ResumeToolsResources

Preschool Teacher Resume Examples

By Silvia Angeloro

Jul 18, 2024

|

12 min read

Crafting a preschool teacher resume: paint your perfect job picture. Learn how to highlight your teaching skills, child care experience, and love for early education to land that dream teaching gig.

4.70 Average rating

Rated by 348 people

Writing a compelling preschool teacher resume can feel as challenging as managing a room full of energetic toddlers. You may wonder how to effectively showcase your skills and experience, or how to make your resume stand out among a sea of applicants. Often, highlighting the right qualifications, certifications, and teaching philosophy in a clear, concise manner can be tricky. These problems can make the process daunting. But fear not, this guide is here to help you navigate these challenges.

Now, let’s talk about the importance of the right resume template. A well-designed template can be your best friend, helping you neatly organize your information and highlight your strengths. It acts like a classroom lesson plan — structured yet flexible enough to adapt to your unique skills and experiences. The right template ensures your resume looks professional and readable, making a lasting impression on principals and hiring managers.

Don’t miss out on our collection of more than 700 resume examples that you can use for crafting your winning preschool teacher resume.

Key Takeaways

  • A well-designed resume template is crucial for organizing information and highlighting strengths, making the resume look professional and readable.
  • Essential sections of a preschool teacher resume include Contact Information, Professional Summary, Education, Teaching Experience, Certifications, and Skills, with possible additions like Volunteer Experience or Languages Spoken.
  • The reverse-chronological format is preferred for a preschool teacher resume, using modern fonts and clear section headings to enhance readability and ATS compatibility.
  • When writing the experience section, include specific achievements and quantify them to demonstrate impact, using strong action words to describe responsibilities.
  • Highlight both hard skills (e.g., Lesson Planning, Classroom Management) and soft skills (e.g., Patience, Creativity) to show a comprehensive set of competencies relevant to early childhood education.

What to focus on when writing your preschool teacher resume

A preschool teacher resume should paint a picture of a nurturing, competent, and adaptable individual ready to create a positive learning environment. It's important to highlight your relevant experience, educational background, and any specialized training in early childhood education. Showcasing your ability to implement creative lesson plans and manage classroom dynamics effectively can set you apart.

For added impact, consider including:

  • Quantifiable achievements, like "improved class literacy rates by 20%"
  • Certifications, such as CPR and First Aid
  • Extracurricular involvement or volunteer work related to child care
  • Parent testimonials or references.

Must have information on your preschool teacher resume

Crafting a strong resume for a preschool teacher position involves highlighting your key qualifications and experiences. Make sure your resume includes these essential sections:

  • Contact Information
  • Professional Summary
  • Education
  • Teaching Experience
  • Certifications
  • Skills

Consider adding sections like "Professional Development," "Volunteer Experience," or "Languages Spoken" to enhance your resume further and showcase additional qualifications.

Which resume format to choose

For a preschool teacher resume, the best format is the reverse-chronological format, as it highlights your most recent experience first, which is crucial in education. Opt for modern fonts like Rubik or Montserrat instead of Arial or Times New Roman to make your resume stand out. Always save your resume as a PDF to ensure it looks the same on any device or platform. Keep your margins between 0.5 to 1 inch to make your resume easy to read. Use clear section headings like "Experience," "Education," and "Skills," as these make your resume more compatible with Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS).

A preschool teacher resume should include the following sections:

  • Contact Information
  • Professional Summary
  • Work Experience
  • Education
  • Certifications
  • Skills
  • Volunteer Experience
  • References

Resume Mentor's free resume builder handles all of this for you quickly and easily.

How to write a quantifiable resume experience section

Writing the experience section of your preschool teacher resume can seem difficult, but with some guidance, it can be easy. Start with your most recent job and work backwards. Including the past 10 to 15 years of experience is ideal. Ensure that you list job titles that are relevant to teaching or childcare. Tailoring your resume for the job you're applying for makes your resume stand out. Use strong action words to show your achievements.

Here's a poorly written resume experience example:

Employment History
Preschool Teacher
ABC Preschool
New York, NY
Company Description
  • Taught children.
  • Created lesson plans.
  • Monitored students.

