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How a preschool teacher can use AI, task by task

O*NET 25-2011.00: Preschool Teachers, Except Special EducationMedian pay $38,140/year (BLS, May 2025)34 tasksJob Zone 3: Medium preparation

Instruct preschool-aged students, following curricula or lesson plans, in activities designed to promote social, physical, and intellectual growth.

Type your own title and every prompt on this page updates to match. Also called: Child Development Teacher, Early Childhood Teacher, Group Teacher, Infant Teacher, Montessori Preschool Teacher, Nursery Teacher, Pre-Kindergarten Teacher (Pre-K Teacher), Teacher, Toddler Teacher.

Where AI fits in this job

AI-ready 8%AI-assist 44%Stays human 48%

Share of the job's tasks, weighted by how important and how frequent each task is (O*NET ratings). 3 AI-ready, 15 AI-assist and 16 human-led tasks out of 34. This measures where AI can help, not whether the job will disappear.

Information & paperwork
Thinking & planning
People & communication
Leading & teaching
Hands-on & physical

Shape of the job: importance of each kind of work activity (O*NET, 1 to 5).

🗓 Start here on Monday

The most frequent, most important tasks where AI can help right away.

  1. Teach basic skills, such as color, shape, number and letter recognition, personal hygiene, and social skills.Train & teach · Several times a day
  2. Establish and enforce rules for behavior and procedures for maintaining order.Write it up · Several times a day
  3. Demonstrate activities to children.Train & teach · Several times a day

🔒 Many of these tasks involve people's information. Remove names and identifying details before using AI, or use only a tool your employer has approved.

AI can draft these 3

AI produces a usable first pass. You review it, fix it and own it.

Establish clear objectives for all lessons, units, and projects and communicate those objectives to children.

Daily

AI drafts lesson plans, quizzes and practice scenarios.

Show prompt & steps

AI can draft lesson plans, training outlines, quizzes and practice scenarios in minutes. You shape them around your learners and your standards.

Ready-to-use prompt

I work as a preschool teacher. Part of my job is to establish clear objectives for all lessons, units, and projects and communicate those objectives to children.

Context: We use Children's educational software and Schoology; the work draws on education and training, psychology and public safety and security.
Course or unit: [subject, level]
What learners should be able to do: [rough goals]

Write measurable learning objectives using clear verbs, and an assessment idea for each. Include timings, a realistic practice scenario from my work, and a short check for understanding with answers.

10-minute exercise: Write learning objectives

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you establish clear objectives (today).
Step 2Fill in [Course or unit] and your rough goals in [What learners should be able to do].
Step 3Share them with learners at the start of the unit.

Check that every procedure in the material matches your workplace's actual standards.

Importance 4.3/5 · core task · O*NET work activity: Develop instructional objectives..

Maintain accurate and complete student records as required by laws, district policies, and administrative regulations.

Daily

AI writes the first draft from your notes; you check every fact.

Show prompt & steps

Give AI your rough notes, numbers or last version and it will turn them into a clean, well-structured first draft. You check every fact and figure before it goes anywhere.

Ready-to-use prompt

I work as a preschool teacher. Part of my job is to maintain accurate and complete student records as required by laws, district policies, and administrative regulations.

Context: We use Microsoft Word.
Records: [grades, attendance, reports]
Rules: [privacy]

Draft templates or entries without names. Use plain language and headings where they help, and mark anything you had to guess with [CHECK].

10-minute exercise: Student records

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you maintain accurate (today). Leave out names and identifying details.
Step 2Fill in [Records] and [Rules] with the real details, then run the prompt.
Step 3Check every fact, name and number against your source before it goes anywhere. Confirm the rules against the current official source.

AI will happily make up numbers, names and dates. Every fact in the draft needs checking against your source.

Rules and regulations vary by place and change often. Confirm against the official source before relying on anything.

Importance 4.4/5 · core task · O*NET work activity: Maintain student records..

Prepare reports on students and activities as required by administration.

Monthly

AI writes the first draft from your notes; you check every fact.

Show prompt & steps

Give AI your rough notes, numbers or last version and it will turn them into a clean, well-structured first draft. You check every fact and figure before it goes anywhere.

Ready-to-use prompt

I work as a preschool teacher. Part of my job is to prepare reports on students and activities as required by administration.

Context: We use Microsoft Word.
Report: [required report type]
Data: [paste, anonymized]

Draft the report. Use plain language and headings where they help, and mark anything you had to guess with [CHECK].

10-minute exercise: Student or instruction report

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you prepare reports on students and activities. Leave out names and identifying details.
Step 2Fill in [Report] and [Data] with the real details, then run the prompt.
Step 3Check every fact, name and number against your source before it goes anywhere.

AI will happily make up numbers, names and dates. Every fact in the draft needs checking against your source.

Importance 3.9/5 · core task · O*NET work activity: Prepare reports detailing student activities or performance..

AI can help you prep these 15

AI speeds up the prep, drafting or thinking. The core of the task is still yours.

Teach basic skills, such as color, shape, number and letter recognition, personal hygiene, and social skills.

