Forming Young Minds: Preschool Teacher

There are many rewarding jobs that individuals can train and educate themselves for. Often these rewarding jobs are careers such as social service workers, members of the clergy, holding public office, doctors, etc. These rewarding jobs are employment positions that not only help the individual to make a living, but provide additional rewards. One of those additional rewards includes the interaction with other people in life-changing ways that other jobs and simply do not offer.

Another one of those extraordinary jobs where an individual can have a tremendous impact is that of being a teacher. Often, a teacher has the opportunity to interact with young people and help to stimulate their thinking and expand the capability of the mind.

In addition, under the umbrella of being a teacher are many specific opportunities. Some of those opportunities include being a college professor, high school teacher and grade school teacher. In addition, is the opportunity to become a preschool teacher.

A preschool teacher is a unique career opportunity that has many associated advantages. Therefore, if considering a preschool teacher it is important to know how a preschool teacher is defined and what are the educational requirements?

What Is a Preschool Teacher?

A preschool teacher is that dedicated individual who works in a child enrichment center. Generally this individual works with children from the ages of two to five years old.

In addition, these dedicated individuals have a certain personality and the commitment to positively influence young impressionable minds. Often that personality that is exhibited is an individual who has a positive outlook on life, above average patience, ability to be a positive role model and work well with not only the students but the parents as well.

Often the center that preschool teacher may work in include daycare centers, elementary schools and certain corporate sponsored daycares. In addition, the curriculum that the preschool teacher follows consists of music, language, art, communication and recreational activities. Often a lesson plan is developed and followed by the staff.

Also, the qualified preschool teacher has the ability to interact with the child. This interaction allows the child to grow in confidence, become less shy and allow for growth in social skills.

Certification Process

In order for a preschool teacher to gain their certification there are certain educational and experiential requirements. Although many states differ regarding preschool teacher certification, many states require a certain amount of semester units comprised of early childhood education and general education. Often the semester units required for early childhood education are 24 semester units and at least 16 semester units in general education.

In addition, before a teacher can become certified, they must gain on-the-job experience. Again many states vary in how much experiences are required, but this experience must be obtained as a volunteer or employee within in a child development program. For example, some states may require that an individual trying to obtain certification must have at least six months of work experience in a certified Child development Center.