Position on Qualifications,
Training and Education for
Early Education and Care Professionals
 

Young children’s development is enhanced when the early education and care programs they attend are staffed by highly qualified professionals.

Highly qualified professionals possess specialized knowledge regarding the health, safety and developmental needs of children. These professionals are life long learners who pursue higher levels of competency through continuing education, supervised experience, and networking.

The Michigan Association for the Education of Young Children (MiAEYC) supports qualifications, training and education for adults who educate and care for young children in all regulated family child care homes, group child care homes, preschools and child care centers. MiAEYC advocates for qualifications and levels of education in the licensing regulations that promote the healthy development of children.

A child’s early years are critical . The research indicates adults who provide education and care must understand the unique needs of young children and create an environment that enhances each child’s development. Specialized knowledge about young children’s development and their care in a group setting will enable adults to create that high quality program .

We believe that:

All who educate and care for children must initially complete a basic level of training and education based on the Early Childhood Core Knowledge and Core Competencies document.
Continuing training and education, emphasizing core knowledge and core competencies, is essential.
On-going mentoring and supervision are necessary for professional growth.
Advancement in the profession is contingent on ongoing professional development.
State regulations must stipulate basic qualifications, training, and education for each position.
Highly trained and educated staff are key to quality education and care.

 

Michigan Association for the Educaiton of Young Children
4572 S. Hagadorn Rd, Suite 1D
East Lansing, MI 48823
800-336-6424
www.MiAEYC.org

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