Several times a day

AI preps the materials; reading the room is you.

Show prompt & steps

AI preps the materials: lesson outlines, quizzes, examples, practice scenarios. Reading the room and coaching people is still you.

Ready-to-use prompt

I work as a preschool teacher. Part of my job is to teach basic skills, such as color, shape, number and letter recognition, personal hygiene, and social skills.

Context: We use Schoology and Children's educational software; the work draws on education and training, psychology and public safety and security.
Skill: [hygiene, healthy eating, recognition skills]
Learners: [age group]

Plan a playful lesson with routines and songs or games. Include timings, a realistic practice scenario from my work, and a short check for understanding with answers.

10-minute exercise: Life skills lesson

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you teach basic skills.
Step 2Fill in [Skill] and [Learners] with the real details, then run the prompt.
Step 3Swap one AI example for a real story from your own work. Real stories are what people remember.

Check that every procedure in the material matches your workplace's actual standards.

Importance 4.6/5 · core task · O*NET work activity: Teach life skills..

Establish and enforce rules for behavior and procedures for maintaining order.

Several times a day

AI drafts the structure and wording; the specifics and sign-off are yours.

Show prompt & steps

AI can draft the structure and standard wording. The specifics, the judgment calls and the sign-off are yours.

Ready-to-use prompt

I work as a preschool teacher. Part of my job is to establish and enforce rules for behavior and procedures for maintaining order.

Context: We use Microsoft Word.
Class: [age group or lab setting]
Concerns: [safety, behaviour, routines]

Draft clear, positive rules with reasons, consequences, and a way to teach them in the first week.

10-minute exercise: Classroom rules

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you establish and enforce rules.
Step 2Fill in [Class] and [Concerns] with the real details, then run the prompt.
Step 3Teach them and review after two weeks.

AI will happily make up numbers, names and dates. Every fact in the draft needs checking against your source.

Importance 4.6/5 · core task · O*NET work activity: Establish rules or policies governing student behavior..

Demonstrate activities to children.

Several times a day

AI preps the materials; reading the room is you.

Show prompt & steps

AI preps the materials: lesson outlines, quizzes, examples, practice scenarios. Reading the room and coaching people is still you.

Ready-to-use prompt

I work as a preschool teacher. Part of my job is to demonstrate activities to children.

Context: We use Children's educational software and Schoology; the work draws on education and training, psychology and public safety and security.
Topic: [describe]
Learners: [describe]

Plan a lesson mixing lecture, demonstration, practice and discussion. Include timings, a realistic practice scenario from my work, and a short check for understanding with answers.

10-minute exercise: Mix of teaching methods

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you demonstrate activities to children.
Step 2Fill in [Topic] and [Learners] with the real details, then run the prompt.
Step 3Swap one AI example for a real story from your own work. Real stories are what people remember.

Check that every procedure in the material matches your workplace's actual standards.

Importance 4.3/5 · core task · O*NET work activity: Apply multiple teaching methods..

Adapt teaching methods and instructional materials to meet students' varying needs and interests.

Daily

AI preps the materials; reading the room is you.

Show prompt & steps

AI preps the materials: lesson outlines, quizzes, examples, practice scenarios. Reading the room and coaching people is still you.

Ready-to-use prompt

I work as a preschool teacher. Part of my job is to adapt teaching methods and instructional materials to meet students' varying needs and interests.

Context: We use Schoology and Children's educational software; the work draws on education and training, psychology and public safety and security.
Lesson: [topic]
Learner needs: [general description, no names]

Suggest adaptations: different entry points, supports, extensions and checks for understanding. Include timings, a realistic practice scenario from my work, and a short check for understanding with answers.

10-minute exercise: Adapt the lesson

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you adapt teaching methods and instructional materials (today). Leave out names and identifying details.
Step 2Fill in [Lesson] and [Learner needs] with the real details, then run the prompt.
Step 3Try one adaptation and note how learners respond.

Check that every procedure in the material matches your workplace's actual standards.

Importance 4.6/5 · core task · O*NET work activity: Modify teaching methods or materials to accommodate student needs..

Organize and lead activities designed to promote physical, mental, and social development, such as games, arts and crafts, music, storytelling, and field trips.

Daily

AI preps the materials; reading the room is you.

📊 Real AI use (Anthropic Economic Index, Apr 2026 to May 2026): AI completed the task directly in 42% of those conversations; the rest were back-and-forth with the person.

Show prompt & steps

AI preps the materials: lesson outlines, quizzes, examples, practice scenarios. Reading the room and coaching people is still you.

Ready-to-use prompt

I work as a preschool teacher. Part of my job is to organize and lead activities designed to promote physical, mental, and social development, such as games, arts and crafts, music, storytelling, and field trips.

Context: We use Children's educational software and Schoology; the work draws on education and training, psychology and public safety and security.
Learners: [age, level]
Topic and time: [subject, sessions]

Plan activities with objectives, materials, timing and differentiation. Include timings, a realistic practice scenario from my work, and a short check for understanding with answers.

