As early childhood educators, we must uphold a standard that reflects our professionalism and genuine care for the young children and families we serve. To keep this at the forefront of our minds the NAEYC and DEC has complied a code of ethics. These codes outline the behaviors that early childhood professionals should display in an educational setting. Below, I have listed three ideals that are meaningful to me along with their significance to my professional life.
NAEYC
Ideal:
I-1.8- To support the right of each child to play and learn in an inclusive environment that meets the needs of children with and without disabilities.
Significance:
This ideal holds significance for me because it reminds me that children need opportunities to play even though early childhood education today emphasizes academics in the classroom. It supports my belief that play is beneficial to young children because it fosters language, social, and motor skills. Furthermore, it encourages meaningful relationships between young children.
Ideal:
I-1.9- To advocate for and ensure that all children, including those with special needs, have access to support services needed to be successful.
Significance:
This ideal is significant to me because it points out that all early childhood professionals should be involved in advocacy on some level. It also makes it very clear that all children deserve access to quality educational services. Children are the most vulnerable in our society and they need someone to speak on their behalf.
DEC
Ideal: Enhancement of Children's and Families' Quality of Lives:
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.
Significance:
This ideal has significance because it mentions how important it is to respect our colleagues' diversity just as we would young children and their families. Early childhood professionals should maintain a respectful disposition that is welcoming to everyone. This type of disposition allows for open and honest communication among colleagues and fosters meaningful relationships that are necessary for collaboration.
