Professionalism:

Examine the Environments

Breadcrumb trail:

Environments play a significant role in the learning process.

The early childhood experience involves planning for a variety of environments. The physical environment may be the first one that comes to mind. But the social, intellectual, and emotional environments are equally important and critical to children's overall well being. Remember that the environment — in all of its aspects — is our partner in providing high quality early childhood programs.

A teacher observes a child arranging plates.

Revisit Scenario #1 - Getting Back on Her Feet in Ethical Dilemmas. The student mom, Suzette, suddenly finds herself homeless, and requests extra time to complete her assignments.

Try This!

  • Write down as many possible responses as you can imagine that the instructor might have had. How might each of these responses affected the social and emotional relationships among students and between the students and instructor?
  • What routines and communications could the instructor put in place from the start to allow for flexibility and individual circumstances, while still maintaining order and equity?
  • In what ways might individual circumstances, exceptions to the rules, be handled that would minimize disruption and maximize a healthy social-emotional environment?

Use this template to record your observations, thoughts, and feelings.  Download the Template

Deepen Your Understanding

California Early Childhood Educator Competencies

Deepen your understanding of the expectations for professionalism by reviewing Performance Area 2: Professional Conduct and Behaviors in the CA ECE Competencies. Scroll to page 100.

Can you find other places in this competency area that address these questions?

Download the California ECE Competencies

California Early Childhood Educator Competencies