Code of Ethics

This week I was interested to find the Code of Ethics from the NAEYC and DEC in our resource readings.  I felt all fo them stated important purposes in the categories they represented. In choosing some that were meaningful to me, I found I always came to the ones that focused on the responsibilities to children. While I agree with the ideals of the other areas, I guess I just feel that the ones that meet the needs of the children spoke to me the most. Here are some examples of the ideals I found meaningful and why:

#1- 1.1.2: To base program practices upon current knowledge and research

in the field of early childhood education, child development,

and related disciplines, as well as on particular knowledge

of each child. 

The "of each child" is the part the was most meaningful to me because

I feel that as a teacher, I really strive to know each and every child

and meet his/her needs specifically. I base my lessons

on the children I have in my class that year. I don't do the 

same things every year the same way because every child

learns differently. I try my hardest not to ever compare, even to siblings; and 

I always want each child to feel

important and special.

#2-1.1.3: To recognize and respect the unique qualities, abilities, 

and potential of each child.

As much as one child wears me out on a given day, I always

try and find the positive qualities in them. I think it is important

to respect their individual qualities, because they are so innocent

and NEW. They are new, young, little people that we are 

shaping to be the person they are meant to be, and I want to

foster those qualities that they come to me with.

#3-1.1.4: To appreciate the vulnerability of children

and their dependence on adults.

There are so many people I see, parents, teachers, caregivers, that 

get frustrated over children needing them; and it drives me crazy.

This ideal seems to simple and basic, but it is so important

that people realize that children do need adults, positive- 

influencing adults.

And then there are two ideals that I did find meaningful to me from other categories. One from Responsibilities to Parents:

#4-1.2.3: To welcome all family members and encourage them 

to participate in the program.

Including families is so important because everyone needs to be 

on the same page in regards to children's education. Not only 

that, but it shows a sense of togetherness to the children,

and I think children respond well to that.

And then I chose one ideal from the Responsibilities to Employers:

#5-1-3B.1: To assist the program in providing the highest

quality of service.

Helping and encouraging my program is a strong value

I try to uphold. Most of our decisions come from board

members of our school's church, but I try to make a difference

where and when I can. And then everyday I try and be 

the best teacher I can be so that parents know

their children are in good care.