This example is bad because it is vague and does not show any achievements. "Taught children," "Created lesson plans," and "Monitored students" do not give specific details or accomplishments. It does not indicate the impact you made in those roles.

Here's an outstanding example:

Professional Experience
Lead Preschool Teacher
Little Stars Preschool
San Francisco, CA
A preschool committed to creative and engaging learning.
  • Increased student readiness for kindergarten by 30% through innovative curriculum.
  • Created and led over 50 hands-on activities yearly to engage children in learning.
  • Developed a parent-teacher communication system that improved engagement by 40%.

This is a good example because it uses specific numbers to show your impact. "Increased student readiness for kindergarten by 30%" and "Developed a parent-teacher communication system that improved engagement by 40%" are clear, concrete achievements. They help you stand out and show what you have accomplished in your role.

Creating a polished resume is all about showing what you have achieved. Use these tips and examples to help craft a strong experience section for your preschool teacher resume.

Preschool teacher resume experience examples

Dive into these shining resume examples and see how you can make your preschool teaching experience pop! Whether you're the class clown or the glue holding it all together, we've got you covered.

Achievement-focused

When listing achievements, focus on quantifiable successes. Highlight awards, recognitions, and any milestones reached.

Work Experience

Preschool Teacher

Little Stars Preschool

Aug 2018 - May 2022

  • Awarded 'Teacher of the Year' for outstanding educational contributions.
  • Developed and implemented a new reading program that improved literacy rates by 20%.
  • Organized school-wide events that raised community involvement by 30%.

Skills-focused

Emphasize the skill sets that make you the ultimate preschool teacher. Think of creativity, empathy, and organizational skills.

Work Experience

Preschool Teacher

Sunshine Academy

Sep 2017 - Jun 2021

  • Utilized creative teaching methods to engage children in interactive learning.
  • Demonstrated strong classroom management, maintaining a positive learning environment.
  • Displayed excellent communication skills with parents to discuss students' progress.

Responsibility-focused

Showcase how you take charge by listing your primary duties and responsibilities. Emphasize reliability and accountability.

Work Experience

Preschool Teacher

Bright Horizons Learning Center

Jan 2015 - Dec 2019

  • Supervised and guided a classroom of 20 preschoolers in daily activities.
  • Maintained accurate records of students' progress and attendance.
  • Assumed leadership role during emergency drills ensuring all safety protocols were followed.

Project-focused

Highlight any special projects you've led or participated in. Detail your role and the success of the project.

Work Experience

Preschool Teacher

Little Explorers Preschool

Feb 2016 - Nov 2020

  • Led a year-long arts and crafts project that culminated in a gallery exhibition for parents.
  • Coordinated a gardening project that taught students about nature and responsibility.
  • Organized a language immersion program focusing on basic Spanish vocabulary for preschoolers.

Result-focused

Focus on the positive results you've achieved. Use specific numbers or metrics to show your impact.

Work Experience

Preschool Teacher

Happy Hearts Academy

Mar 2013 - Jul 2018

  • Increased student engagement levels by 40% through interactive learning activities.
  • Improved classroom attendance rates by 25% over a period of two years.
  • Enhanced parent-teacher communication, resulting in 95% parent satisfaction rate.

Industry-Specific Focus

Tailor your experience to the preschool education industry. Demonstrate familiarity with industry standards and practices.

Work Experience

Preschool Teacher

Early Learning Preparatory

Apr 2014 - Dec 2019

  • Implemented state curriculum standards to ensure compliance with educational requirements.
  • Participated in continuous professional development, staying current with preschool education trends.
  • Evaluated and adapted lesson plans to meet the developmental needs of all students.

Problem-Solving Focused

Describe situations where you identified issues and implemented solutions. Showcase your critical thinking abilities.

Work Experience

Preschool Teacher

Tiny Tots Preschool

May 2012 - Aug 2017

  • Resolved classroom conflicts by implementing a 'peace corner' for conflict resolution.
  • Implemented behavioral intervention strategies for students with special needs.
  • Adapted lesson plans to accommodate various learning styles, increasing comprehension rates.

