Codes of Ethics

There are three codes of ethics found from the DEC and the naeyc that I have found especially meaningful.


1. "We shall empower families with information and resources so that they are informed consumers of services for their children (DEC, 2000)."


I find this code to be meaningful because I believe it is an area that I really need to put emphasis on.  I get along very well with my students and their families, but have I really involved them and given them the tools they need to make smart, educated choices for their child?  I feel I could improve in this area.  By improving, I can make the parent more a part of the educational process and in doing so, we become more of a team for that child.


2. "To support the right of each child to play and learn in an inclusive environment that meets the needs of children with or without disabilities (NAEYC, 2005)."


This statement is meaningful to me because until last year, I had never participated in inclusion or had a disabled child in my class.  All in one year, I had three inclusion children and one child with many disabilities.  This really opened my eyes to their special needs and I felt that as a teacher, i had to grow to meet those needs.  I had to step outside of my comfort zone and teach things in a new way, set up my classroom in a new way and be understanding and patient in a new way.  Even though at times it was trying, in the end, it was truly a rewarding experience.


3. "To share resources with co-workers, collaborating to ensure that the best possible early childhood care and education program is provided (NAEYC, 2005)."


I used to to somewhat just stay to myself.  I didn't collaborate with co-workers on projects or ideas.  When I had a good idea, I kept it to myself and for my class.  I have come to realize that by sharing our ideas and new information, everyone benefits. As educators, if we can work as a team, everyone wins.  We have a broader base of knowledge and our students reap the benefits of many good ideas put together for the common good of the students.


Resources:
 The Division for Early Childhood. (2000, August). Code of ethics. Retrieved May 26, 2010, from
http://www.dec-sped.org/


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