10-minute exercise: Plan a unit or activity

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you organize and lead activities to promote physical (today).
Step 2Fill in [Learners] and [Topic and time] with the real details, then run the prompt.
Step 3Teach one activity and note what worked.

Check that every procedure in the material matches your workplace's actual standards.

Importance 4.5/5 · core task · O*NET work activity: Plan educational activities..

Teach proper eating habits and personal hygiene.

Daily

AI preps the materials; reading the room is you.

Show prompt & steps

AI preps the materials: lesson outlines, quizzes, examples, practice scenarios. Reading the room and coaching people is still you.

Ready-to-use prompt

I work as a preschool teacher. Part of my job is to teach proper eating habits and personal hygiene.

Context: We use Schoology and Children's educational software; the work draws on education and training, psychology and public safety and security.
Skill: [hygiene, healthy eating, recognition skills]
Learners: [age group]

Plan a playful lesson with routines and songs or games. Include timings, a realistic practice scenario from my work, and a short check for understanding with answers.

10-minute exercise: Life skills lesson

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you teach proper eating habits and personal hygiene (today).
Step 2Fill in [Skill] and [Learners] with the real details, then run the prompt.
Step 3Swap one AI example for a real story from your own work. Real stories are what people remember.

Check that every procedure in the material matches your workplace's actual standards.

Importance 4.3/5 · core task · O*NET work activity: Teach life skills..

Plan and conduct activities for a balanced program of instruction, demonstration, and work time that provides students with opportunities to observe, question, and investigate.

Daily

AI preps the materials; reading the room is you.

📊 Real AI use (Anthropic Economic Index, Apr 2026 to May 2026): AI completed the task directly in 40% of those conversations; the rest were back-and-forth with the person.

Show prompt & steps

AI preps the materials: lesson outlines, quizzes, examples, practice scenarios. Reading the room and coaching people is still you.

Ready-to-use prompt

I work as a preschool teacher. Part of my job is to plan and conduct activities for a balanced program of instruction, demonstration, and work time that provides students with opportunities to observe, question, and investigate.

Context: We use Children's educational software and Schoology; the work draws on education and training, psychology and public safety and security.
Learners: [age, level]
Topic and time: [subject, sessions]

Plan activities with objectives, materials, timing and differentiation. Include timings, a realistic practice scenario from my work, and a short check for understanding with answers.

10-minute exercise: Plan a unit or activity

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you plan and conduct activities for a balanced program of instruction (today). Leave out names and identifying details.
Step 2Fill in [Learners] and [Topic and time] with the real details, then run the prompt.
Step 3Teach one activity and note what worked.

Check that every procedure in the material matches your workplace's actual standards.

Importance 4.2/5 · core task · O*NET work activity: Plan educational activities..

Plan and supervise class projects, field trips, visits by guests, or other experiential activities and guide students in learning from those activities.

Weekly

AI preps the materials; reading the room is you.

Show prompt & steps

AI preps the materials: lesson outlines, quizzes, examples, practice scenarios. Reading the room and coaching people is still you.

Ready-to-use prompt

I work as a preschool teacher. Part of my job is to plan and supervise class projects, field trips, visits by guests, or other experiential activities and guide students in learning from those activities.

Context: We use Schoology and Children's educational software; the work draws on education and training, psychology and public safety and security.
Course: [subject]
Options: [sites, labs, community partners]

Plan the experience: learning goals, logistics, safety, pre-work and a reflection task. Include timings, a realistic practice scenario from my work, and a short check for understanding with answers.

10-minute exercise: Plan a field trip or hands-on experience

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you plan and supervise class projects, field trips and visits (this week). Leave out names and identifying details.
Step 2Fill in [Course] and [Options] with the real details, then run the prompt.
Step 3Swap one AI example for a real story from your own work. Real stories are what people remember.

Check that every procedure in the material matches your workplace's actual standards.

Importance 3.9/5 · core task · O*NET work activity: Plan experiential learning activities..

Confer with other staff members to plan and schedule lessons promoting learning, following approved curricula.

Weekly

AI preps the materials; reading the room is you.

Show prompt & steps

AI preps the materials: lesson outlines, quizzes, examples, practice scenarios. Reading the room and coaching people is still you.

Ready-to-use prompt

I work as a preschool teacher. Part of my job is to confer with other staff members to plan and schedule lessons promoting learning, following approved curricula.

Context: We use Children's educational software and Schoology; the work draws on education and training, psychology and public safety and security.
Topic: [unit, schedule]
Colleagues: [teachers, staff]

Draft a co-planning agenda and lesson outline. Include timings, a realistic practice scenario from my work, and a short check for understanding with answers.

10-minute exercise: Co-plan lessons

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you confer with other staff members to plan and schedule (this week). Leave out names and identifying details.
Step 2Fill in [Topic] and [Colleagues] with the real details, then run the prompt.
Step 3Swap one AI example for a real story from your own work. Real stories are what people remember.

Check that every procedure in the material matches your workplace's actual standards.

Importance 4.0/5 · core task · O*NET work activity: Collaborate with other teaching professionals to develop educational programs..

