Title: Describe the desired characteristics of professionals and paraprofessionals who work with children and families.
Course: Child Development and Parenting (19255-36)

Description should include

- enjoyment of children
- patience
- positive attitude
- sense of humor
- creativity
- honesty
- high moral values
- kindness
- initiative
- professional appearance
- dependability
- responsibility
- commitment to program goals and continuous improvement.

Teacher Resources:

- CTE Trailblazers
- Occupational Outlook Handbook, U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
- The National Career Clusters® Framework, Advance CTE
- Virginia Education Wizard
- The Virginia Office of Education Economics, Virginia Economic Development Partnership

Process/Skill Questions

Thinking

- What personal factors should be considered when working with children and families?
- What criteria should be used to evaluate the characteristics and skills of education and human services professionals?

Communication

- What communication skills are essential in relating to children? Parents? Community? Colleagues?
- Why is confidentiality vital to the fields of education and human services?
- How can nonverbal communication be used when working effectively with children?

Leadership

- How can continuous evaluation and improvement of personal interests, abilities, and skills lead to career success?
- What leadership skills are needed for employability in child development and parenting careers?
- How can one develop leadership skills on the job?

Management

- What factors may affect career goals and choices in this field?
- Why is dependability a key attribute in this field?
- How can an employee demonstrate initiative on the job?