I-3C.2- To create and maintain a climate of trust and candor that will enable staff to speak and act in the best interests of children, families, and the field of early childhood care and education. (NAEYC)
III. 3.3- We shall recognize and respect the dignity, diversity, and autonomy of the families and children we serve. (DEC)
II.2- We shall continually be aware of issues challenging the field of early childhood special education and advocate for changes in laws, regulations, and policies leading to improved outcomes and services for young children with disabilities and their families. (DEC)
As I am growing in my profession and as a leader within the field of early childhood education, it is important to stay aware of all the current policies, developments, and changes within the field. In doing so, I will become a better resource to those who have limited access. Staying up to date will also enhance my performance as an advocate and it will position me so that I will always be able to make intelligent choices and decisions; knowing, it can be backed by resources, data, policy, research, and experience. In efforts to serve families and children, the value of trust is vital to my success. It is important for me to be truthful and honest but also humble when working with families and children. Honesty and truth will help to form relationships and show dedication and commitment which are important qualities for families to feel from ECE professionals. Trust and honesty are also important for me to possess as I build and maintain relationships with colleagues and other ECE professionals. In order for me excel I have to have a wide resource pool which includes professionals, and without the support and contribution of others it would be impossible to move forward within the field. Aside from trust and truth, I should always have and maintain respect for families and their children. With such a wide array of cultures, diversity, economic statuses, and family compositions, no family is alike. As I continue to flourish within the field, keeping these 3 ideals close to heart will allow for continued success; as education, respect and honesty are fundamental qualities of success in life and prosperity.
Resources
NAEYC. (2005, April). Code of ethical conduct and statement of commitment. Retrieved May 26, 2010, from http://www.naeyc.org/files/naeyc/file/positions/PSETH05.pdf
The Division for Early Childhood. (2000, August). Code of ethics. Retrieved May 26, 2010, from http://www.dec-sped.org/
