Meaningful Code of Ethics
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 principle has precedence over all others in this Code.
· This statement has such a huge impact on those that read it. You know right away that we are setting the tone to keep the best interests of the children at heart. No matter what in this field we are here to protect our children and never to cause them harm. This principle trumps all other every time.
To be familiar with the knowledge base of early childhood care and education and to stay informed through continuing education and training.
· The field of early childhood education is constantly changing. As professionals we need to make sure we have a solid foundation of the field, and to continuously seek information through education and trainings to stay up to date on the current trends. We need to do this to ensure our children and families are receiving the best services possible.
We shall demonstrate the highest standards of personal integrity, truthfulness, and honesty in all our professional activities in order to inspire the trust and confidence of the children and families and of those with whom we work.
NAEYC. (2005, April). Code of ethical conduct and statement of commitment. Retrieved May 26, 2010, fromhttp://www.naeyc.org/files/naeyc/file/positions/PSETH05.pdf
The Division for Early Childhood. (2000, August). Code of ethics. Retrieved May 26, 2010, fromhttp://www.dec-sped.org/
I totally agree with your statement that to read "Above all, we should not harm children" has a great impact on people viewing those words. As early childhood professionals, it is our duty to help everyone live by that principle, whether they are part of our field or not. I would love to live in a world where there are not accounts of children being abused or neglected or worse. I may not achieve the goal of ending the harmful experiences of children....but I can try.
ReplyDeleteMelanie,
ReplyDeleteI think it is interesting that you and I both chose the first two principles just the same. I agree with you that it is our duty and responsiblity as an early childhood professional to ensure that no harm is made to children.
Additionally, I think that it is critical that early childhood professionals continually learn. This program is helping to deepen our learning and understanding as well as opeing the door to all the learning possiblities that are in front of us.
It has been great reading you posts this semester!
Jill
Hi Melanie,
ReplyDeleteI, too, chose the first of do no harm. I find it sad that it has to be put in an actual code of ethics. Shouldn't it just be implied that we should do no harm to children. I guess it's better to safe than sorry.
Thanks for writing such great posts this semester. Cheers!
The children are truly our number one priority. If it was not for them we would not have a job. I also agree that we as teachers and educators should always seek to learn more about our field which is always changeing.
ReplyDelete