Innovation-focused

Highlight creative and innovative methods you’ve employed in teaching. Stress how they have benefitted your classroom.

Work Experience

Preschool Teacher

Creative Minds Preschool

Jun 2016 - Oct 2021

  • Introduced a digital learning station that incorporated educational apps.
  • Developed a unique storytelling method combining puppetry and interactive dialogue.
  • Implemented a sensory play area to enhance tactile learning experiences.

Leadership-focused

Emphasize times when you led teams or guided other educators. Prove your mentorship and leadership skills.

Work Experience

Preschool Teacher

Future Leaders Preschool

Jul 2010 - May 2015

  • Mentored new teachers, providing guidance and support during their first year.
  • Led a team of educators in developing a cohesive and comprehensive curriculum.
  • Organized and led professional development workshops for fellow teachers.

Customer-focused

Focus on how you have worked to keep parents and guardians engaged and satisfied with your teaching methods.

Work Experience

Preschool Teacher

Parent Partnership Preschool

Aug 2011 - Mar 2016

  • Created regular newsletters to update parents on classroom activities and progress.
  • Held quarterly parent-teacher meetings to discuss student development.
  • Developed a parent volunteer program to increase parental involvement in school activities.

Growth-focused

Show your commitment to personal and professional growth. Highlight courses taken, certifications earned, and improvements made.

Work Experience

Preschool Teacher

Learning Tree Preschool

Sep 2013 - Jan 2019

  • Completed a certification in early childhood education.
  • Attended workshops on emotional intelligence and classroom management.
  • Implemented new teaching strategies learned from ongoing professional development courses.

Efficiency-focused

Show how you improved efficiency in your classroom. Point out methods or tools that saved time or resources.

Work Experience

Preschool Teacher

Efficient Learning Preschool

Nov 2014 - Jun 2020

  • Introduced a daily schedule to streamline and manage classroom activities.
  • Created a system for organizing classroom materials, reducing transition times between activities.
  • Implemented digital attendance tracking, saving time and improving accuracy.

Technology-focused

Point out how you’ve integrated technology into the learning environment. Highlight positive impacts of these tech innovations.

Work Experience

Preschool Teacher

Tech-Savvy Preschool

Jan 2011 - Dec 2018

  • Incorporated tablets for interactive learning activities and curriculum support.
  • Utilized educational software to track and analyze student progress.
  • Facilitated virtual classroom events to enhance remote learning capabilities.

Collaboration-focused

Emphasize your work with other teachers, staff, and parents. Showcase projects where collaboration played a crucial role.

Work Experience

Preschool Teacher

Community Preschool

Feb 2012 - Jul 2017

  • Worked closely with other teachers to design interdisciplinary lesson plans.
  • Collaborated with parents to create individualized learning plans for students.
  • Partnered with local community organizations to enhance classroom learning experiences.

Training and Development focused

Show how you have contributed to the training and development of new teachers or the development of training materials.

Work Experience

Preschool Teacher

Training Academy Preschool

Mar 2010 - May 2014

  • Developed comprehensive training materials for new teachers to ease the onboarding process.
  • Conducted training sessions focused on innovative teaching methods and classroom management.
  • Created a mentorship program that paired new teachers with experienced staff for continuous development.

Write your preschool teacher resume summary section

When writing a resume summary section as a preschool teacher, you should clearly highlight your key skills and experiences. Make sure to keep it concise and focused on your strengths. Describe yourself in a way that shows your passion for teaching and your ability to manage a classroom effectively. Use simple language and avoid jargon.

To describe yourself in a resume summary, think about what makes you unique and suited for the job. Highlight specific skills like "patience," "creativity," and "classroom management." Clearly state your years of experience and any special qualifications or certifications you hold.

The difference between a resume summary and other sections like a resume objective, resume profile, and a summary of qualifications lies in their focus. A resume summary gives a brief overview of your experience and skills. A resume objective focuses on your career goals and what you want to achieve. A resume profile is similar to a summary but usually includes brief points about your career highlights. A summary of qualifications is a bullet-point list of your most important accomplishments and skills, often suited for more experienced professionals.

