Core Body of Knowledge
NY's Core Competencies for Early Childhood Educators
Navigation
Core Body of Knowledge
New York State's Core Competencies for Early Childhood Educators
The Core Body of Knowledge: New York State's Core Competencies for Early Childhood Educators, is a resource for professionals who work directly with young children.
The Core Body of Knowledge recommends practices for building meaningful relationships with children, families and colleagues; for creating nurturing, stimulating environments; and for developing oneself as a professional in the early childhood field.
The fourth and most recent edition of the Core Body of Knowledge was updated in 2024.

Important: The Core Body of Knowledge was revised in 2024 and will be adopted statewide in early 2026. The interactive competencies below reflect the prior edition, which remains in effect through the end of 2025.
Area 1
Child Growth and Development
Area 2
Family and Community Relationships
Area 3
Observation and Assessment
Area 4
Environment and Curriculum
Area 5
Health, Safety, and Nutrition
Area 6
Professionalism and Leadership
Area 7
Administration and Management