Professionalism in Early Childhood Education

As you explore the field of early childhood education (ECE), you will learn what it means to be an ECE professional. One aspect is ethical conduct. Professionals resolve the ethical dilemmas they encounter with a well-established code. Professionals also depend on evidence-based practices to inform their decision-making processes.

Advocacy has a central role in ECE. It means supporting or recommending changes to existing practices. You may be passionate about maintaining low teacher-student ratios. Or your commitment to social justice may inspire you to advocate for equitable benefits and compensation for ECE professionals. Whatever you choose, the importance of informed advocacy cannot be overemphasized. As an advocate, you expect to be taken seriously. Therefore, you really have to know your profession when you advocate for children, whether you lobby your senator or attend the local school board meeting.

After completing this resource, Learners will be able to:

• Explain what it means to be an ECE professional: ethical conduct and using evidence-based practices
• Describe the role of advocacy in the field of ECE
• Explain ways early childhood professionals can contribute the development of policies that impact early childhood education
• Explain what it means to be a culturally competent early childhood professional