25 Preschool Teacher Interview Questions and Answers

Preschool teachers are responsible for the education and care of children who are three to five years old. They help prepare children for kindergarten by teaching them basic skills, such as counting, reading, and writing. They also encourage children to explore their creativity and engage in social activities.

If you’re looking for a preschool teaching job, you’ll likely need to go through a job interview. To help you prepare, we’ve compiled a list of common preschool teacher interview questions and answers.

1. Are you certified or licensed to teach preschool age children?

The interviewer may ask this question to determine whether you have the necessary certification or license to teach preschool age children. If you are not certified or licensed, explain what steps you took to become qualified for teaching young children and how it helped you in your career.

Example: “Yes, I am certified and licensed to teach preschool age children. I have a Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education from ABC University and I am also certified by the state of XYZ as an early childhood educator. My experience working with young children has been extensive over the past five years. During that time, I’ve had the opportunity to work with a variety of ages, abilities, and backgrounds. I’m confident in my ability to create a safe, nurturing environment for all students while providing them with engaging learning experiences. I believe that each child should be treated with respect and given the opportunity to reach their full potential. I’m passionate about helping children grow and develop into successful learners and citizens.”

2. What are some of the most important skills that a preschool teacher should have?

This question is an opportunity to show the interviewer that you have a strong understanding of what it takes to be successful in this role. When answering, consider which skills are most important for your own success as a teacher and highlight those.

Example: “As a preschool teacher, I believe that the most important skills to have are patience and creativity. Patience is essential when working with young children as they learn at their own pace and need plenty of guidance and support. It’s also important to be creative in order to come up with engaging activities that will keep the students interested and motivated.

In addition, strong communication skills are key for any preschool teacher. Being able to effectively communicate with both parents and children is necessary in order to ensure everyone is on the same page. Finally, it’s important to be organized and detail-oriented so that all tasks can be completed efficiently and accurately.”

3. How do you create an environment that is fun and engaging for your students?

Interviewers want to know how you plan and execute fun activities for your students. They also want to see that you understand the importance of keeping children engaged in their learning environment. Show them that you can create a classroom that is both educational and entertaining by describing some of the ways you’ve done this in the past.

Example: “Creating an environment that is fun and engaging for my students is something I take great pride in. My goal is to make sure every student feels safe, respected, and excited to learn each day. To do this, I use a variety of activities and strategies to keep the classroom atmosphere positive.

I start by getting to know each student individually so that I can create lesson plans tailored to their interests and learning styles. This helps me create activities that are both challenging and enjoyable. I also like to incorporate music, art, and movement into lessons to engage all types of learners. Finally, I foster a sense of community in the classroom by encouraging collaboration and teamwork among the students.”

4. What is your teaching philosophy?

Interviewers ask this question to learn more about your teaching style and how you plan to implement it in their school. When answering, think of a few key principles that guide your teaching methods. Explain how these principles help students develop important skills and behaviors.

Example: “My teaching philosophy is rooted in the belief that all children are capable of learning and growing, no matter their background or circumstances. I strive to create an environment where each student feels safe, respected, and supported as they explore new ideas and concepts. My goal is to foster a sense of curiosity and creativity while also developing critical thinking skills.

I believe it’s important to provide students with hands-on activities and experiences that will help them build a strong foundation for future learning. I use a variety of techniques such as play-based learning, visual aids, music, and art to engage my students and keep them engaged. I also emphasize social-emotional development, providing opportunities for students to practice problem solving and communication skills.”

5. Provide an example of a time when you had to use creative problem-solving skills to resolve an issue with a student.

Interviewers ask this question to learn more about your problem-solving skills and how you use them in the classroom. Use examples from previous positions where you had to resolve a conflict or challenge with students, such as helping a student overcome an obstacle or encouraging them to try something new.

Example: “I recently had a student who was having difficulty following instructions. After speaking with the parents, I learned that this behavior was due to their home life and lack of structure. To help the student better understand expectations, I created an individualized plan for them that included visual cues and positive reinforcement. This allowed me to provide more consistent guidance and support in the classroom.

