Codes of Ethics

The NAEYC and DEC Codes of Ethics act as a blueprint for how early childhood professionals should manage their behavior.

NAEYC Codes

1-1.1 To be familiar with the knowledge base of early childhood care and education and to stay informed through continuing education and training.

This ideal is important to me because we must grow our knowledge base if we want to offer our children and families the best education possible.

1-2.2 To develop relationships of mutual trust and create partnerships with the families we serve.

This ideal is important to me because we must trust families, but more importantly they must trust us in order for their child to have the best experience possible. I believe this trust is built through open, honest, and frequent communication.

1-3A.2 To share resources with co-workers in meeting their professional needs and in their professional development.

This ideal is important to me because we must collaborate with each other and help each other to grow.

DEC Codes
1. We shall demonstrate in our behavior and language respect and appreciation for the unique value and human potential of each child.

This ideal is important to me because we must model respect for children at all times and remember that their thoughts and feelings are as important as our own.

2. We shall support professionals new to the field by mentoring them in the practice of evidence and ethically based service.

This ideal is important to me because as teachers we must be willing to share our knowledge with new professionals. As we engage with them in the mentoring process we will grow and learn as well.

3. We shall demonstrate our respect and concern for children, families, colleagues, and others with whom we work, honoring their beliefs, values, customs, languages, and culture.

This ideal is important to me because it shows that we are all worthy. No matter how different we are we are all important. This is something we must model for our children.