Code of Ethics

This week I spent some time reading two code of ethics statements, one from the National Association for the Education of YoungChildren (NAEYC) and the other from the Division for Early Childhood (DEC). Of the many ideals listed, the following three are especially significant to my professional life:

DEC: 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.

Demonstrating respect towards children is the most basic and most important job of an educator. I learned early on in my career that showing children respect and letting them know that you care about them will create a relationship of mutual respect. It is vital that children have positive people in their lives who treat them with kindness. Treating each child with love and respect will help each child grow to his or her full potential. If every child was taught to respect one another, this world would be a much better place.

DEC: Professional and Interpersonal Behavior

                5. We shall use individually appropriate assessment strategies including multiple sources of information such as observations, interviews with significant caregivers, formal and informal assessments to determine children’s learning styles, strengths and challenges.

                This ideal especially relates to me in my role as an Education Director. I am a trainer through the Minnesota Center for Professional Development (MNCPD). Through the MNCPD I train educators (mainly my staff) on Assessment and Curriculum courses. Using authentic assessment to help understand children’s development is incredibly important. However, observations from teachers alone are not very beneficial. Working with families to better understand a child is the best way to understand the “whole child.” Proper assessment strategies will help teachers to individualize instruction, meeting all children’s needs and learning styles.

NAEYC: Ethical Responsibilities to Children

                I:1-1 To be familiar with the knowledge base of early childhood care and education and to stay informed through continuing education and training.

                Having a bachelor’s degree in early childhood education has been extremely beneficial in my career as an educator. Having a solid knowledge base was important but it certainly cannot be the end of my education. It is important for professionals to continue learning throughout their careers. Especially in the field of early childhood education, research is changing all of the time. It is important to stay up to date with best practices.

                I recently joined a cohort of directors from my area in a program called “Sustaining Quality.” We meet every other month to discuss new topics, challenges and learn about new resources available to us. It is very beneficial to have a support system in which we can all share ideas and learn from one another. Staying up to date with early childhood resources will benefit teachers, directors and early childhood programs.