Day in the life
A Day in the Life of a Preschool Teacher
What preschool teachers actually do from the start of a shift to the end: the tasks, tools, schedule and realities of the job.
Set up learning centers and greet families at drop-off. From there, the day usually includes plan play-based lessons and activities, teach early literacy, math and social skills, and supervise children and keep them safe. Most work full-time during the school year or year-round in childcare centers, with some early and late shifts.
Hour by hour: a typical shift
No two days are identical, but this timeline reflects a realistic day for a preschool teacher working full time.
- Set up learning centers and greet families at drop-off.
- Lead morning circle with songs, weather and the day’s plan.
- Guide small groups through a counting game.
- Supervise outdoor play and coach sharing.
- Serve lunch and model table manners.
- Write observations during rest time.
- Share a child’s progress with a parent at pickup.
Where preschool teachers work
Preschool teachers work in classrooms and playgrounds that are busy, noisy and active. The job involves bending, lifting children and staying alert all day.
Hours and schedule
Most work full-time during the school year or year-round in childcare centers, with some early and late shifts.
Tasks you’ll do most often
- Plan play-based lessons and activities
- Teach early literacy, math and social skills
- Supervise children and keep them safe
- Manage daily routines and transitions
- Observe and assess child development
- Communicate with families
- Follow licensing and health rules
Tools you’ll use every day
- Learning center materials
- Books and art supplies
- Assessment tools such as Teaching Strategies GOLD
- Family communication apps
- First aid kits
- Classroom schedules
The best and hardest parts of the job
What people like
- Meaningful work with young children
- Creative, playful days
- Steady demand
- Associate degree path
What’s hard
- Pay is modest
- Physically and emotionally demanding
- Exposure to illnesses
- Paperwork and licensing rules
You’ll likely thrive if…
- I love working with young children
- I’m patient and calm
- I enjoy creative activities
- I can handle noise and energy
- I want to make a difference early
- I can communicate with families
Not sure? Take the free Preschool Teacher fit quiz or the Career Match Quiz.
Staying safe on the job
- Keep required ratios and count children often
- Follow handwashing and sanitizing routines
- Know allergies and emergency plans
- Supervise outdoor play closely