Examining Codes of Ethics

Ideals from NAEYC and DEC Codes of Ethics

Both the NAEYC and DEC have Codes of Ethics that serve as guidelines for early childhood practices. Both codes of ethics are great resources for educators to have and to follow; the following three ideals are ones that especially stood out to me:

1. We shall demonstrate in our behavior and language respect and appreciation for the unique value and human potential of each child (DEC, Personal and Interpersonal Behavior).

This ideal is meaningful to me and significant to my professional life because it really captures the essence of being an early childhood educator. Everyone is unique and has different ways of doing things, learning things, and communicating things-and there is no exception for children! As a teacher, it is important to keep this in mind and realize that every child has something valuable to bring to the classroom and the learning/teaching experience. It is also important not to write a child off because they are not interested in or need modifications to one aspect of the classroom-they still have their own unique potential and as a teacher it is important to realize this and help guide it in the right direction instead of stifling it. This is something that we cannot just say we are in support of but must model and appreciate through our behavior-our actions and teaching.

2. To respect the dignity and preferences of each family and to make an effort to learn about its structure, culture, language, customs, and beliefs (NAEYC, I-2.5).  

This is another ideal that is both meaningful and significant to me as a professional. I chose this one because the relationships between the family, child, and teachers/school are ones that I feel very deeply about. It is important as an educator to respect not only the role of the family, but the family itself. Families are not cookie-cutter perfect, especially in today’s day and age; they come in many different forms and varieties. It is important not only for the educator to respect that but to teach respect for that and model this behavior for the students. This is something that I try to do in my classroom, I feel very strongly that it is important for my students to know that there are many different ways to live and that all ways, even if they are “different” need to be respected.

3.  To promote knowledge and understanding of young children and their needs. To work toward greater societal acknowledgement of children’s rights and greater societal responsibility for the well-being of all children (NAEYC, I-4.6).  

I chose this ideal because it really sums up my motivation behind my personal /professional goals and my passion. This ideal is the same vision that I hope to see and strive to make this happen in my community; early childhood is such an important time but it is not well-recognized as such. This ideal is one that will be constantly changing and growing as more research and education about young children’s needs and development emerges but overall the message will stay the same-as a society we need to understand and respect that young children have needs and rights and it takes a society to help make sure that they are met. As educators, this is especially important as we can not only advocate for young children and their families, but help educate parents and others about the importance of the early years and raise social awareness about the issues surrounding them. 

References:

The Division for Early Childhood (2000, August). Code of ethics. Retrieved from http://www.dec-sped.org/

NAEYC (2005, April). Code of ethical conduct and statement of commitment. Retrieved from
http://www.naeyc.org/files/naeyc/file/positions/PSETH05.pdf