Examining Codes of Ethics

The three ideals from the code of ethics that stood out to me from the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) and the Division of Early Childhood (DEC) are;

From the NAEYC:

  To appreciate the vulnerability of children and their dependence on adults;
 
  To recognize and respect the unique qualities, abilities, and potential of each child;
 
  To ensure that each child's culture, language, ethnicity, and family structure are recognized and valued in the program.

  To acknowledge families' child-rearing values and their right to make decisions for their children

These stood out to me because it is important to understand that children are children and that their brains are not developed enough to understand that some of the things that they do are wrong.  It is important not to get frustrated when dealing with children especially when it seems as if they are not listening or are too active etc.  Just remember they are only children.  Recognizing the uniqueness of a child is a given.  I like this ideal because this shows that you really know each child and care about their strengths and weaknesses.  Respect is also important regardless of the age of the child or their cultures and beliefs.  Child-rearing is similar to respecting different cultures and their beliefs.  Recognizing that each family has a right to raise their child the way they see fit is essential.  It is important to recognize this and know that each child is different and may require different parenting styles.

From the DEC

  We shall serve as advocates for children with disabilities and their families and for the professionals who serve them by supporting both policy and programmatic decisions that enhance the quality of their lives.

Children with disabilities are already at a disadvantage with most things in life so they need an advocate to speak up for them and protect their rights as human beings.  It is sad that people with disabilities tend to get taken advantage of.  However, advocates on their behalf help to make things so much better for them.