The following core competencies provide guidance about the knowledge and skills needed by professionals working with young children and their families. (Wisconsin Core Competencies For Professionals Working with Young Children & Their Families, 2014, p. 15).

1. Commit to working within the regulations, practices, code of ethics, and standards of the profession.
2. Demonstrate knowledge of applicable state and agency regulations with respect to such issues as eligibility for services, confidentiality, reporting of child abuse, and others.
3. Be knowledgeable about community, county, state, and national resources; inform others about the value of services and programs for children and families; and be able to make appropriate referrals.
4. Value participatory management, model work standards, and other principles and frameworks for quality work environments.
5. Work collaboratively with community and professional resources, and advocate for children, families, and the profession.
6. Work collaboratively as a member of a team by practicing openness to new information, communicating clearly one’s own position and value, and using facilitation skills.
7. Become skilled at communication, conflict resolution, working with difficult people, ensuring personal safety, setting professional boundaries, and understanding limitations.
8. Apply strategies to evaluate outcomes and assess effectiveness of programs on all participants
9. Utilize opportunities to regularly identify, gather, analyze, synthesize, and evaluate information to strengthen the quality and effectiveness of work.
10. Stay current on the latest research and technology.
11. Practice visionary leadership, collaboration, and advocacy to a wide audience to improve programs and practices for young children and their families. Learn how to tell your story to have an effect on others.