Select, store, order, issue, and inventory classroom equipment, materials, and supplies.

Weekly

AI preps the paperwork; approving and paying stay with you.

Show prompt & steps

AI can prep the paperwork, extract details from documents and make checklists. Approving, paying and verifying stay with you.

Ready-to-use prompt

I work as a preschool teacher. Part of my job is to select, store, order, issue, and inventory classroom equipment, materials, and supplies.

Context: We use Microsoft Excel.
Materials: [parts, supplies]
Data: [paste counts]

Organize inventory with reorder flags. Point out anything missing or inconsistent and suggest a template I can reuse.

10-minute exercise: Materials inventory

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you select, store, order, issue, and inventory classroom equipment, materials and supplies (this week).
Step 2Fill in [Materials] and [Data] with the real details, then run the prompt.
Step 3Save the template and use it on the next one. Time both.

Personal, financial and health data shouldn't go into AI tools unless your employer has approved one for it.

Importance 3.8/5 · core task · O*NET work activity: Maintain inventories of materials, equipment, or products.. Also involves: Distribute instructional or library materials.; Order instructional or library materials or equipment..

Meet with other professionals to discuss individual students' needs and progress.

Monthly

AI drafts clear messages and talking points.

Show prompt & steps

AI can draft updates, emails and talking points so your message is clear and complete. Relationships and real-time calls are yours.

Ready-to-use prompt

I work as a preschool teacher. Part of my job is to meet with other professionals to discuss individual students' needs and progress.

Context: We use Google Meet.
Issue: [describe without names]
What I need: [decision, help, awareness]

Draft a short message or talking points: the facts, the impact, and my suggested next step.

10-minute exercise: Raise an issue with a supervisor

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you meet with other professionals to discuss individual students' needs. Leave out names and identifying details.
Step 2Fill in [Issue] and [What I need] with the real details, then run the prompt.
Step 3Stick to facts and bring a suggested solution.

Never let AI send messages for you. Read every word, because tone mistakes cost trust.

Importance 3.8/5 · core task · O*NET work activity: Discuss problems or issues with supervisors..

Prepare and implement remedial programs for students requiring extra help.

Weekly

AI preps the materials; reading the room is you.

Show prompt & steps

AI preps the materials: lesson outlines, quizzes, examples, practice scenarios. Reading the room and coaching people is still you.

Ready-to-use prompt

I work as a preschool teacher. Part of my job is to prepare and implement remedial programs for students requiring extra help.

Context: We use Schoology and Children's educational software; the work draws on education and training, psychology and public safety and security.
Learner needs: [general description, no names]
Goals: [skills to build]

Suggest accommodations, targeted activities and progress checks. Include timings, a realistic practice scenario from my work, and a short check for understanding with answers.

10-minute exercise: Support plan for a learner

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you prepare and implement remedial programs for students requiring extra help (this week). Leave out names and identifying details.
Step 2Fill in [Learner needs] and [Goals] with the real details, then run the prompt.
Step 3Align with the student's IEP or support plan.

Check that every procedure in the material matches your workplace's actual standards.

Importance 4.1/5 · core task · O*NET work activity: Develop strategies or programs for students with special needs..

Collaborate with other teachers and administrators in the development, evaluation, and revision of preschool programs.

Monthly

AI preps the materials; reading the room is you.

Show prompt & steps

AI preps the materials: lesson outlines, quizzes, examples, practice scenarios. Reading the room and coaching people is still you.

Ready-to-use prompt

I work as a preschool teacher. Part of my job is to collaborate with other teachers and administrators in the development, evaluation, and revision of preschool programs.

Context: We use Children's educational software and Schoology; the work draws on education and training, psychology and public safety and security.
Topic: [unit, schedule]
Colleagues: [teachers, staff]

Draft a co-planning agenda and lesson outline. Include timings, a realistic practice scenario from my work, and a short check for understanding with answers.

10-minute exercise: Co-plan lessons

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you collaborate with other teachers and administrators in the development.
Step 2Fill in [Topic] and [Colleagues] with the real details, then run the prompt.
Step 3Swap one AI example for a real story from your own work. Real stories are what people remember.

Check that every procedure in the material matches your workplace's actual standards.

Importance 3.9/5 · core task · O*NET work activity: Collaborate with other teaching professionals to develop educational programs..

Attend professional meetings, educational conferences, and teacher training workshops to maintain and improve professional competence.

A few times a year

AI explains and quizzes you; confirm against official sources.

Show prompt & steps

AI can explain new developments and quiz you. Confirm what you learn against official sources.

Ready-to-use prompt

I work as a preschool teacher. Part of my job is to attend professional meetings, educational conferences, and teacher training workshops to maintain and improve professional competence.

Context: The work draws on education and training, psychology and public safety and security.
Event: [training, conference, professional meeting]
What I want from it: [skills, contacts, answers]

Prepare a primer on the main topics, 5 questions to ask, and a one-page template for notes and actions.

