A professional development plan helps you set goals and take action in a way that is right for you. Taking time to think about your work and your goals can help you set yourself up for success. Whether you work with young children and families or your work as a trainer, coach, consultant or mentor, we’re here to help.
Getting started
An important first step is to think about your current skills, your career goals, and what works well for you as a learner. This will help you create a plan that will help you learn and grow.
We’ve created the reflection tool for developing your individual professional development plan (IPDP) based on OEC’s core knowledge and competency frameworks. Whether you are an early care and childhood professional who works with children and families or a technical assistance providers, the reflection tool is your personal guide for thinking. Choose the format that works best for you:
- Download the reflection tool (paper version for teachers and administrators working with children and families)
- Use the online reflection tool (online tool for teachers and administrators working with children and families)
- Use the online reflection tool (for technical assistance providers working with the early childhood workforce: trainers, coaches, consultants, mentors)
Conducting reflective supervision
If you’re a supervisor and would like to talk with your staff about their professional development, the reflection IPDP tool may help.
Make sure to follow best practices for reflective supervision and check out reflective supervision resources.
Use the reflection tool to engage in an a conversation about growth opportunities — not to evaluate your staff.