The view of the educator in this framework is that educators have many roles. The most important role for the educator is their connection and relationship to the children and the families. As an educator it is an honor to be able to be a part of a child's growth and development. Families invite educators into their child’s lives and in unity and collaboration there is opportunity to build a community of holistic learning that benefits not only the child but society as a whole. Roles of an Educator

 

Educators are to be valued for their professionalism, passion, and ability to balance the many roles that are integrated into their work. 

 

Educators are responsive, reflective, resourceful, supportive, creative, curious, questioning, competent, researchers, problem solvers, collaborators, innovators, observers and lifelong learners.

 

The educator's role is one of being in connection and relationship with children, families and colleagues. The educator is the observer of learning and social relationships. The educator is the documentor who pieces together the learning moments, schemas, and helps put gathered information into action building upon the learning that is happening. The educator has to understand the dance of learning and know when to step back and not interrupt play, and when to step in to help encourage or ignite a spark for learning moments.

 

An educator is a reflector in their own personal learning and in the educating of others. Educators are not only the teachers but the learners. Reflection is an important aspect in looking at designing and delivering play experiences. Reflection is a tool for helping educators learn and understand themselves and their role as educators and contributors. Example of Reflective Practice 

 

An educator has the right to employment that is inclusive and offers equity regardless of culture, ethnicity, language, spirituality, religion, gender, sexuality, socio economic status, family structure or abilities. Educators have the right to physical spaces that allow them to participate and engage in educating young children.

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An educator has the right for respect, free of harassment, abuse (mental, physical, sexual) and inappropriate behavior from families and other professionals.

 

An educator has the right to appropriate working conditions within an inviting environment that represents belonging.

 

An educator has a right to professional wages and equal opportunities within the profession.