take a CPR and first aid course to get the proper certification. Nearly all preschools require it and, since your job is to keep your classroom safe, you might as well learn exactly what to do in emergencies.

5. Rack up some experience.

Before starting the job application process, gain a little experience and insight into your future profession. Keep you eyes peeled for volunteer opportunities at local schools. You can also apply for a position as a teacher’s assistant. Not only will this beef up your resume, but it will put you in touch with some great people who can show you exactly how to become a preschool teacher in your community and where to go next.