Code of Ethics

Both the NAEYC and DEC have Codes of Ethics that give early childhood educators a guideline on how to behave within our profession. Here are a few excerpts from the NAEYC that are meaningful to me.

I-1.11-To ensure that each child's culture, language, ethnicity, and family structure are recognized and valued in the program. On a daily basis I try to ensure that I meet this part of the code of ethical conduct. I work at a center with a very diverse population. Families represent a wide variety of culture, language and family structure. I strive to make sure that each of their difference and similarities are represented in their individual classroom as well as in the center as whole. We make sure that families see different languages represented in the classrooms, and that especially during holiday times we respect each individual belief.

I-2.-To be familiar with the knowledge base related to working effectively with families and to stay informed through continuing education and training. I, personally make this specific ideal a priority in my life. The world of early childhood education is constantly changing and new theories and information comes out every day. It's important to me to make sure that I at least have a knowledge of these developments. Through my employment I am required to have 15 continuing education hours per year, which helps to keep me on the cutting edge of information!

I-3A.1-To establish and maintain relationships of respect, trust, confidentiality, collaboration, and cooperation with co-workers. Respect, trust, confidentiality, collaboration and cooperation with co-workers is something that I value greatly. I work with a group of 35 amazing full time lead and assistant teachers. In a building that large creating relationships that follow all of these ideals can be hard. Each teacher has a different personality, learning style, and teaching style, and it is my job to figure out how to bring that all together and how to praise them each individually.

Each year we have all of our staff recommit to the NAEYC Code of Ethical Conduct by signing it to be placed in their files. It gives staff the opportunity for a refresher as to my expectations and just a general idea of how to move forward for the year with children, families, and co-workers.

Reference

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