Ethics in Early Childhood

When I first started teaching I didn't realize that there were so many resources for professionals in the field of child development. As I began to become really invested in the field and joined the NAEYC I was looking for guiding principals to help me be the best early childhood professional I could be. One of the most important resources I found and still refer to is the NAEYC position statement on Ethical Conduct. This important document gives professionals guiding principals on our responsibilities to children, families, and each other. I think that there are a few that are the most important values and all inservice teachers need to be aware of. These values are 

1. We shall strive to build individual relationships with each child; make individualized adaptations in teaching strategies, learning environments, and curricula; and consult with the family so that each child benefits from the program. If after such efforts have been exhausted, the current placement does not meet a child’s needs, or the child is seriously jeopardizing the ability of other children to benefit from the program, we shall collaborate with the child’s family and appropriate specialists to determine the additional services needed and/or the placement option(s) most likely to ensure the child’s success. (Aspects of this principle may not apply in programs that have a lawful mandate to provide services to a particular population of children.)

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 to ensure a culturally consistent environment for all children and
families.

3,We shall recognize the contributions of colleagues to our program and not participate in practices

that diminish their reputations or impair their effectiveness in working with children and families

Resources for the Field

I struggle with finding an effective way to store resources especially articles. I have begun to organize printed articles by category and type (for parents, teachers, or both), so I can pull them when I need to. The problem is it takes up a lot of time and space. Compiling resources into one place has been very helpful. The NAEYC website has archived issues of Young Children on their website for members. With this archive all I had to do is to save the table of contents for easy reference and can pull up and email or print the articles I need. This solves some of my problem. The other problem I have is with resource books, I have been called an addict to reading and collecting books on early childhood and education in general. I have a few that never seem to make it back on the shelf and sit dog eared and highlighted on my desk, or in my bag. These three books have been the foundation of my career and are a must for every library

The Visionary Director by Margie Carter and Deb Curtis- This book has been my guide as I have taken on the role of a center director.I have turned to this valuable resource when I am feeling run down and like I should just give. It gives me inspiration and reinvigorates my sprite.

The second book is The Intentional Teacher by Ann Epstein. This book has helped in in guiding my staff and sharing my personal teaching philosophy and  how to  be sure that everything we do with young children has a purpose full-time job.

The last book that I relied on when I started teaching is the NAEYC Developmentally Appropriate Practice. This resource I use often when I need to expand or deepen the understanding of a concept of developmentally appropriate practice.