Preschoolers will not always be able to follow directions, and having them constantly moving in different directions can become very frustrating for teachers. Preschool teachers must be patient and be prepared for hiccups in the day's plans. There will probably be many days when everything is going wrong and children are cranky, so teachers must also be able to hide their impatience and frustration. Effective preschool teachers are able to act calm and speak evenly at all times. This helps children feel safe and calm.
No one has more energy than a 3-year-old, so a classroom full of them can exhaust even the most well-rested adults. Preschool teachers should start each day with plenty of energy and enthusiasm for the day ahead. An energetic teacher controls a classroom more easily than a quiet, slow-moving teacher since she'll be able to keep up with children and keep their attention. Effective teachers shouldn't be very loud or run around the room, since this may overwhelm children, but they should be able to move around easily and keep up with students.
Preschool teachers should be focused on children all day, but the chaos of a classroom means that keeping things neat can be time-consuming. Teachers should have a system of organization so that they can quickly find art supplies and paperwork without taking time away from the class. Preschool teachers should also have a clear plan for each day's activities. This means that teachers should always have copies of worksheets, art projects and books ready for the day. Preschoolers may need help transitioning between activities, so teachers should be helping them rather than looking for materials for the next lesson.
Although they're working in an official school environment, preschool teachers must also be comforting and loving. Preschoolers are often away from their parents and dealing with other children for the first time. Some preschoolers may cry or throw tantrums every day and teachers must be able to help children deal with these feelings. Rather than ignoring or yelling at emotional children, teachers must be comforting and empathetic. Depending on the situation, teachers should give hugs, talk with children or help distract them with other activities.