영유아보육법에 따른 보육교사의 권리 분석 및 권리 인식과 전문성이 영유아 권리존중 보육 실행에 미치는 영향 연구

An Analysis of Childcare Teachers’ Rights Under the Child Care Act and Their Impact on Respecting Children's Rights Practices

Objective: This study aims to explore the rights of childcare teachers as guaranteed by the Child Care Act and examine their awareness of these rights, the extent to which they are upheld, and their perceptions of professionalism in relation to respecting children's rights. Methods: The Child Care Act was analyzed and a survey was conducted with 374 childcare teachers in Seoul, Gyeonggi, and Incheon. Results: First, the Child Care Act does not include the right to claim living security, the right to guaranteed status, the right to non-arrest, or the right to file a lawsuit. Second, childcare teachers’ awareness of rights varied based on the type of childcare center and job role, while perceptions of professionalism differed according to educational background and job role. Third, higher awareness of rights among childcare teachers was associated with better rights guarantees, and greater perceptions of professionalism correlated with improved implementation of practices respecting children's rights. Conclusion/Implications: This study provides an empirical basis for understanding how childcare teachers' rights and perceptions of professionalism influence the implementation of childcare practices that respect children's rights, a key indicator of quality childcare.