Become a Teacher

Arkansas Needs Teachers—Here’s How to Become One!

Want to become an early childhood teacher in Arkansas? Here’s a simple guide to get started.

Arkansas Requirements for Early Childhood Educators

To work in childcare or early education in Arkansas, you may need:

• High School Diploma or GED – Basic requirement for many childcare jobs.

• College Degree (Preferred) – Some lead teacher positions may require an Associate or Bachelor’s degree.

• Early Childhood Training – Coursework or training in early childhood education is important.

Certification Options

• CDA Credential – A popular certification for early childhood educators. 

• Arkansas Birth–PreK Teaching Credential – For advanced teaching roles.

Preservice Training Requirements (All Staff)

ChildCareEd provides training aligned with Arkansas preservice requirements, including:

• • Prevention and Control of Infectious Diseases 
  • Prevention of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome and Use of Safe Sleep Practices
  • Administration of Medicine 
  • Prevention of and response to allergic reactions 
  • Building and Physical Premises Safety 
  • Shaken Baby Syndrome 
  • Responding to Emergencies 
  • Handling and Storage of Hazardous Materials
  • Appropriate Precautions in Transportation of Children
  • Abuse and Neglect: Signs and Reporting

Arkansas requires 15 hours of annual training for child care professionals. ChildCareEd makes it easy to complete annual training with a wide selection of approved, job-relevant courses for infant/toddler, preschool, and school-age settings. 

ChildCareEd Courses to Help You Get Started

ChildCareEd offers training programs such as:

• CDA Preschool Credential

• CDA Infant/Toddler Credential

• CDA Family Child Care Credential

Each program includes 120 hours of training that meets CDA requirements.

Steps to Become an Early Childhood Educator in Arkansas

1. Meet education requirements (High School Diploma/GED and training).

2. Complete required preservice training.

3. Gain experience working with children.

4. Earn certifications like the CDA Credential.

5. Apply for jobs in childcare centers, preschools, or family childcare programs.

6. Continue learning through ongoing professional development.