11 Arizona Early Childhood Career and Professional Development Network Guide Core knowledge and competencies define the content (knowledge) and skills (competencies) that adults working with young children need to support children’s individualized learning experiences and development. Define what early care and education professionals need to know and be able to do to provide quality care and education for children. Serve as the foundation for decisions and practices carried out by professionals in all early care and education settings. Establish a set of standards that support the professionalism of the field. Are the foundations of a comprehensive professional development system. The Workforce Knowledge and Competencies guide the content of all professional development and course objectives, providing us with shared competencies. Shared competencies will assist in planning, selecting, and tracking an individuals’ professional development growth. The Workforce Knowledge and Competencies are divided into eight core knowledge areas: Child Growth & Development Curriculum & Learning Environment Child Observation & Assessment Effective Interactions (Adult-Child, Child-Adult, and Child-Child) Health, Safety & Nutrition Family & Community Partnerships Professionalism Program Management