10-minute exercise: Make a meeting or training count

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you attend professional meetings, educational conferences and teacher training workshops.
Step 2Fill in [Event] and [What I want from it] with the real details, then run the prompt.
Step 3Turn one action into something you do the following week.

AI's knowledge has a cutoff date. For new regulations and standards, always confirm against the official source.

Importance 4.0/5 · core task · O*NET work activity: Attend training sessions or professional meetings to develop or maintain professional knowledge..

Administer tests to help determine children's developmental levels, needs, and potential.

Monthly

AI preps the materials; reading the room is you.

Show prompt & steps

AI preps the materials: lesson outlines, quizzes, examples, practice scenarios. Reading the room and coaching people is still you.

Ready-to-use prompt

I work as a preschool teacher. Part of my job is to administer tests to help determine children's developmental levels, needs, and potential.

Context: We use Children's educational software and Schoology; the work draws on education and training, psychology and public safety and security.
Course and unit: [subject, level]
Outcomes to test: [what learners should know or do]

Draft a short assessment: mixed question types, an answer key, a marking rubric, and how results map to outcomes.

10-minute exercise: Assessment design

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you administer tests.
Step 2Fill in [Course and unit] and [Outcomes to test] with the real details, then run the prompt.
Step 3Check every answer in the key and cut any question you wouldn't ask.

Check that every procedure in the material matches your workplace's actual standards.

Importance 3.7/5 · core task · O*NET work activity: Administer tests to assess educational needs or progress..

These stay human 16

They need your hands, your presence or your accountable judgment. Lean into them: they get more valuable as routine work is automated.

📏 Measured in this job (O*NET work context): Contact with others: constant contact with others · Face-to-face discussions: once a week or more but not every day · Physical closeness to others: moderately close (at arm's length) · Standing: more than half the time

Assimilate arriving children to the school environment by greeting them, helping them remove outerwear, and selecting activities of interest to them.

Several times a day

Hands-on care. AI only helps with prep, explanations and paperwork.

Show prep prompt & steps

Where AI still helps: AI can help around the care: plain-language explanations for patients, study and revision, checklists and paperwork drafts. Use only tools your employer has approved for health information.

Prep prompt

I work as a preschool teacher. Part of my job is to assimilate arriving children to the school environment by greeting them, helping them remove outerwear, and selecting activities of interest to them.

Context: The work draws on education and training, psychology and public safety and security.
Ages: [describe]
Needs: [arrival, meals, comfort]

List routine steps. Keep it free of any patient details, add plain-language wording I can use with people, and list the warning signs that mean I should escalate.

10-minute exercise: Children's basic needs routine

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you assimilate arriving children.
Step 2Fill in [Ages] and [Needs] with the real details, then run the prompt.
Step 3Compare it line by line with your protocol. Your protocol always wins.

Importance 4.4/5 · core task · O*NET work activity: Provide for basic needs of children..

Provide a variety of materials and resources for children to explore, manipulate, and use, both in learning activities and in imaginative play.

Daily

Physical, in-person work. AI helps with checklists and write-ups.

Show prep prompt & steps

Where AI still helps: AI helps around the job: decoding manuals and instructions, pre-job checklists, calculations and writing up what you did afterward.

Prep prompt

I work as a preschool teacher. Part of my job is to provide a variety of materials and resources for children to explore, manipulate, and use, both in learning activities and in imaginative play.

Context: The work draws on education and training, psychology and public safety and security.
Activity: [lesson, centres]
Learners: [age, number]

List materials, room layout and set-up order. Include the tools, materials and safety steps, the measurements or settings to double-check, and a 3-line template for logging the job. Flag anything to confirm in the manufacturer's manual.

10-minute exercise: Classroom set-up

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you provide a variety of materials and resources (today).
Step 2Fill in [Activity] and [Learners] with the real details, then run the prompt.
Step 3Check the room is safe and accessible before learners arrive.

Importance 4.6/5 · core task · O*NET work activity: Set up classroom materials or equipment..

Read books to entire classes or to small groups.

Daily

Human connection. Use AI only before and after, to prepare.

Show prep prompt & steps

Where AI still helps: Use AI before and after, not during. Prepare talking points, practise a hard conversation, or turn your notes into a follow-up.

Prep prompt

I work as a preschool teacher. Part of my job is to read books to entire classes or to small groups.

Context: The work draws on education and training, psychology and public safety and security.
Book: [title, age group]
Goals: [vocabulary, discussion]

Prepare voices, pause points and questions. Then play a curious child. Suggest ways to open, phrases to avoid, and how to handle it if things get tense. Then play the other person so I can practice.

10-minute exercise: Read-aloud prep

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you read books (today).
Step 2Fill in [Book] and [Goals] with the real details, then run the prompt.
Step 3After the real conversation, write down what worked so you can reuse it.

Importance 4.4/5 · core task · O*NET work activity: Read to students..

Prepare materials and classrooms for class activities.

Daily

Physical, in-person work. AI helps with checklists and write-ups.

Show prep prompt & steps

Where AI still helps: AI helps around the job: decoding manuals and instructions, pre-job checklists, calculations and writing up what you did afterward.

