How to Become a Certified Lead Teacher for Infants & Toddlers
- 1). Request information about infant and toddler care teacher requirements from the Department of Education in your state. Credentials and programs vary from state to state. States that require associate- or bachelor's-level professional credentials for lead infant and toddler care teachers include California, Vermont, Massachusetts, Montana and New York.
- 2). Major in Early Childhood Education at a college or university. If you already have a degree, you may apply to take specific courses in the Early Childhood Education Department that will enable you to receive an infant and toddler credential. MassBay Community College in Massachusetts, for example, offers a program for students who want to work with children ages 0 to 3. The state of Vermont offers a teaching credential for ages 0 to 3rd grade. Some states may require that you work in an infant or toddler room before certification.
- 3). Gain experience as an infant and toddler caregiver and teacher. Lead teachers tend to have more experience than their assistants and regular teachers. Lead teachers bring their experiences to the care center in planning programs for the infants and toddlers. Visit care centers and apply to work as a substitute teacher, or apply for a specific job opening to gain experience.
Source...