How old do you have to be to work in a pre-school?

Question

Do you have to be 18?

I am 17 years old, however I have the 12 ECE units.. I am just curious about this..

Answer 1

Most centers require that you be 18, have 6 ECE units, pass the federal and child abuse fingerprint index.  You may be able to start working before 18 in a center, under direct supervision of an adult teacher (such as in afternoon daycare), but you will not be allowed to be the Lead Teacher of a classroom until you are 18.  Ask at centers in your area if they need volunteers (a great way to get your foot in the door!) or if they do any occupational internships.  The college where you took your 12 units should have a listing of centers who allow internships, or may be able to direct you to a good center to start with.  Usually afternoon daycare is a good place for a "newbie" to get acquainted with working with children in a supervised setting, and younger or less experienced teacher aides can usually get a job in a center this way.

Answer 2

You can be 15, as long as you have a working permit to work.

Go apply, follow your heart

Answer 3

It depends what state you live in.  In Kansas, to be a part-time assistant, you must be at least 16 and have a clear bill of health and a KBI background check.  To be a lead teacher and/or to work full-time, you have to be 18 years old (as well as the clear bill of health and a KBI check).  Some child care centers require a certain amount of education (such as a CDA or Associate's in ECE minimum).  You would need to check with the center.

Answer 4

thats enough to be an assistant in CA.

Answer 5

it dosent matter my teacher is like 18

Answer 6

I think it depend on the state in which you are planning on working in.  In Missouri you only have to be 16 to work in the preschool, but to have a class by yourself you need to be 18.