Prep prompt

I work as a preschool teacher. Part of my job is to prepare materials and classrooms for class activities.

Context: The work draws on education and training, psychology and public safety and security.
Activity: [lesson, centres]
Learners: [age, number]

List materials, room layout and set-up order. Include the tools, materials and safety steps, the measurements or settings to double-check, and a 3-line template for logging the job. Flag anything to confirm in the manufacturer's manual.

10-minute exercise: Classroom set-up

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you prepare materials and classrooms (today).
Step 2Fill in [Activity] and [Learners] with the real details, then run the prompt.
Step 3Check the room is safe and accessible before learners arrive.

Importance 4.4/5 · core task · O*NET work activity: Set up classroom materials or equipment..

Serve meals and snacks in accordance with nutritional guidelines.

Daily

Hands-on care. AI only helps with prep, explanations and paperwork.

Show prep prompt & steps

Where AI still helps: AI can help around the care: plain-language explanations for patients, study and revision, checklists and paperwork drafts. Use only tools your employer has approved for health information.

Prep prompt

I work as a preschool teacher. Part of my job is to serve meals and snacks in accordance with nutritional guidelines.

Context: The work draws on education and training, psychology and public safety and security.
Ages: [describe]
Needs: [arrival, meals, comfort]

List routine steps. Keep it free of any patient details, add plain-language wording I can use with people, and list the warning signs that mean I should escalate.

10-minute exercise: Children's basic needs routine

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you serve meals and snacks (today).
Step 2Fill in [Ages] and [Needs] with the real details, then run the prompt.
Step 3Compare it line by line with your protocol. Your protocol always wins.

Importance 4.5/5 · core task · O*NET work activity: Provide for basic needs of children..

Enforce all administration policies and rules governing students.

Daily

Leading people runs on trust. AI can prep the paperwork around it.

Show prep prompt & steps

Where AI still helps: AI can prep the paperwork around leading: meeting agendas, feedback drafts, rotas, briefings and difficult-conversation rehearsals.

Prep prompt

I work as a preschool teacher. Part of my job is to enforce all administration policies and rules governing students.

Context: The work draws on education and training, psychology and public safety and security.
Rule or situation: [behaviour issue, no names]
Policy: [school rule]

Give me calm wording to address it, steps if it continues, and how to stay consistent.

10-minute exercise: Consistent rule enforcement

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you enforce all administration policies and rules governing students (today). Leave out names and identifying details.
Step 2Fill in [Rule or situation] and [Policy] with the real details, then run the prompt.
Step 3Use it next time and reflect on how it went.

Importance 4.2/5 · core task · O*NET work activity: Enforce rules or policies governing student behavior..

Observe and evaluate children's performance, behavior, social development, and physical health.

Daily

Leading people runs on trust. AI can prep the paperwork around it.

Show prep prompt & steps

Where AI still helps: AI can prep the paperwork around leading: meeting agendas, feedback drafts, rotas, briefings and difficult-conversation rehearsals.

Prep prompt

I work as a preschool teacher. Part of my job is to observe and evaluate children's performance, behavior, social development, and physical health.

Context: The work draws on education and training, psychology and public safety and security.
Age group: [describe]
Areas: [social, physical, behaviour, health]

Make an observation checklist with age-appropriate milestones and notes for parent conversations. Give me the key message in 2 sentences, how people might react, and how to respond to each.

10-minute exercise: Child development observation

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you observe and evaluate children's performance, behavior and social development (today).
Step 2Fill in [Age group] and [Areas] with the real details, then run the prompt.
Step 3Use it for one week of observations.

Importance 4.4/5 · core task · O*NET work activity: Monitor student behavior, social development, or health.. Also involves: Monitor student performance.; Evaluate student work..

Arrange indoor and outdoor space to facilitate creative play, motor-skill activities, and safety.

Daily

Physical, in-person work. AI helps with checklists and write-ups.

Show prep prompt & steps

Where AI still helps: AI helps around the job: decoding manuals and instructions, pre-job checklists, calculations and writing up what you did afterward.

Prep prompt

I work as a preschool teacher. Part of my job is to arrange indoor and outdoor space to facilitate creative play, motor-skill activities, and safety.

Context: The work draws on education and training, psychology and public safety and security.
Space: [indoor, outdoor]
Ages: [describe]

List layout and safety checks. Include the tools, materials and safety steps, the measurements or settings to double-check, and a 3-line template for logging the job. Flag anything to confirm in the manufacturer's manual.

10-minute exercise: Safe space layout

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you arrange indoor and outdoor space (today).
Step 2Fill in [Space] and [Ages] with the real details, then run the prompt.
Step 3Check it against the manufacturer's manual and your site rules, and add the steps only experience teaches.

Safety-critical: AI output is a starting point. Follow your site's procedures and the manufacturer's guidance.

Importance 4.3/5 · core task · O*NET work activity: Arrange childcare or educational settings to ensure physical safety of children.. Also involves: Set up classroom materials or equipment..

Organize and label materials and display students' work in a manner appropriate for their ages and perceptual skills.