SUMMARY
I am a good teacher who likes kids. I have some experience with kids and love to play with them. I can work with other teachers and follow the school rules. Looking for a job to help kids.

The first example is poorly written because it lacks specifics and professionalism. Phrases like "I am a good teacher who likes kids" are vague and offer no real insight into your skills or experience. The summary should focus on concrete abilities and achievements rather than generic statements. Additionally, "some experience with kids" is not specific enough to be impactful, and "love to play with them" does not adequately reflect the role of a preschool teacher.

SUMMARY
Dedicated preschool teacher with 5 years of experience creating engaging and educational activities. Proven ability to manage a lively classroom while fostering a nurturing environment. Holds a Bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education and CPR certification. Seeking to contribute my skills and passion to [School's Name].

The second example is well-written because it provides concrete details about your experience and qualifications. Words like "dedicated" and "proven ability" convey commitment and competence. Specific qualifications such as "Bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education" and "CPR certification" add credibility. Mentioning "engaging and educational activities" shows an understanding of the job requirements. Finally, expressing a desire to contribute to a specific school demonstrates enthusiasm and preparation.

Listing your preschool teacher skills on your resume

When writing your skills section for a preschool teacher resume, you have the option to create a standalone section or weave your skills into other sections like your experience and summary. Highlighting your strengths and soft skills is crucial, as they show your ability to create a nurturing and effective learning environment. Hard skills, on the other hand, refer to specific, teachable abilities or knowledge, like lesson planning and classroom management.

Your skills and strengths can also be considered as resume keywords. These keywords make your resume more searchable for both automated systems and hiring managers looking for specific qualifications. Including relevant skills in your experience and summary sections can reinforce your expertise and improve your chances of standing out.

Skills
Classroom Management
Lesson Planning
Child Development
Creative Activities
Behavioral Guidance
Parental Communication
First Aid & CPR
Early Literacy Instruction

An example of a standalone skills section for a preschool teacher resume is shown above. It is effective because it clearly lists the specific skills relevant to the job, making it easy for hiring managers to quickly see your qualifications. Each skill is directly related to the responsibilities and needs of a preschool teacher, highlighting your specialized expertise in child education and care.

Best hard skills to feature on your preschool teacher resume

Hard skills in a preschool teacher's resume should show your technical expertise and specific knowledge necessary for early childhood education. They should communicate your ability to plan, execute, and manage educational activities effectively.

Hard Skills

  • Classroom Management
  • Lesson Planning
  • Child Development
  • Behavioral Guidance
  • Early Literacy Instruction
  • Numeracy Instruction
  • Educational Technology
  • Child Safety Protocols
  • First Aid & CPR
  • Curriculum Design
  • Arts and Crafts Instruction
  • Music and Movement Instruction
  • Sensory Activities
  • Special Needs Education
  • Assessment and Evaluation

Best soft skills to feature on your preschool teacher resume

Soft skills for a preschool teacher should highlight your interpersonal abilities and temperament. They should communicate your capacity to foster a positive learning environment and build strong relationships with children, parents, and staff.

Soft Skills

  • Patience
  • Creativity
  • Communication Skills
  • Empathy
  • Leadership
  • Problem-Solving
  • Teamwork
  • Adaptability
  • Time Management
  • Conflict Resolution
  • Observational Skills
  • Organizational Skills
  • Positive Reinforcement
  • Encouragement
  • Cultural Sensitivity

How to include your education on your resume

The education section is an important part of your resume as a preschool teacher. It shows your qualifications and background. This section should be tailored to the job you are applying for, so leave out any irrelevant education.

If you had a high GPA, you can include it to show your academic excellence. For example, you can write it as "GPA: 3.8/4.0." If you graduated with honors like cum laude, be sure to include that too. It can enhance your resume. When you list your degree, include the degree name, the institution's name, and the dates you attended.

Education
Bachelor of Arts in English
Some University
GPA: 2.9/4.0
2.9
/
4.0
  • Dean's List 2015

This example is bad. The degree is not related to preschool teaching, and the GPA is low. The Dean's List mention does not add much value.

