When it comes to children a well-trained caregiver makes all the difference in the world. A well-trained caregiver - one who has received training in early childhood education and care - has earned the title "early childhood professional." Well-trained caregivers make a positive, lifelong contribution to the growth and development of children. Their training is a mark of professionalism. They know that their work is vitally important and they take their job seriously because quality early childhood education and care helps children reach their full potential.

A caregiver who has received training in child growth and development knows that simple tasks and activities shared with children provide important learning opportunities for young minds. A well-trained caregiver knows how to set up valuable learning experiences for children, and is able to take advantage of unplanned, "teachable moments" as they occur. Well-trained caregivers and teachers understand:

• Child Growth & Development - Caregivers & teachers understand how children acquire language and creative expression, and how they develop physically, cognitively and socially.
• Learning Environment/Curriculum - Caregivers & teachers create an environment that provides learning experiences to meet the individual needs of each child.
• Child Observation & Assessment - Caregivers & teachers observe and assess what children know and can do in order to provide a curriculum that meets the developmental and learning needs of each child.
• Families & Communities - Caregivers & teachers work collaboratively with families and agencies or organizations to meet children's needs and encourage community involvement.
• Health, Safety & Nutrition - Caregivers & teachers work to establish and maintain an environment that ensures each child's healthy development, safety and nourishment.
• Interactions with Children - Establishing supportive relationships with children and guiding them individually and as part of a group.
• Program Planning & Development - Knowing how to establish, implement and evaluate an early education and care program.
• Professional Development/Leadership - Serving children and families in a professional manner, as a proud representative of the early childhood field.