Preschool Teacher Interview Questions and Answers
Use this list of Preschool Teacher interview questions and answers to gain better insight into your candidates, and make better hiring decisions.
Preschool Teacher overview
When interviewing for a Preschool Teacher position, it's important to assess the candidate's ability to engage with young children, their creativity, patience, and understanding of early childhood development. Look for a playful and nurturing attitude, as well as strong communication skills.
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Sample Interview Questions
🎨 How do you incorporate creativity and play into your teaching? 🧩
To understand the candidate's approach to making learning fun and engaging.
Sample answer
I love using arts and crafts, storytelling, and interactive games to make lessons exciting and memorable for the kids.
📚 Can you share a favorite storybook you like to read to your class? Why? 📖
To gauge the candidate's enthusiasm for reading and storytelling.
Sample answer
One of my favorites is 'The Very Hungry Caterpillar' because it’s colorful, interactive, and teaches counting and days of the week.
🎵 How do you use music and songs in your classroom? 🎤
To see how the candidate uses music to enhance learning and create a joyful environment.
Sample answer
I use songs for transitions, to teach concepts like the alphabet, and to make clean-up time fun and engaging.
🧸 How do you handle a child who is upset or having a tantrum? 😢
To assess the candidate's ability to manage challenging behaviors with empathy.
Sample answer
I stay calm, get down to their level, and use a soothing voice to help them express their feelings and find a solution together.
🌟 What is your favorite classroom activity and why? 🏫
To learn about the candidate's preferred teaching methods and activities.
Sample answer
I love circle time because it brings everyone together, encourages sharing, and sets a positive tone for the day.
🖍️ How do you encourage children to express themselves creatively? 🎨
To understand how the candidate fosters creativity and self-expression.
Sample answer
I provide a variety of materials and let the children choose their projects, encouraging them to explore and experiment.
🌈 How do you celebrate diversity and inclusion in your classroom? 🌍
To see how the candidate promotes an inclusive and respectful environment.
Sample answer
I include books, activities, and discussions that reflect different cultures and backgrounds, and celebrate each child's uniqueness.
🕵️♂️ How do you keep parents informed about their child's progress and classroom activities? 📬
To assess the candidate's communication skills with parents.
Sample answer
I send regular newsletters, hold parent-teacher conferences, and use a classroom app to share updates and photos.
🧩 How do you handle conflicts between children in your classroom? 🤝
To understand the candidate's conflict resolution skills.
Sample answer
I guide the children to talk about their feelings, listen to each other, and find a fair solution together.
🌟 What inspired you to become a preschool teacher? 🏫
To learn about the candidate's passion and motivation for teaching young children.
Sample answer
I've always loved working with children and seeing their eyes light up when they learn something new is incredibly rewarding.
Red Flags
Look out for these red flags when interviewing candidates for this role:
- Lack of enthusiasm or passion for working with young children.
- Inability to provide specific examples of past experiences.
- Negative or punitive approach to behavior management.
- Poor communication skills with children and parents.
- Lack of creativity or unwillingness to engage in playful activities.
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