Teacher (Preschool)

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Work Tasks

• Teach children who are five years old or younger through games, art, dance, and music
• Talk to children's parents about their progress
• Help to build children's self-esteem, show them how to behave with others, and help them to develop good habits
• Serve healthy meals and snacks; maintain order
• Work for nursery schools, pre-schools, child day care centers, religious institutions, public school systems, the government, business firms that operate day care centers, and themselves, providing day care in their own homes
• Work with toys, games, books, playthings, arts and crafts supplies, coats, gloves, hats, boots, rain gear, lunches, refreshments, and activities schedules

Salary, Size & Growth

• $29,500 average per year ($14.25 per hour)
• A large occupation (369,400 workers in 2010)
• Expected to grow moderately (1.3% per year)

Education/Training

• Minimum for Entry: A 4-year degree in early childhood education
• Skills/Courses: College courses include a mix of classroom training and experience working with children.
• Certification/Licensing: Licensing requirements vary by state.