A preschool teacher creates learning environments and guides young children's development through play, instruction, and care. The work is hands-on, deeply relational, and you can start with a high school diploma. Here is what the work involves, what skills matter most, and how to get in.
Pathly builds you a free, personalized roadmap and helps your counselor champion you along the way.
Preschool teachers work directly with young children, helping them learn through activities, play, and structured instruction. You establish routines, manage classroom behavior, and build strong relationships with each child and their family. Your days involve assisting children with basic care needs, teaching foundational skills, and thinking creatively about how to engage learners. You also monitor each child's progress, communicate with parents, and work as part of a teaching team to create a safe, nurturing environment where children can grow socially, emotionally, and intellectually.
Core work activities
Career video courtesy of CareerOneStop.
Preschool Teachers, Except Special Education earn a median of $38,140 a year, based on 2025 data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Pay rises with experience, specialty, and location.
The outlook is steady. Employment is projected to grow 4 percent from 2024 to 2034, about as fast as average for all occupations, with about 65,500 openings a year.
Top skills
Knowledge areas
Most preschool teaching positions require a high school diploma or equivalent as a starting point. From there, you can pursue additional training in early childhood education or child development through certificate programs or associate degree programs. Many employers offer on-the-job training as you work. You will develop skills in speaking, active listening, and learning strategies as you gain experience. Some positions may require background checks and training in public safety and first aid. Check with your state or local school district for any specific requirements in your area.
Preschool teaching offers multiple entry points depending on your timeline and goals. Whether you start with on-the-job training or pursue a formal credential first, Pathly can map the preschool teacher, except special education path that fits you to map out your path with your counselor and move forward with confidence.
Many preschool teacher, except special educations must be licensed, and professional certifications can strengthen your resume.
Common certifications
Licensing is handled at the state level and the requirements vary, so check the licensing board in your state. Pathly shows your state's specific steps inside your roadmap.
You are drawn to working with people, building relationships, and supporting others' growth. You enjoy creating positive environments and thrive when helping others learn and develop.
Reading about a career is the easy part. Turning it into a plan is where most students get stuck. Pathly takes you from curious to a clear next step, and gives your counselor the insight to champion you along the way.
Start with a quick quiz and assessments that surface your personality, your EQ, and what really motivates you, so your next steps are built around who you actually are.
Your free AI guide weighs this career against your strengths and goals, and surfaces the colleges, trades, and scholarships that match, so you know if it truly fits before you commit.
Get a personalized, step-by-step plan to reach this career, with the training, coursework, and credentials tracked in one place. Link your school or IEC and your counselor in the loop.
Last updated July 1, 2026.
Data sources. Career details from the O*NET 30.3 Database by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA), used under CC BY 4.0. O*NET® is a trademark of USDOL/ETA. Salary and outlook figures from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (May 2025 wages; 2024–2034 projections), delivered via the CareerOneStop API. Certification, licensing, wage, and outlook data from CareerOneStop, sponsored by USDOL/ETA and the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED).