Examining Code of Ethics

The NAEYC and DEC code of ethics represents a high level of standards and core values in the field of early childhood education. They ensure the purpose and focus of the work done by caregivers, educators, and policy-makers remain vibrant as they carry out day-to-day tasks. Because all of the ideals are valid and appreciated, it was not a simple task to choose only three. However, here are the ideals that are most meaningful to my profession.

 

Ethical Responsibilities to Children

a.       To create and maintain safe and healthy settings that foster children’s social, emotional, cognitive, and physical development and that respect their dignity and their contributions.

b.      To work with families to provide a safe and smooth transition as children and families move from one program to the next.

c.       To be familiar with the knowledge base of early childhood care and education and to stay informed through continuing education and training.

d.      To recognize and respect the unique qualities, abilities, and potential of each child.

 

DEC

Professional and Interpersonal Behavior

a.       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.

b.      We shall strive for the highest level of personal and professional competence by seeking and using new evidence based information to improve our practices while also responding openly to the suggestions of others.

c.       We shall build relationships with individual children and families while individualizing the curricula and learning environments to facilitate young children’s development and learning.

 

These ideals are significant because I want above all else for the children I work with to be safe and healthy. I want the work done with and for them to be effective in preparing them to transition successfully into elementary school. It is paramount that families are involved with the development of their children at and away from home and that as professionals we continue to seek improvements and research what is best for early learners. It is important that lessons plans and activities are relevant to the needs of each individual and most of all, it is important that children have fun, parents are happy, and educators teach with passion.