Every educator must have a code of ethics to hold them to high standards. There are several ideals that I hold close to my career and my professional development.
1. 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, 2009).
2. Recognize that children and adults achieve their full potential in the context of relationships that are based on trust and respect. (NAEYC, 2005).
3. To promote knowledge and understanding of young children and their needs. To work toward
greater societal acknowledgment of children’s rights and greater social acceptance of responsibility for the well-being of all children. (NAEYC, 2005).
These are just a few of the ideals and principles that I believe in for my career and for my colleagues.
One last thing that I remind all of my colleagues: Always remember that children are young and will make mistakes. Our job is to help them and teach them how to be self-sufficient in the world. Our job is to teach them confidence and encourage exploration in their play.
Megan,
ReplyDeleteI too value the ethical codes you selected. I particularly like the second that speaks on trust. It is so important to build that trust foundation so that the relationship will continue to grow and flourish.
Megan,
ReplyDeleteNot only do I like that you focused on the ideal of inclusion of those who have disabilities but I like how you point out that children make mistakes. I often tell my teachers that we must refrain from imposing our wants and needs on to the children. That often we are frustrated because of what we expect, not what is developmentally appropriate practice of a child.