Children
In the DEC Code of Ethics, all four under the heading "Enhancement of Childrens' and Families' Quality of Life" are so very important. Number four states "We shall advocate for equal access to high quality services and supports for all children and families to enhance their quality of lives." I want my center to be one of the high quality services and to be a voice for children.
The Division for Early Childhood. (2000 August) Code of Ethics. Retrieved May 26, 2010 from http://www.dec-sped.org
Families
In the NAEYC Code of Ethical Conduct , Section II is titled "Ethical Responsibilities to Families" and parts I2.1 through I2.9 are all equally important and it is difficult to choose just one. So I am highlighting both I2.2 and 3. "To develop relationships of mutual trust and create partnerships with the families we serve" and "To welcome all family members and encourage them to participate in the program." Some of the readings we have done for class have encouraged me to deepen my relationships with the families I serve. The understanding I have of them deepens my understanding of their children.
Employees/Colleagues
In Section III the "Ethical Responsibilities to Colleagues" all four Ideals on page 5 are essential. In our field so many little eyes are watching and we must practice what we preach. Disseminating information and having highly trained staff is invaluable to what we do. At this point in my career, I am very interested in I 3A.2 which states, "To share resources with co-workers, collaborating to ensure that the best possible early childhood care and education program is provided." If we share, trade and take turns with other adults, we teach our children to do the same!
NAEYC. (2005, April). Code of ethical conduct and statement of commitment. Retrieved May 26,
The revelation I have had while taking this class is that I am not becoming a leader in the early childhood field, I already am. At least in my center and in my community. That is a scary thought. But I have decided to take a deep breath, take each day as it comes, learn some new things, read a lot more than I currently do, and be the best leader I can be.
I am also going to use much more self reflection than I currently use. I actually have started to make some time for it. Several professionals in the video we watched emphasized it repeatedly.
The following is one of my favorite sayings and I always remembered it when I was in the classroom. But now I have to role model for not only children, but colleagues as well. The quote serves both populations and goes like this:
Your talk talks and your walk walks, but your walk talks louder than your talk talks.
How true, how true!
