What the work is
A preschool teacher looks after children from the age of two or three until they start school and helps them develop: speech, thinking, movement, getting along with others and doing things for themselves. They organise the group’s day — activities, games, walks, naps and meals — watch over the children’s safety and health, notice who needs support and stay in constant touch with parents.
A typical day
Welcoming the children in the morning and a quick word with the parents. Morning exercises and a speech activity done as a game. A walk and outdoor games. Helping at lunch and settling the children for a nap. A creative activity afterwards and, in the evening, telling parents how the day went.
How to start
- Get a qualification in early childhood education or teaching.
- Study child development and play-based methods.
- Do a placement in a kindergarten and take a paediatric first-aid course.
- Build patience, warmth and the ability to talk calmly with parents.
Related professions
School teacher, English teacher, methodologist, nurse.