To further address the issue, I worked with the student one-on-one to develop problem solving skills. We would practice scenarios together where they had to come up with creative solutions to hypothetical problems. Through this process, the student began to gain confidence in their own ability to think critically and solve issues independently.”

6. If a student was having a difficult time interacting with the other students, how would you handle it?

This question can help the interviewer determine how you handle conflict resolution and problem solving. Use examples from your experience to explain how you would approach this situation, what steps you would take to resolve it and how you would ensure that all students are able to interact with one another in a safe environment.

Example: “If a student was having difficulty interacting with the other students, I would first take the time to get to know them better. It is important to understand their individual needs and interests in order to create an environment that encourages positive social interactions. I would also observe how they interact with others and look for ways to help them build relationships.

I believe in providing a safe space where children can express themselves without fear of judgement or criticism. I would use strategies such as role-playing and problem solving activities to help them learn how to communicate effectively and resolve conflicts. I would also provide guidance on appropriate behavior and encourage positive reinforcement when they make progress. Finally, I would involve parents and guardians in the process so that we can work together to ensure the child’s success.”

7. What would you do if you noticed that a student was starting to act out during class?

Interviewers want to know how you handle challenging situations with students. They also want to see if you have any strategies for handling these situations that they may not be familiar with. In your answer, explain what steps you would take to help the student and regain control of the classroom.

Example: “If I noticed a student starting to act out during class, my first step would be to assess the situation. I would try to identify any underlying issues that may have caused the behavior and address them in an appropriate manner. For example, if the student was feeling overwhelmed or frustrated with a task, I would provide additional support and guidance to help them understand it better.

I would also take the time to talk to the student one-on-one and find out what is causing their behavior. This could include asking questions about how they are feeling, providing reassurance and understanding, and offering positive reinforcement for good behavior. Through this conversation, I would work to build a trusting relationship with the student so that they feel comfortable coming to me when they need help.”

8. How well do you handle stress while working with students?

Interviewers may ask this question to learn more about your ability to handle challenges and remain calm in the classroom. They want to know that you can keep a positive attitude while working with students who might be experiencing stress or anxiety. In your answer, try to explain how you manage stress and provide an example of a time when you did so successfully.

Example: “I understand that working with children can be stressful at times. However, I have developed strategies to help me manage my stress levels while teaching. First of all, I make sure to take breaks throughout the day and practice mindfulness techniques such as deep breathing or meditation. This helps me stay focused and calm in difficult situations. Secondly, I try to remain positive when interacting with students and focus on solutions rather than problems. Finally, I always keep an open line of communication with parents and administrators so that if I am feeling overwhelmed, I can reach out for help.”

9. Do you have any experience working with special needs students?

Special needs students are often a part of the preschool classroom. Employers ask this question to make sure you have experience working with these types of students and how you plan on handling them in your classroom. If you do not have any experience, consider asking about what special needs services they offer at their school.

Example: “Yes, I have extensive experience working with special needs students. During my time as a Preschool Teacher, I had the opportunity to work with several children who had various disabilities and learning difficulties. My approach was always to create an individualized plan for each student that focused on their strengths and addressed any areas of difficulty. This included providing extra support in the classroom, such as one-on-one instruction or small group activities. I also worked closely with parents and other professionals to ensure that the child’s needs were being met. Through this process, I saw many successes and was able to help these students make great strides in their development.”

10. When teaching a lesson, how do you make sure that all students are paying attention and listening?

This question can help an interviewer understand how you plan and execute lessons. It also helps them see if your teaching style matches the school’s methods for keeping students engaged in class. When answering this question, it can be helpful to mention a specific strategy or two that you use to keep students focused on what you’re saying.

Example: “When teaching a lesson, I make sure that all students are paying attention and listening by using a variety of strategies. First, I create an engaging environment in the classroom where the children feel comfortable and excited to learn. This includes providing hands-on activities and visual aids to keep them interested. Secondly, I use positive reinforcement techniques such as praising good behavior and giving rewards for participation. Finally, I make sure to ask questions throughout my lessons to ensure that the students are actively engaged and understanding the material. By implementing these strategies, I am able to keep the students focused and attentive during my lessons.”

11. We want our teachers to be able to work well with other teachers and staff members. Describe a time when you were able to collaborate with another teacher to improve a student’s learning experience.

