The NAEYC Ethical Code of Conduct
focused on four sections for early childhood education professionals that
included: Ethical responsibilities to children, parents, colleagues, and
community/society. The ethical responsibilities are in line with the
five goals of NAEYC: Being a professional, promoting child development and learning, building family and community
relationships, observing, documenting, and assessing, teaching and learning.
The ideals reflect the aspirations of practitioners.
The principles guide conduct and assist practitioners
in resolving ethical dilemmas.
Here are the 3 that resonated with me:
NAEYC Ethical Responsibilities to Families: I-2.2—To develop relationships of mutual trust and create partnerships with the families we serve.
DEC 4. We shall empower families with information and resources so that they are informed consumer of services for their children.
I am a strong believer that if you gain the trust of families you gain the trust of the child. As an educator the best part of teaching is watching and helping the child grow and gain your trust. During this time families should receive information and resources to support their child's growth. Knowing the resources given will help create the best possible environment for the child and aid in creating partnerships that will last a lifetime.
NAEYC Ethical Responsibilities: I-2.4—To listen to families, acknowledge and build up on their strengths and competencies, and learn from families as we support them in their task of nurturing children.
DEC 2. We shall demonstrate the highest standards of personal integrity, truthfulness, and honesty in all our professional activities in order to inspire the trust and confidence of the children and families and of those with whom we work.
I fully support this ideal. Day to day interactions with families are important. They give you insight on what areas can be strengthened. It allows you to improve weaknesses both individually and as a partnership. I've learned that helping families requires compassion. As educators we have to use our power in an honest and integrate way in order to maintain the trust and confidence of families.
- NAEYC Ethical Responsibilities of Children: I-1.3—To recognize and respect the unique qualities, abilities, and potential of each child.
- DEC 1. We shall demonstrate our respect and concern for children, families, colleagues, and others with whom we work, honoring their beliefs, values, customs, languages, and culture.
This ideal is vital for all educators. Each child will grow and learn at their own pace and it is important for educators to believe this. To treat every child as an individual. To see the potential in every child uniquely. It is also equally vital as professionals to treat everyone that we work with as unique individuals by respecting all aspects of difference.
NAEYC. (2005, April). Code of ethical conduct and statement of commitment. Retrieved May 26, 2010, from http://www.naeyc.org/files/naeyc/file/positions/PSETH05.pdf
The Division for Early Childhood. (2000, August). Code of ethics. Retrieved May 26, 2010, from http://www.dec-sped.org/