Education
Bachelor of Science in Early Childhood Education, cum laude
University of Child Development
GPA: 3.8/4.0
3.8
/
4.0

This example is good. The degree is directly related to the position. The high GPA and cum laude honor show academic achievement. The details are relevant and concise.

How to include preschool teacher certificates on your resume

Including a certificates section in your preschool teacher resume is crucial. Certifications highlight your qualifications and commitment to the role. You can position the certificates section prominently in your header.

List the name of the certification first to grab attention. Include the date you received the certification to show it's current. Add the issuing organization to validate the certificate's credibility. For instance:

Certificates
Certified Early Childhood Educator
National Association for the Education of Young Children
First Aid & CPR
American Red Cross

.

This approach ensures that anyone scanning your resume instantly sees your credentials. Below, you’ll find a standalone certificates section example that’s ideal for a preschool teacher.

[here was the JSON object 2]

This example is effective because it includes certifications directly relevant to preschool teaching, adding value and trust. Having nationally recognized certifications like those from the National Association for the Education of Young Children and the American Red Cross makes your qualifications stand out. This helps potential employers see your commitment and readiness for the job.

Extra sections to include in your preschool teacher resume

Creating a well-rounded resume for a preschool teacher involves highlighting not just your professional experience, but also your personal skills and interests that make you an exceptional candidate. Including sections such as languages, hobbies, volunteer work, and books can enhance your resume and make you stand out to potential employers.

  • Language section — List any languages you speak fluently or proficiently. Show your ability to communicate with diverse children and their families, creating a more inclusive classroom environment.
  • Hobbies and interests section — Highlight hobbies that align with your teaching style or interests that demonstrate patience and creativity. Engage potential employers by showcasing activities that can be translated into effective teaching strategies in the classroom.
  • Volunteer work section — Include any volunteer experience related to child care or education. Demonstrate your commitment to working with children and your ability to contribute positively to their growth and development.
  • Books section — Mention any educational books you have read that influence your teaching philosophy. Show your dedication to continuous learning and improving your educational methods.

A well-structured resume that includes these sections can showcase your diverse skills and interests, making you a more attractive candidate for a preschool teaching position. Each of these sections can provide insights into your personality and professional capabilities, painting a complete picture of who you are as an educator.

Pair your preschool teacher resume with a cover letter

A cover letter is a document that accompanies your resume when you apply for a job. It introduces you to the employer and showcases why you are a good fit for the position. A well-written cover letter can help set you apart from other applicants by highlighting your skills, experience, and enthusiasm for the role.

For a preschool teacher, the cover letter should focus on your passion for early childhood education. Mention your qualifications, such as a degree in Early Childhood Education, and any relevant certifications. Discuss your experience teaching young children and include examples of how you create engaging and educational activities. Emphasize your ability to communicate well with both children and parents, and highlight any additional skills like first aid training.

Start making your cover letter today with Resume Mentor's cover letter builder. It's easy to use and lets you export your cover letter as a PDF, protecting your content and formatting.

Alexander Taylor

San Diego, California

+1-(234)-555-1234

help@resumementor.com


Dear Hiring Manager,

I am deeply interested in the Preschool Teacher position at your esteemed institution. I am drawn to your commitment to fostering a love for learning in early childhood, which aligns perfectly with my own educational philosophy.

At Bright Horizons, I successfully implemented a comprehensive reading curriculum that led to a 25% improvement in students' literacy skills within just six months. My work involved designing individualized reading plans, which were highly appreciated by the parents, resulting in a 95% satisfaction rate. This experience has equipped me with the skills to create and deliver engaging and impactful educational programs tailored to diverse learning needs.

I would love the opportunity to discuss how my background, skills, and philosophies align with the goals of your team. Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the possibility of contributing to your organization and would be delighted to schedule an interview at your earliest convenience.

Sincerely,

Alexander Taylor

Preschool Teacher
Side Banner Cta Image

Make job-hunting a breeze!

Build your resume and focus on finding the right job

Build Resume