Collaboration is an important skill for teachers to have. It allows them to work together and share ideas, which can lead to more effective teaching methods. When answering this question, it can be helpful to mention a specific example of how you worked with another teacher or staff member to improve your classroom’s learning environment.

Example: “I have always enjoyed working with other teachers to create a positive and enriching learning environment for students. Recently, I worked with another teacher in my preschool classroom to develop an innovative project-based learning experience for our students. We collaborated on the curriculum, resources, and activities that would be used to engage the students in meaningful ways.

We also discussed how we could use technology to enhance the student’s learning experience. We decided to incorporate iPads into the lesson plan so that the students could explore their creativity through digital media. This allowed us to provide a more interactive and engaging learning experience for our students.”

12. Describe your process for evaluating a student’s progress and adjusting your lessons accordingly.

Interviewers may ask this question to learn more about your teaching style and how you adapt lessons for students who need extra help. Use examples from past experiences to explain the steps you take when assessing a student’s progress and adjusting your lesson plans accordingly.

Example: “I believe that evaluating a student’s progress is an essential part of teaching. I use a variety of methods to assess my students’ understanding and growth in the classroom. First, I observe their behavior during activities and interactions with other students. This helps me identify areas where they may need more support or guidance. Second, I ask questions throughout lessons to gauge their comprehension. Finally, I administer periodic assessments to track their progress over time.

Once I have assessed my students’ progress, I adjust my lessons accordingly. For example, if I find that a student is struggling with a certain concept, I will break it down into smaller chunks and provide additional practice opportunities. If a student has mastered a skill, I will challenge them by introducing new concepts or providing more complex tasks. My goal is to ensure that all students are learning at their own pace and reaching their full potential.”

13. What makes you an ideal candidate for working with preschool age children?

This question is an opportunity to show the interviewer that you have a passion for working with children in this age group. You can answer by describing your previous experience working with preschoolers and how it has prepared you for this role.

Example: “I believe my experience and qualifications make me an ideal candidate for working with preschool age children. I have been a Preschool Teacher for the past five years, during which time I have developed strong relationships with both students and their families. My teaching style is student-centered, meaning that I strive to create a learning environment where each child feels safe, respected, and valued. I also use creative strategies such as hands-on activities, games, and stories to engage young learners.

In addition to my classroom experience, I am certified in Early Childhood Education and hold a degree in Child Development. This has allowed me to gain a deeper understanding of how children learn and develop, enabling me to better meet the individual needs of each student. Furthermore, I am committed to staying up-to-date on best practices in early childhood education and regularly attend professional development workshops to further my knowledge.”

14. Which teaching methods do you prefer to use when teaching a lesson?

Interviewers may ask this question to learn more about your teaching style and how you plan lessons. When answering, it can be helpful to mention a few methods that you enjoy using in the classroom and why.

Example: “I believe that the most effective teaching methods are those which take into account the individual learning styles of each student. I prefer to use a variety of techniques, such as hands-on activities, visual aids, and verbal instruction, to ensure that all students understand the material.

For example, when introducing a new concept, I like to provide opportunities for students to explore it through creative play or engaging projects. This allows them to develop an understanding of the topic in their own way. I also make sure to incorporate visuals whenever possible, such as pictures, diagrams, or videos, to help reinforce the lesson. Finally, I always provide verbal guidance throughout the process so that students can ask questions and receive feedback on their progress.”

15. What do you think is the most important thing that a preschool teacher can do for their students?

This question is a great way to show the interviewer that you know what it takes to be an effective teacher. When answering this question, make sure to emphasize your teaching skills and how they can help students learn.

Example: “I believe the most important thing a preschool teacher can do for their students is to create an environment that fosters learning and growth. This means providing activities and materials that are engaging and developmentally appropriate, while also creating a safe and supportive classroom atmosphere. By doing this, I am able to help my students develop self-confidence, problem solving skills, and social emotional skills. Furthermore, I strive to build positive relationships with each of my students so they feel comfortable expressing themselves and asking questions. Finally, I make sure to provide meaningful feedback on their work in order to encourage them to continue striving for excellence.”

