Code of Ethics

This is my week 7 assignment, which is to post three ideals from the NAEYC and DEC codes of ethics that are meaningful to me and to explain their significance to my professional life.

The NAEYC code of ethics states that “the primary focus of the Code is on daily practice with children and their families in programs for children from birth through 8 years of age…” (NAEYC, 2005). This Code is divided into four sections, addressing professional relationship ideals with 1) children, 2) families, 3) colleagues, and 4) the community and society.  I decided to choose one from the first, second, and fourth categories.

I-1.5 – 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.

I chose this ideal, because I think that even if you don’t have knowledge on the latest early childhood research and resources, or own the latest and greatest toys or texts, that a safe and healthy setting is the least that any professional caregiver should be willing to offer young children.  

I-2.2- To develop relationships of mutual trust and create partnerships with the families we serve.

I chose this ideal, because the family is most important in the child’s life, and it is an honor for me to be chosen to be added into the team, and the least I can offer is to build trust and partnership through respect of their parenting position. Each child is an individual, and I need to get to know the family in order to best support the child.     

1-4.1 – To provide the community with high-quality early childhood care and education programs and services

One of my professional goals is for my daycare to offer the highest quality care that I possibly can. I have always desired to do this for my own personal ambition, as well as for the children and families. But this ideal being stated as an ideal for the community is interesting. I never before realized it, but how I treat my children, and how they grow up, will affect the entire community.

I also chose the following from the DEC code of ethics under Professional and Interpersonal Behavior:

1. We shall demonstrate in our behavior and language respect and appreciation for the unique value and human potential of each child.

I hope that I do this, both professionally and personally. And I could change “child” to the word  “person.” I believe that all people have great value and deserve respect. Just because a child is little, doesn’t mean they are any less human.