Ethics in Early Childhood

Ethics are a group of rules that govern conduct.  Ethics are developed and evolve over time and are the result of intrinsic and extrinsic perspectives.  We have our own set of ethics that govern our day to day interactions with family and friends.  As professionals we also have guidelines or ethics to promote uniformity in understanding and practice.

The process of reviewing and selecting three of the most meaningful “rules” from the Code of Ethics drafted by respected associations such as the National Association for the Education of Young Children and the Division of Early Childhood is a difficult task.  However upon much review and consideration relationships advocacy and ethical practice are three areas that are most meaningful.

 

 

Relationships

Recognise that children and adults achieve their full potential in the context of relationships that are based on trust and respect. (NAEYC,Code of Ethical Conduct and Statement of Commitment, 2005)

Relationships are the basis of all successful interactions.  Families trust professionals to be supporting their children to maximize the child’s potential.  To ensure and maintain trust, professionals must provide a safe and caring environment where developmentally appropriate practices are evident.  Professionals must exhibit respect to ensure that families develop meaningful and engaging relationships; providing feedback to and learning from professionals.

Advocacy

 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. (The Code of Ethics of the Division for Early Childhood (DEC), 2009) 

This is important for multiple reasons.  It is critical that all children with exceptionalities and their families are respected and valued within a inclusive environment.  To me this means that the environment is most enabling for the child to reach their maximum potential.  This is also an environment where families’ voices and perspectives are heard, respected and guided.   Often, universally differentiated strategies used to support children with special needs benefit  all children.

Ethical Practice

We shall use every resource, including referral when appropriate, to ensure high quality services are accessible and are provided to children and families. (The Code of Ethics of the Division for Early Childhood (DEC), 2009)

To me this means professionals are obligated to be informed demonstrating developmentally appropriate practices, ethical interventions in conjunction with the individual child’s strengths and needs.  To ensure that this occurs, staff must be aware of developmental milestones, select appropriate evaluative tools and assessment process.  This will ensure that internal interventions or community based referrals are informed and appropriate and timely.

 

 

 References

Feeney, S., & Kipnis, K. (1989). NAEYC Code of Ethical Conduct and Statement of Commitment. Young  

Children, 45(1), 24-29.

 

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