What kind of classes will I have to take to become a preschool teacher?

Question

Sign ups are this month for school and since I have a two year old son I would like to go back to school and get credits to become a preschool teacher. In california they require 12 credits to get your certificate

Answer 1

Sounds like you are off to a great start! Look into any classes that are Early Childhood Education (ECE) units. Child, Family, and Community is a great class and very desired by employers. The other classes sound great too! In California, preschools will accept having less credits than 12 (Usually 6) and you can start as a teacher's assistant. You will need 12 to start as a head teacher. Also, get a CPR class under your belt. This also looks good on a resume and it's a great skill to have! You may also look into taking classes focusing on different teaching methods (Montessori, High-Scope, Waldorf...). Many schools follow a teaching philosophy and desire teachers who are familiar with them. Plus, it is a good base for developing a curriculum!

Hope this helps! Enjoy your classes!

Answer 2

Usually it is an associates in Early Childhood Education or Child Development.  Something along those lines.  You can take these classes at any community college and at some CC you can get an associates degree in those subjects.  You can then transfer to a state university. My sister lives in CA and she is planning on becoming a preschool teacher this way.  She is getting her AA in Child Development.  It just makes you more marketable to have a degree rather than just credits.

Answer 3

It depends on the college a lot of times.  The program I am enrolled in for the fall only requires 18 hours for early education.  However, I already have my bachelor's in education and I'm already certified to teach kindergarten through the 6th grade.  Check the state requirements and then find a school that is accredited and offers what you need.  Best of luck!