Preschool Teachers, Except Special Education
Preschool teachers instruct students ages 3–5 in settings like public or private preschools, childcare centers, and Head Start programs. They plan and lead activities—songs, games, art projects, outdoor play—designed to build social skills, physical coordination, and early academic foundations. The work follows established curricula while responding to each child's development.
Four short assessments and your background, scored against preschool teachers, except special education and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
A day in the work
A typical day involves arriving early to set up learning stations, greeting children and families, then leading structured activities like circle time, art projects, or outdoor play. Teachers supervise meals and snacks, manage transitions between activities, and document children's progress. They communicate with parents about their child's behavior and development, clean and sanitize materials, and plan lessons for the following week.
Who this work suits
Holland code SAC. Social work is helping, teaching and working closely with people. Aptly’s interest assessment scores you on the same six scales.
You likely enjoy working directly with young children and find satisfaction in their social and creative growth. You tend to be organized, patient, and comfortable with hands-on artistic activities—painting, building, music—while managing a group dynamic and responding to unpredictable needs.
What it takes
Preparation: Medium preparation (vocational training, an associate degree, or related experience). Most people in this occupation hold a certificate or training program.
Skills that matter most
Knowledge areas
Who is hiring
Pay by state
| State | 25th pct | Median | 75th pct | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| District of Columbia | $45,490 | $62,150 | $77,450 | 2,350 |
| Vermont | $44,400 | $49,730 | $59,440 | 940 |
| Hawaii | $41,280 | $48,780 | $58,270 | 1,410 |
| New Jersey | $39,030 | $48,220 | $64,370 | 16,190 |
| Kansas | $37,450 | $47,750 | $55,640 | 1,330 |
| California | $43,910 | $47,400 | $59,150 | 55,700 |
| Nebraska | $38,080 | $47,040 | $59,990 | 1,630 |
| New York | $38,610 | $46,520 | $59,680 | 23,870 |
| Alaska | $35,210 | $46,130 | $60,880 | 520 |
| Massachusetts | $37,820 | $45,890 | $48,580 | 18,710 |
| Connecticut | $37,510 | $45,740 | $58,880 | 5,230 |
| Washington | $42,800 | $45,660 | $48,490 | 13,210 |
All 50 states, D.C. and Puerto Rico
Certifications people in this field hold
- National Board Certification - Early and Middle Childhood - Physical Education — National Board for Professional Teaching Standards
Training
Aptly members see WIOA-approved programs, colleges and certificates near them, with completion and earnings data, on every Path plan.
Job titles in this occupation
Related occupations
Four short assessments and your background, scored against preschool teachers, except special education and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 25-2011.00 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.