A preschool teacher's ultimate goal is to prepare students for kindergarten and elementary school, though it's just as important to present information in a way that ignites a passion for learning. Playing, problem solving, questioning and experimenting are key to how children at that age learn, so preschool teachers plan classroom activities that teach basic skills in a way students will enjoy. Lessons often use games, art and hands-on exploration to introduce early concepts like letters, numbers, sharing and following directions.
Conventional teaching methods have expanded to more engaged, interactive forms of learning. One example Arizona State University helped develop is Early Years Educators at Play, or EYEPlay, a professional development program that teaches educators how to use elements of drama like body language, facial animations and roleplaying to further stimulate learning among young children.
In addition to interactive learning, a preschool teacher also maintains an orderly learning environment and closely observes students throughout the day. As the first professional educator in a student's life, a preschool teacher monitors signs of emotional and cognitive development and keeps parents aware of any changes. Regular assessments and parent-teacher conferences give families a full picture of their child's progress throughout the year.
How much do preschool teachers make, and is the job in demand?
Preschool teachers can work in a variety of settings, including public and private schools, child care centers, charitable organizations and other licensed educational facilities. Pay offered by these different institutions varies, as do the requirements for employment. This is especially true for different states, so contact your state department of education to understand your individual early childhood education requirements.
Employment of preschool teachers is projected to grow 4% from 2024 to 2034, about as fast as the average for all occupations, and demand remains steady. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects about 65,500 openings each year, largely from teachers moving into other roles or leaving the workforce, which means qualified early educators are consistently needed in classrooms.
Do you need a degree to be a preschool teacher?
Yes. Most states require a degree in early childhood education, child development or a related field to work as a lead preschool teacher, and a bachelor's degree gives you the strongest foundation along with the most opportunities down the road. Some states allow an associate degree or an early childhood credential for certain center-based roles, but a bachelor's degree opens the door to public pre-K classrooms, higher pay and, eventually, a K-3 teaching certification.
Coursework in a bachelor's program typically covers child development, curriculum design, classroom management and how to support children with different learning needs. ASU’s online Bachelor of Arts in educational studies with a concentration in early childhood studies covers these fundamentals and can be a starting point toward a graduate degree or teacher certification later in your career.
How do you become a preschool teacher?
Earning a degree is the first step. From there, many aspiring preschool teachers complete field experience or an internship in a real classroom, then meet any additional state requirements, which can include a Child Development Associate credential from the Council for Professional Recognition or a state-issued early childhood certificate. Once you’re ready, you can apply for roles in public schools, private preschools, child care centers and Head Start programs, each of which may set their own requirements.
How long does it take to become a preschool teacher?
A bachelor’s degree typically takes about four years to complete. Studying online lets you set your own pace around work and family, which can shorten or extend that timeline depending on your schedule.
What skills do preschool teachers need?
Skilled preschool teachers bring patience, creativity and clear communication to the classroom, along with the ability to observe and respond to each child’s individual needs. Organization and calm classroom management matter too, since a typical day moves quickly between lessons, play and transitions.
Can you become a preschool teacher online?
Yes. Online degree programs let you complete coursework on your schedule while still gaining the practical classroom experience most states require through local internships and student teaching placements.
Growing your career: from preschool to kindergarten and elementary teaching
Specializing in preschool education with a degree can be a launching point toward kindergarten and elementary education, where the average median salary is $62,310, according to 2024 data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. ASU’s online bachelor's degree in elementary education prepares you to become a certified K-8 teacher, with real classroom experience built into the program, so your time in preschool classrooms can lead to a versatile, long-term teaching career.
Prepare for your early childhood or elementary education career with ASU Online
If you’re ready to start or further your career in early childhood education, ASU offers online degree paths that are designed around Arizona state-recognized certification, not just coursework. The bachelor's in educational studies with a concentration in early childhood studies builds your foundation in how young children learn, and sets you up to pursue teacher certification or a master’s degree. The master's in early childhood education with teacher certification pairs graduate-level coursework with hands-on internships and a student teaching placement in both pre-K and K-3 settings, so you graduate ready to lead your own classroom.
Whichever path you choose, earning your degree online at ASU means you can advance your career on your schedule, without pausing your job or your life to become the teacher young learners need.