What Age Group do Preschool Teachers Typically Work With?

Posted On June 27,2024

Preschool teachers play a very important role in early childhood education, fostering the development of young minds and preparing them for future academic success. Understanding the age group that preschool teachers typically work with is essential for anyone considering a career in this rewarding field.  An early childhood educator sits in front of a group of young students.

Age Range for Preschool Students

Preschool teachers are primarily responsible for educating and caring for children aged three to five years old. This age range is an important period of time for development, as children undergo significant growth in their cognitive, social, and emotional abilities. In some cases, preschool programs may also include children as young as two or as old as six, depending on the specific program and its guidelines.

Developmental Focus

During the preschool years, children are developing foundational skills that will set the stage for their future learning. Preschool teachers focus on several key areas. Cognitive development is addressed by introducing basic concepts such as numbers, letters, shapes, and colors through interactive activities and play. Social and emotional development is encouraged by fostering positive interactions with peers, helping children learn to share, take turns, and express their feelings appropriately. Physical development is supported through activities that enhance fine and gross motor skills, such as drawing, cutting, climbing, and running. Language development is enhanced by expanding vocabulary and language skills through storytelling, singing, and conversations.

Benefits of Becoming a Preschool Teacher

Choosing a career as a preschool teacher offers numerous rewards, both personally and professionally. Here are some key benefits:

Making a Difference

Preschool teachers have the unique opportunity to make a significant impact on children’s lives during their formative years. By providing a nurturing and stimulating environment, teachers can foster a love for learning and help children develop essential skills that will benefit them throughout their education.

Job Satisfaction

Many preschool teachers find great joy and fulfillment in their work. Watching children grow, learn, and achieve milestones can be incredibly rewarding. The relationships formed with students and their families also add to the sense of satisfaction.

Career Opportunities

A degree in early childhood education opens the door to various career paths. Graduates can work as lead teachers, assistant teachers, or administrators in preschool settings. They may also pursue roles as owners and operators of childcare centers.

Intimate Learning Environment

Working in preschool settings often involves smaller class sizes, allowing for more one-on-one interaction with students. This intimate learning environment enables teachers to tailor their teaching methods to meet the individual needs of each child.

How Athena Career Academy Can Help

Athena Career Academy offers a comprehensive Early Childhood Education Associate Degree Program that provides students with the skills and knowledge needed to excel in this field. Here’s what you can expect from our program:

Comprehensive Curriculum

Our curriculum covers the developmental levels of children from birth through age eight, integrating the standards set by the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) and Ohio’s Early Learning and Development Standards. Students learn how to educate, encourage, and inspire young children using developmentally appropriate practices.

Supportive Learning Environment

Athena provides a welcoming social environment where students build lifelong friendships. We emphasize positive behavior, manners, and self-esteem building exercises to help our students become successful professionals and role models in the future.

Career Preparation

Graduates of our program are prepared for various roles in early childhood education, including owning and operating childcare centers, working as administrators or lead teachers, and many other positions in high demand. 

Start your Journey

Why Choose Athena?

Athena Career Academy stands out for several reasons:

  • Intimate Learning Environment: Our small class sizes ensure personalized attention and support.
  • One-on-One Attention: Our faculty is dedicated to helping each student succeed.
  • Low Tuition Rates: We offer affordable education without compromising on quality.
  • Excellent Career Opportunities: Our graduates are well-prepared for various roles in early childhood education.
  • Commitment to Your Success: We genuinely care about your future and strive to help you achieve your goals.
  • Accelerated Program: Complete your degree in just two days a week.

Admission Requirements

To enroll in our Early Childhood Education 2-Year Associate Degree Program, prospective students must:

  • Attend an informational meeting with an admissions representative.
  • Complete an online application for admission.
  • Attend an individual meeting with a financial aid administrator for funding arrangements.
  • Sign an enrollment agreement.
  • Complete an online State of Ohio Disclosure Course.
  • Submit a copy of a high school transcript or GED transcript.
  • Provide a copy of valid government identification and social security card.
  • Complete an emergency medical form.
  • Attend the orientation session.

Program Structure

The Early Childhood Associate degree program at Athena is typically a two-year program, offered on a quarterly basis with start dates in Fall, Winter, Spring, and Summer. We offer both day and evening classes to accommodate our students’ schedules. The program consists of 92 quarter credit hours, leading to an Associate Degree in Applied Science (AAS) with a major in Early Childhood Education.

Course Offerings

Our program includes a wide range of classes designed to provide a well-rounded education in early childhood development, such as:

  • Foundations of Education
  • Child Development
  • Creative Art, Music, and Play for Early Childhood
  • Early Childhood Literacy
  • Infant Toddler Care and Development
  • Preschool/School-age Programming
  • Observation and Positive Behavioral Management
  • Special Needs and Education
  • Diversity and Multicultural Understanding
  • STEM/STEAM Integration

Start Your Teaching Career Today

Becoming a preschool teacher allows you to make a meaningful impact on young children’s lives while enjoying a fulfilling and rewarding career. At Athena Career Academy, we are dedicated to helping you achieve your dreams with our comprehensive Early Childhood Education program. Contact us today to learn more about how you can get started on your path to becoming a preschool teacher with us.