Daily

Physical, in-person work. AI helps with checklists and write-ups.

Show prep prompt & steps

Where AI still helps: AI helps around the job: decoding manuals and instructions, pre-job checklists, calculations and writing up what you did afterward.

Prep prompt

I work as a preschool teacher. Part of my job is to organize and label materials and display students' work in a manner appropriate for their ages and perceptual skills.

Context: The work draws on education and training, psychology and public safety and security.
Work: [art, projects]
Space: [walls, gallery]

Plan layout and labels. Include the tools, materials and safety steps, the measurements or settings to double-check, and a 3-line template for logging the job. Flag anything to confirm in the manufacturer's manual.

10-minute exercise: Student work display

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you organize and label materials (today). Leave out names and identifying details.
Step 2Fill in [Work] and [Space] with the real details, then run the prompt.
Step 3Check consent for displaying names or images.

Importance 4.0/5 · core task · O*NET work activity: Display student work..

Attend to children's basic needs by feeding them, dressing them, and changing their diapers.

Several times a day

Hands-on care. AI only helps with prep, explanations and paperwork.

Show prep prompt & steps

Where AI still helps: AI can help around the care: plain-language explanations for patients, study and revision, checklists and paperwork drafts. Use only tools your employer has approved for health information.

Prep prompt

I work as a preschool teacher. Part of my job is to attend to children's basic needs by feeding them, dressing them, and changing their diapers.

Context: The work draws on education and training, psychology and public safety and security.
Ages: [describe]
Needs: [arrival, meals, comfort]

List routine steps. Keep it free of any patient details, add plain-language wording I can use with people, and list the warning signs that mean I should escalate.

10-minute exercise: Children's basic needs routine

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you attend to children's basic needs.
Step 2Fill in [Ages] and [Needs] with the real details, then run the prompt.
Step 3Compare it line by line with your protocol. Your protocol always wins.

Importance 4.5/5 · core task · O*NET work activity: Provide for basic needs of children..

Identify children showing signs of emotional, developmental, or health-related problems and discuss them with supervisors, parents or guardians, and child development specialists.

Weekly

Human connection. Use AI only before and after, to prepare.

Show prep prompt & steps

Where AI still helps: Use AI before and after, not during. Prepare talking points, practise a hard conversation, or turn your notes into a follow-up.

Prep prompt

I work as a preschool teacher. Part of my job is to identify children showing signs of emotional, developmental, or health-related problems and discuss them with supervisors, parents or guardians, and child development specialists.

Context: The work draws on education and training, psychology and public safety and security.
Student progress: [strengths, concerns; no names]
Goals: [what you want to agree]

Prepare an agenda, examples, questions and a shared plan. Then play the parent. Suggest ways to open, phrases to avoid, and how to handle it if things get tense. Then play the other person so I can practice.

10-minute exercise: Parent-teacher conference

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you identify children showing signs of emotional, developmental (this week). Leave out names and identifying details.
Step 2Fill in [Student progress] and [Goals] with the real details, then run the prompt.
Step 3Send a short summary of agreed actions afterward.

Importance 4.4/5 · core task · O*NET work activity: Discuss student progress with parents or guardians.. Also involves: Monitor student behavior, social development, or health.; Discuss problems or issues with supervisors..

Meet with parents and guardians to discuss their children's progress and needs, determine their priorities for their children, and suggest ways that they can promote learning and development.

Monthly

Human connection. Use AI only before and after, to prepare.

Show prep prompt & steps

Where AI still helps: Use AI before and after, not during. Prepare talking points, practise a hard conversation, or turn your notes into a follow-up.

Prep prompt

I work as a preschool teacher. Part of my job is to meet with parents and guardians to discuss their children's progress and needs, determine their priorities for their children, and suggest ways that they can promote learning and development.

Context: The work draws on education and training, psychology and public safety and security.
Student progress: [strengths, concerns; no names]
Goals: [what you want to agree]

Prepare an agenda, examples, questions and a shared plan. Then play the parent. Suggest ways to open, phrases to avoid, and how to handle it if things get tense. Then play the other person so I can practice.

10-minute exercise: Parent-teacher conference

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you meet with parents and guardians.
Step 2Fill in [Student progress] and [Goals] with the real details, then run the prompt.
Step 3Send a short summary of agreed actions afterward.

Importance 4.5/5 · core task · O*NET work activity: Discuss student progress with parents or guardians..

Supervise, evaluate, and plan assignments for teacher assistants and volunteers.

Weekly

Your accountable call. Use AI as a sounding board beforehand.

Show prep prompt & steps

Where AI still helps: Use AI as a sounding board before you decide. Ask it to argue the other side, list what you might be overlooking, or organize the evidence.

Prep prompt

I work as a preschool teacher. Part of my job is to supervise, evaluate, and plan assignments for teacher assistants and volunteers.

Context: The work draws on education and training, psychology and public safety and security.
Evidence: [observations, student evaluations, research, service, no names]
Criteria: [your institution's standards]

Organize the evidence against each criterion, note strengths and growth areas, and suggest discussion questions. I make the judgment.

