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