I have volunteered to take care of children at school meetings, preschool, after-school programs and at the children's ministry. I have experienced the joy of working with children and learning about them as I volunteer. Teachers, as well as parents, suggest that I go into the field of education. I have, in fact considered a career in education as a preschool teacher. The duties of a preschool teacher include introducing three to six year old children to school. A preschool teacher has a college education, training, and has many duties, and responsibilities. They have a great work environment and a good salary with benefits. First, preschool teachers require a Certificate of Achievement in Child Development including study in psychology, and training in helping children and families cope with crisis. Communication skills and learning about issues affecting families and children are necessary, but training starts when seeking work as a teacher's aide. Training to be a preschool teacher will depend on the level of schooling required. This varies by the degrees offered, such as: certificates or an associate degree, all requiring fees ranging from $780 full-time to $26 per unit part-time. Secondly, Preschool teachers have many duties and responsibilities in regards to their work environment. Preschool teachers provide activities to stimulate children's growth in language, social, and motor sills, such as: learning to listen to instruction, playing with others, and using play equipment. A typical day in a preschool is filled with arts and crafts, music, language and numbers games, and various other fun things. Construction paper shapes and free play help children develop social skills. Every activity gives children an opportunity to learn. Thirdly, the salary for a preschool teacher depends on experience, level of education, and the school and center where the teacher works. Salaries range from about $2,800 per month to $34,700 per year. Public schools usually have benefits, insurance and retirement. The rewards are priceless, because children’s smiles and hugs pay off any job that one has a passion for. In summary, I will keep volunteering at church with the children's ministry and take all the courses in early childhood at my local community college to receive a Certificate of Achievement as a Child Development teacher, as well as the required classes for an Associates Degree. It will require at least 12 units to get my teaching licenses through these programs. But once I am finished, I can start my career as a preschool teacher.