The early childhood education occupation can be one of the most gratifying experiences in life. There are certain skills successful preschool teachers build throughout their education and career. For example, preschool teachers must cultivate a keen sense of developmental turning points connected to childhood years, in order to create an age-appropriate and engaging curriculum. What other skills do preschool teachers need to create an engaging educational experience for students and parents alike?
Patience
Skilled early childhood educators often possess the “patience of a saint” as the saying goes. Patience is necessary to not only control the classroom but maintain trust with students. Disciplinary problems can develop from issues outside of the classroom, so learning to be patient with children who act out is important. The daily classroom routine is guided by a preschool instructor but can be challenged by children who are struggling. Preschool instructors need to be detail-oriented yet patient to provide a consistent sense of structure and safety for their students.
Communication Skills
The early childhood years instructor should have the ability to introduce brand-new concepts to students using a variety of mediums while catering to different learning styles. Additionally, early childhood educators must be able to relay information to parents on their child’s performance just as fluently as they are able to communicate with students. Communication is crucial in handling diverse characteristics and learning styles.
Creativity
Preschool teachers use creativity to make a wide range of activities not only enjoyable but digestible for all students. Preschool is the time to discover the world with play as well as a wide variety of interactive styles. An effective educator will have a varied collection of educational tasks to engage their students. Lesson preparation requires research, critical thinking and lots of creativity.
Organization
Keeping precise lesson strategies and records is important for appropriate documentation of a child’s education. The educator is accountable for developing an educational program that fulfills state and nationwide standards as well as extract the lesson plans to adhere to their recommended educational program.
Enroll in FNU’s Associate of Arts in Education Degree Program
Enrolling in a preschool educator training program can help you build upon your skills, attributes and talents. Although the program is designed for students planning to pursue a four-year bachelor’s degree in education, an Associate of Arts in Education degree can set you up to become an early childhood educator.
During the program, you will take courses such as:
- Classroom Management
- Teaching Diverse Populations
- Technology in Education
- Human Growth and Development
- Children’s Literature
Begin your journey as an educator at Florida National University. Contact us today at 305-821-3333 for more information on our Associate of Arts in Education program.