16. How often do you make sure to praise your students for their accomplishments and progress?

Praising students for their accomplishments and progress is an important part of teaching. Interviewers want to know that you understand the value of praise in motivating your students and helping them feel good about themselves.

Example: “As a Preschool Teacher, I believe that positive reinforcement is essential for helping children learn and grow. Therefore, I make sure to praise my students regularly for their accomplishments and progress. I like to provide individualized feedback to each student so they can feel proud of their achievements. During group activities, I also take the time to recognize everyone’s efforts and celebrate successes together. This helps build a sense of community in the classroom and encourages students to keep striving for excellence.”

17. There is a bug in the classroom and the students are starting to get nervous. How do you handle it?

Bugs are a common occurrence in many classrooms. Interviewers want to know how you would handle this situation and if you have any special techniques for calming the students down.

Example: “When it comes to dealing with bugs in the classroom, I believe that the most important thing is to remain calm and reassure the students. The first step would be to identify the bug so that we can determine the best course of action. Once identified, I would explain to the students what type of bug it is and why it’s not dangerous. I would then take steps to remove the bug from the classroom in a safe and humane way. Finally, I would make sure to clean up any mess left behind by the bug and provide reassurance to the students that they are safe.

My experience as a Preschool Teacher has taught me how to handle unexpected situations like this one in a professional manner while still keeping the children’s safety and wellbeing at the forefront. I am confident that my skills and knowledge will help me effectively manage similar issues in the future.”

18. Describe a time when you had to remain calm and patient in the face of an unexpected situation.

Interviewers may ask this question to assess your ability to remain calm and focused in a stressful situation. They want to know that you can handle unexpected events with grace, even if they are challenging or frustrating. In your answer, try to describe how you used your problem-solving skills to resolve the issue while maintaining your composure.

Example: “I recently had an experience where I had to remain calm and patient in the face of an unexpected situation. I was teaching a group of preschoolers about shapes when one of them started having a meltdown. He was screaming and crying, refusing to listen or participate.

In this situation, I knew that it was important for me to stay calm and not get angry with him. So, I took a few deep breaths and knelt down beside him. I spoke softly and calmly to him, asking him what was wrong and if he wanted to talk about it. After a few minutes, he calmed down and we were able to continue our lesson.

This experience taught me the importance of remaining calm and patient when faced with unexpected situations. It also showed me how important it is to be understanding and empathetic towards children who are feeling overwhelmed. As a Preschool Teacher, I understand the need to remain composed and professional even in difficult moments like these.”

19. What strategies do you use to ensure that your students are staying on task during class?

Interviewers may ask this question to learn more about your teaching methods and how you keep students focused on learning. You can answer this question by describing a specific strategy that you use in the classroom, such as encouraging students to work together or giving them small rewards for good behavior.

Example: “I believe that the key to keeping students on task during class is creating an engaging and stimulating environment. To do this, I use a variety of strategies.

Firstly, I like to create activities that are both fun and educational. This helps keep the students interested in what they’re learning while also teaching them important skills. I also make sure to provide plenty of breaks throughout the day so that the children can have time to relax and refocus.

Additionally, I set clear expectations for my students and ensure that they understand the consequences for not following directions. I also try to be flexible with how I teach, as different students learn in different ways. Finally, I always reward good behavior and encourage positive reinforcement.”

20. How do you make sure that all students feel included and respected while in the classroom?

This question can help interviewers understand how you plan to create a safe and inclusive environment for all students. When answering, it can be helpful to mention specific strategies or techniques that you use to make sure every student feels welcome in the classroom.

Example: “I believe that creating a safe and inclusive learning environment is essential for all students to be successful. To ensure this, I strive to make sure each student feels respected and valued in the classroom. This starts with building relationships with my students and getting to know them on an individual level. I also use positive reinforcement to encourage good behavior and create an atmosphere of mutual respect. Finally, I incorporate activities into the curriculum that allow students to express themselves and their unique perspectives. By doing so, I am able to foster an environment where everyone can feel included and respected.”

21. How do you handle difficult conversations with parents or guardians?

Interviewers may ask this question to assess your ability to handle conflict and maintain positive relationships with parents. In your answer, try to emphasize your communication skills and how you use them to resolve conflicts or disagreements.