10-minute exercise: Prepare a faculty evaluation

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you supervise, evaluate, and plan assignments (this week).
Step 2Fill in [Evidence] and [Criteria] with the real details, then run the prompt.
Step 3Write the judgment yourself and use the questions in the meeting.

Importance 3.8/5 · core task · O*NET work activity: Evaluate performance of educational staff.. Also involves: Supervise student research or internship work..

Attend staff meetings and serve on committees as required.

Monthly

Leading people runs on trust. AI can prep the paperwork around it.

Show prep prompt & steps

Where AI still helps: AI can prep the paperwork around leading: meeting agendas, feedback drafts, rotas, briefings and difficult-conversation rehearsals.

Prep prompt

I work as a preschool teacher. Part of my job is to attend staff meetings and serve on committees as required.

Context: The work draws on education and training, psychology and public safety and security.
Committee: [board, department, governing body]
Agenda item: [describe]
My view: [what I'll argue for]

Prepare my position in 2 sentences, the strongest counter-arguments, questions to ask, and what I'll vote or decide based on.

10-minute exercise: Committee meeting prep

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you attend staff meetings.
Step 2Fill in [Committee], [Agenda item] and [My view] with the real details, then run the prompt.
Step 3Read the papers yourself before the meeting.

Importance 3.6/5 · core task · O*NET work activity: Serve on institutional or departmental committees..

Perform administrative duties, such as hall and cafeteria monitoring and bus loading and unloading.

Weekly

Leading people runs on trust. AI can prep the paperwork around it.

Show prep prompt & steps

Where AI still helps: AI can prep the paperwork around leading: meeting agendas, feedback drafts, rotas, briefings and difficult-conversation rehearsals.

Prep prompt

I work as a preschool teacher. Part of my job is to perform administrative duties, such as hall and cafeteria monitoring and bus loading and unloading.

Context: The work draws on education and training, psychology and public safety and security.
Activity: [recess, events, transport, clubs]
Risks: [safety, behaviour]

Make a supervision plan: positions, rules, what to watch, and responses. Give me the key message in 2 sentences, how people might react, and how to respond to each.

10-minute exercise: Supervising activities plan

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you perform administrative duties (this week).
Step 2Fill in [Activity] and [Risks] with the real details, then run the prompt.
Step 3Afterward, note one thing people responded to and one thing you'd change.

Importance 3.9/5 · O*NET work activity: Supervise school or student activities..

Provide students with disabilities with assistive devices, supportive technology, and assistance accessing facilities, such as restrooms.

Monthly

Hands-on care. AI only helps with prep, explanations and paperwork.

Show prep prompt & steps

Where AI still helps: AI can help around the care: plain-language explanations for patients, study and revision, checklists and paperwork drafts. Use only tools your employer has approved for health information.

Prep prompt

I work as a preschool teacher. Part of my job is to provide students with disabilities with assistive devices, supportive technology, and assistance accessing facilities, such as restrooms.

Context: The work draws on education and training, psychology and public safety and security.
Needs: [general description]
Supports: [devices, accommodations]

List supports and how to use them in class. Keep it free of any patient details, add plain-language wording I can use with people, and list the warning signs that mean I should escalate.

10-minute exercise: Supporting students with special needs

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you provide students. Leave out names and identifying details.
Step 2Fill in [Needs] and [Supports] with the real details, then run the prompt.
Step 3Compare it line by line with your protocol. Your protocol always wins.

Importance 4.0/5 · O*NET work activity: Assist students with special educational needs..

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Your next moves

Skills to build

From O*NET's ratings of how important each skill is in this job, matched to which part of the work it supports.

Stays human Deepen these

They power the human-led work, which is the part of the job AI can't take over.

  • Monitoringimportance 3.8/5
    Used in: Assisting and Caring for Others
  • Active Listeningimportance 3.9/5
    Used in: Assisting and Caring for Others
  • Speakingimportance 4.0/5
    Used in: Assisting and Caring for Others
  • Social Perceptivenessimportance 3.8/5
    Used in: Assisting and Caring for Others

With AI Use these to work with AI

When AI does the first draft, these are the skills you use to brief it and check what comes back.

  • Critical Thinkingimportance 3.8/5
    Used in: Thinking Creatively
  • Writingimportance 3.0/5
    Used in: Training and Teaching Others
  • Learning Strategiesimportance 3.9/5
    Used in: Training and Teaching Others
  • Instructingimportance 4.0/5
    Used in: Training and Teaching Others

Where you could move

Related jobs from O*NET with the closest skill profile, favouring ones where more of the work stays human. No step down in preparation.

Getting into this job

High school diploma is most common (29% of workers)

  • High school or less 29%
  • Certificate or some college 23%
  • Associate's 12%
  • Bachelor's 25%
  • Graduate degree 12%
  • On-the-job training: up to 1 month
  • Related experience: 6–12 months

What workers in this job report, from O*NET surveys (typical values).

Software in this job

In-demand tools from O*NET. Many now have AI built in, so check what yours can do before adding a new tool.

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