How to Teach Elementary School

Elementary school teachers are a combination of teacher, mother, counselor and nurse. Before pursuing a career as an elementary school teacher, a future teacher should know all the nuances and unwritten expectations of the profession.

Instructions

1. Get some exposure. Before committing your future to any career choice, visit with people currently in the profession. Ask questions. Shadow the elementary teacher through his work day.

2. Get the right education. All states require teachers to have a minimum of a bachelor's degree. Elementary school teachers usually receive a degree in elementary education or interdisciplinary studies. These degrees teach not only the skills and theories specific to elementary education but also cover all of the basic subjects taught in an elementary classroom.

3. Attain certification. Most states and public school systems require teachers to be certified through the state. This process involves proving educational credentials; passing an exam in instructional methods; passing an exam in a specific subject; submitting an application; and paying the appropriate fees to the state certification agency. The process may also include a background check and fingerprinting.

4. Prepare for job interviews. Gather your thoughts ahead of time. Principals are taking a calculated risk hiring a first-year teacher. Show them you understand the challenging and rewarding points of teaching elementary school.

5. Understand elementary school students. Elementary-age students usually range between 5 and 11 years old. This large age range covers bathroom accidents, loosing teeth and the early stages of puberty. Children in that range go from learning the letters to learning the scientific method. Elementary school kids are different from older students and require a teacher who can handle children through all these stages of development.

6. Know the basic subjects. Elementary school teachers teach all the basics: math, reading, science and social studies. They may also be required to teach music, art and gym. An elementary school teacher must be strong in all subject areas.

7. Keep learning. Every day is a learning day for students and teachers. To thrive in an elementary school, learn from your mistakes and successes. Learn from peers as well as the students.