Example: “I understand that difficult conversations with parents or guardians can be challenging, but I have the necessary skills to handle them in a professional and respectful manner. When faced with a difficult conversation, I always try to remain calm and open-minded. My goal is to listen carefully to what the parent or guardian has to say and then provide an appropriate response. I also strive to maintain a positive attitude throughout the conversation and focus on finding solutions rather than assigning blame.

In addition, I believe it’s important to keep communication lines open between myself and the parent or guardian. I make sure to follow up after any difficult conversations to ensure that both parties are still on the same page and that any issues have been addressed. Finally, I am not afraid to seek out additional support from colleagues or supervisors if needed.”

22. Do you have experience planning and organizing special events for preschoolers?

Special events are a great way to engage students and help them learn. Employers may ask this question to see if you have experience planning special events for preschoolers, as well as how you handled the event. Use your answer to explain what types of special events you’ve planned in the past and what skills helped you plan these events successfully.

Example: “Yes, I do have experience planning and organizing special events for preschoolers. In my current role as a Preschool Teacher, I have planned several field trips and educational activities that were both fun and engaging for the students. I also organized an end-of-year celebration which included games, crafts, and snacks. The event was well received by parents and students alike.

I am very creative when it comes to planning activities and events, and I always strive to make sure they are age appropriate and enjoyable for all involved. I understand the importance of providing children with meaningful experiences and believe in creating opportunities for them to learn and grow through play.”

23. What would you do if a student was struggling to understand a concept that you were teaching?

Interviewers want to know how you handle challenges and help students overcome them. Your answer should show that you are willing to take the time to help a student learn, even if it takes longer than usual.

Example: “If a student is struggling to understand a concept that I am teaching, the first thing I would do is assess their level of understanding. This could be done through verbal questioning or by having them complete an activity related to the concept.

Once I have assessed the student’s level of understanding, I can then adjust my instruction accordingly. For example, if the student has a basic understanding of the concept but needs more clarification, I may provide additional examples and explanations. If the student does not seem to understand at all, I may need to break down the concept into smaller pieces and explain each piece in detail.

I also believe it is important to involve the student in the process as much as possible. By asking questions and encouraging them to think critically about the concept, they will gain a better understanding. Finally, I would make sure to provide positive reinforcement throughout the learning process so that the student feels supported and motivated to continue learning.”

24. Are there any specific challenges that come with teaching preschool age children?

Interviewers may ask this question to see if you are aware of the challenges that come with teaching preschool age children. They want to make sure you have experience working with young students and can handle any potential difficulties they might encounter in the classroom. In your answer, try to identify a few challenges but also explain how you would overcome them.

Example: “Yes, there are definitely some unique challenges that come with teaching preschool age children. One of the biggest is managing their short attention spans and keeping them engaged in activities. It’s important to have a variety of activities planned throughout the day so that the students don’t get bored or distracted. I also find it helpful to create an environment where the students feel comfortable and safe to express themselves. This helps foster creativity and encourages them to explore new ideas. Finally, I believe it’s essential to build strong relationships with each student and their families. This will help ensure that everyone is on the same page when it comes to expectations and goals for the school year.”

25. Describe your approach to discipline and how it has been successful in the past.

Discipline is an important skill for a preschool teacher to have. It’s also one of the most challenging aspects of teaching young children. A hiring manager may ask this question to learn more about your approach to discipline and how you’ve handled it in the past. When answering, try to be as specific as possible. Explain what methods you use to discipline students and why they work well.

Example: “My approach to discipline is rooted in positive reinforcement and providing children with the tools they need to succeed. I believe that it’s important to create an environment where children feel safe, respected, and supported so that they can learn and grow.

I strive to be consistent with my expectations for behavior and use clear language when communicating rules and boundaries. When a child misbehaves, I take the time to talk through why their behavior was inappropriate and how they can make better choices in the future. I also focus on praising good behavior and rewarding children who follow the rules.

This approach has been successful in my past teaching experiences. I have seen children become more engaged and motivated in their learning as they understand what is expected of them. I have also noticed that by using positive reinforcement, children are less likely to act out or engage in disruptive behaviors.”