Ethics

For this week's assignment I had to review NAEYC's and DEC's Code of Ethics and select three that mean the most to me professionally.  The three I have selected are all from NAEYC's Code of Ethical Conduct.  The first is:

P-4.7—When we become aware of a practice or situation that endangers the health, safety, or well-being of children, we have an ethical responsibility to protect children or inform parents and/or others who can.


As professionals in the field of early childhood, this has to be true for all of us.  A child's safety is the most important thing and as advocates for the children we know or the "voice for the voiceless"(Renatta Cooper) we have to speak the truth despite how difficult it may be at times.


The second one I chose was:


I-3B.2—To do nothing that diminishes the reputation of the program in which we work unless it is violating laws and regulations designed to protect children or is violating the provisions of this Code.


I believe that while someone is working with children and families they need to set a good example and consider the fact that they are being watched by the families they are working with.  While they are personally observed, the center they work for is also represented by their behavior and this is a serious responsibility to consider.


Lastly:


P-1.1—Above all, we shall not harm children. We shall not participate in practices that are emotionally damaging, physically harmful, disrespectful, degrading, dangerous, exploitative, or intimidating to children.


This is a given for me and should be for all of us I believe.  Again, children are the most important.  We all need to comprehend the true weight of our roles in their lives.