Professionalism can be defined many different ways. Often the definition can be slightly changed depending on the field that a person works in. At times the requirements for the jobs are different. However, a professional is defined as a person engaged, competent or qualified in a profession. So, what makes a good Early Childhood professional?

There are many aspects that consistently are brought up when thinking of what a professional is in the education field. Here is what others have to say:

• An individual who follows a set of expectations, guidelines, or developmental milestones that describe what all children from birth until kindergarten entry should know and be able to do and their disposition toward learning. These standards must be appropriate for each age group of infants, toddlers, and preschoolers and English learners, and for children with developmental delays and disabilities. In addition, the standards must cover all the Essential Domains of School Readiness, and must be developmentally, linguistically, and culturally appropriate.- The Department of Education

• Caregivers and teachers who are well trained and understand how to promote learning and healthy development.- Linda Jacobson (Author at EducationDive)

• Established professions are built upon a shared purpose, common identity and agreement on the unique responsibilities and characteristics of their professionals, defined by the profession itself.- National Association of the Education of Young Children

The McCormick Center of Early Childhood Leadership says that members of the Early Childhood Education Profession are responsible and accountable for:

1. Planning and implementing intentional, developmentally appropriate learning experiences that advance the cognitive, social, emotional, and physical development of children
2. Establishing and maintaining a safe and healthy learning environment
3. Developing reciprocal relationships with families and communities
4. Advocating for the needs of children and their families
5. Advancing and advocating for the early childhood education profession

That is what individuals have to say in regard to what it means to be an Early Childhood professional. So the question is, what is different from other educational professionals? The responsibilities and ethics are compatible, yet the wages are not?

What Else Represents being a Professional?

Watch the following video to learn basic professional skills in the workplace.

Really, What is the Difference?

Right now, Early Childhood professionals are trying to meet the standards that see them as professionals. Yet, they are still not treated and compensated as such. The only factor left is to ensure that all educators are educated to the same standards. This could be the deciding reason to get legislators to get on board. As working adults, going back to school can be intimidating. However, this is what other Early Childhood educators said about going back to school:

If you want better wages and benefits for the field, now is the time to work for it!