🌴 Play, Learn, Teach: How to Become a Preschool Teacher in California - post

🌴 Play, Learn, Teach: How to Become a Preschool Teacher in California

Do you dream of turning #playtime into powerful learning moments — all while enjoying California’s sunshine and smiles? Becoming a preschool #teacher in California is more than a job — it’s a joyful mission to shape young minds at one of the most crucial stages of #development.

If you're ready to launch your #early-childhood education #career, here's your step-by-step guide — with support from ChildCareEd.com every step of the way.

🍎 Why Preschool Teaching Rocks

Preschool #teachers in California get to:

• Fostering curiosity and creativity in 3–5-year-olds

• Music in Early Childhood

• Supporting Social Relationships 

• Make a lasting impact on #school-readiness and confidence

If you're energetic, empathetic, and love helping little ones learn, this could be your dream job.

🛠️ Step-by-Step: How to Become a Preschool Teacher in California

Meet the Licensing Requirements

To work in a licensed #preschool in California, the Community Care Licensing Division (CCLD) requires teachers to have:

✅ At least 12 units of Early Childhood Education (ECE) coursework
✅ At least 6 months (or 175 days) of experience in a licensed child care center
✅ A high school diploma or equivalent

Need help getting those 12 ECE units? ChildCareEd’s online courses are a fast, flexible way to get qualified.

Take Approved ECE Courses Online

The required 12 units must include:

• 3 units in child development

• 3 units in child, family, and community

• 6 units in program/curriculum planning (e.g., preschool curriculum, classroom management, etc.)

You can complete these courses online at your own pace through ChildCareEd.com, where all training is aligned with California’s licensing standards.

👉 Browse ChildCareEd’s course catalog now to start earning your credits.

Gain Hands-On Experience

You’ll need at least 175 days of 3+ hours/day working in a licensed preschool or child care center.

Look for roles like:

• Assistant teacher

• Classroom aide

• Intern or volunteer in #early-childhood programs

Tip: Many employers will help you complete coursework while you gain experience — especially if you’re enrolled in ChildCareEd’s online training.

Get CPR, First Aid & Background Checks

All preschool teachers in California must also:

• Pass a criminal background check

• Complete Pediatric CPR & First Aid training

• Take Mandated Reporter Training for child #abuse reporting

Some of these can also be found as online training modules through ChildCareEd or your local licensing agency.

Optional: Earn a Child Development Permit

While not required for all private #preschools, the California Child Development Permit can expand your job options — especially in public or Head Start programs.

ChildCareEd’s courses also help fulfill requirements for the Associate Teacher Permit and beyond. Click here to explore your permit path.

🎓 Why Choose ChildCareEd.com?

Here’s why thousands of future preschool teachers choose us:

✨ State-approved ECE coursework
✨ 100% online and self-paced — work while you learn
✨ Budget-friendly with payment plans
✨ Expert support and progress tracking

Ready to start your career? Sign up today and take the first class toward your dream job!

🌟 Your Future in Early Education Starts Now

California’s little learners are waiting for amazing #educators like you. With sunshine, song time, and story circles ahead — preschool teaching offers a fulfilling career that changes lives, including your own.

Don’t wait. Take the first step toward becoming a certified preschool teacher in California with ChildCareEd’s courses today.