What do you have to take in school to be a Preschool Teacher?

Question

I'm going into high school this September and I think that's what I might like to do, because i enjoy playing with kids and helping them. I know it's kind of early, but whatever. So, I was wondering what you have to take in College or even High School to be a Preschool Teacher? And how much do you get payed? And if you are one right now or were one, how did you get your job of being one? Thanks! =]

Answer 1

It depends on what state you are in and what kind of program you are trying to work for.  If you do preschool in a child care setting, the regulations are little more relaxed.  In Michigan, the minimum requirements are 6 college credits in early childhood, CPR, first aid, blood borne pathogen, and 12-hours of yearly training.  This is just the minimum and many centers will look for more.  I am a preschool teacher in a center. I have my bachelors in psychology with a minor in early childhood and I am working on my master's in early childhood education.  If you want to work for a school district, many require at least an associates in early childhood education, and this can be obtained at many community colleges.  So maybe see if you can start working at a child care center now, and work your way up.... that is how I started, and of course once I was done with my bachelors I applied for the job, many places hire within.  As for the pay, not great, but it is what I love doing.  I make $38,000 with benefits and vacations

Answer 2

Hi, well ~ I don't think they offer anything in HS to become a Preschool Teacher, but I know definately in College... so, you would take Early Childhood Education and that would lead you to getting your Associates in ECE... and from there you would continue training for a specific age group, etc.  As far as pay... well, Preschool Teacher do not get paid much, and it has nothing to do with having or not having a degree... it has to do with the Center in which you work or the school whether private or public...  

As to how I started working... just searching for ads that were looking for a PRE K Teacher, or just CHILD CARE, NOT BABYSITTING, but working in Child Care...

GOOD LUCK sweetie ...

Answer 3

You get a degree in Early Childhood Education Or ECE. You can get a job with a two-year Bachelors Degree. There is also an Associates and the highest you can go is a Master degree.

As a preschool teacher you deal with and help parents and families. Not just children.

I would suggest volunteering at a preschool to see  what goes on. Not only will you learn and get experience but it looks good on a resume to volunteer.

During your education you will do a Practicum/Internship this will help you for future work. You will Mentor teacher and if they are good they will guide you in every way.

Unfortunately the pay is quite low. It not a job you go into to get payed a lot.

You have to LOVE children and deal with the good and the bad.

Answer 4

I have bachelor degree from my country, and when i came to USA, i got another one in childhood early education, i work for  the Head Start Program here in Miami, and this year i made $ 45.000. if you have the qualification you can work the summer too, and make more money.  Here in Florida is a program called VPreK, and you have a lot of opportunities for a job when u finish school.