Examining Codes of Ethics

Examining Codes of Ethics

From the Division of Early Childhood (DEC)

Responsive Family Centered Practices:

-We shall respect, value, promote, and encourage the active participation of ALL families by engaging families in ways in the assessment and intervention processes.

-We shall respect families’ rights to choose or refuse early childhood special education or related services.

Enhancement of Children’s and Families’ Quality of Lives:

-We shall recognize and respect the dignity, diversity, and autonomy of the families and children we serve.

From NAEYC Code of Ethical Conduct

Section II

Ethical Responsibilities to Families

Ideals

1-2.1-To develop relationships of mutual trust and create partnerships with the families we serve.

1-2.2-To welcome all family members and encourage them to participate in the program.

1-2.6-To acknowledge families’ childrearing values and their right to make decisions for their children.

The significance of these codes of ethics to my professional life is to know that parents feel competent and realize the roles as advocates for their children. An open door policy is another wonderful characteristic for a parent to know when enrolling their child in a school so they’ll know they are welcome in their child’s learning experience at all appropriate times. As educators have to realize and know that parents also have “Parent’s Rights and Responsibilities” and when engaged in IEP (Individualized Educational Plan) or IFSP (Individualized Family Service Plan) meetings, they have the right to disagree or agree to their child receiving certain services and they can simply sign off on their tracking folders when meeting with ancillary team members. These are all meaningful to me and the role I have as a teacher in a public school system and having a child of my own with special needs.