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NAEYC Code of Ethical Conduct                                  1                                                 Revised April 2005
                                                                                  POSITION STATEMENT




        naeyc
        Code of Ethical Conduct
        and Statement of Commitment
                                                                                                   Revised April 2005


        A position statement of the National Association for the Education of Young Children


                                                       Endorsed by the Association for Childhood Education International
                                                               Adopted by the National Association for Family Child Care


                      Preamble                                     Core values

NAEYC recognizes that those who work with young                    Standards of ethical behavior in early childhood care
                                                                   and education are based on commitment to the follow-
children face many daily decisions that have moral and
                                                                   ing core values that are deeply rooted in the history of
ethical implications. The NAEYC Code of Ethical
                                                                   the field of early childhood care and education. We
Conduct offers guidelines for responsible behavior and
                                                                   have made a commitment to
sets forth a common basis for resolving the principal
                                                                   • Appreciate childhood as a unique and valuable stage
ethical dilemmas encountered in early childhood care and
                                                                   of the human life cycle
education. The Statement of Commitment is not part of
the Code but is a personal acknowledgement of an                   • Base our work on knowledge of how children develop
individual’s willingness to embrace the distinctive values         and learn
and moral obligations of the field of early childhood care         • Appreciate and support the bond between the child
and education.                                                     and family
   The primary focus of the Code is on daily practice with         • Recognize that children are best understood and
children and their families in programs for children from          supported in the context of family, culture,* community,
birth through 8 years of age, such as infant/toddler               and society
programs, preschool and prekindergarten programs, child            • Respect the dignity, worth, and uniqueness of each
care centers, hospital and child life settings, family child       individual (child, family member, and colleague)
care homes, kindergartens, and primary classrooms.                 • Respect diversity in children, families, and colleagues
When the issues involve young children, then these                 • Recognize that children and adults achieve their full
provisions also apply to specialists who do not work               potential in the context of relationships that are based
directly with children, including program administrators,          on trust and respect
parent educators, early childhood adult educators, and
officials with responsibility for program monitoring and
                                                                   * The term culture includes ethnicity, racial identity, economic
licensing. (Note: See also the “Code of Ethical Conduct:
                                                                   level, family structure, language, and religious and political
Supplement for Early Childhood Adult Educators,” online            beliefs, which profoundly influence each child’s development
at www.naeyc.org/about/positions/pdf/ethics04.pdf.)                and relationship to the world.


                        Copyright © 2005 by the National Association for the Education of Young Children
NAEYC Code of Ethical Conduct                                          2                                            Revised April 2005

Conceptual framework                                                       healthy, nurturing, and responsive for each child. We
                                                                           are committed to supporting children’s development
The Code sets forth a framework of professional respon-                    and learning; respecting individual differences; and
sibilities in four sections. Each section addresses an                     helping children learn to live, play, and work coop-
area of professional relationships: (1) with children, (2)                 eratively. We are also committed to promoting
with families, (3) among colleagues, and (4) with the                      children’s self-awareness, competence, self-worth,
community and society. Each section includes an intro-                     resiliency, and physical well-being.
duction to the primary responsibilities of the early child-
hood practitioner in that context. The introduction is                     Ideals
followed by a set of ideals (I) that reflect exemplary
                                                                           I-1.1—To be familiar with the knowledge base of early
professional practice and by a set of principles (P) de-
                                                                             childhood care and education and to stay informed
scribing practices that are required, prohibited, or per-
                                                                             through continuing education and training.
mitted.
   The ideals reflect the aspirations of practitioners.                    I-1.2—To base program practices upon current knowl-
The principles guide conduct and assist practitioners                        edge and research in the field of early childhood
in resolving ethical dilemmas.* Both ideals and prin-                        education, child development, and related disciplines,
ciples are intended to direct practitioners to those                         as well as on particular knowledge of each child.
questions which, when responsibly answered, can                            I-1.3—To recognize and respect the unique qualities,
provide the basis for conscientious decision making.                         abilities, and potential of each child.
While the Code provides specific direction for address-                    I-1.4—To appreciate the vulnerability of children and
ing some ethical dilemmas, many others will require the                      their dependence on adults.
practitioner to combine the guidance of the Code with                      I-1.5—To create and maintain safe and healthy settings
professional judgment.                                                       that foster children’s social, emotional, cognitive, and
   The ideals and principles in this Code present a                          physical development and that respect their dignity
shared framework of professional responsibility that                         and their contributions.
affirms our commitment to the core values of our field.
                                                                           I-1.6—To use assessment instruments and strategies
The Code publicly acknowledges the responsibilities
                                                                             that are appropriate for the children to be assessed,
that we in the field have assumed, and in so doing
                                                                             that are used only for the purposes for which they
supports ethical behavior in our work. Practitioners
                                                                             were designed, and that have the potential to benefit
who face situations with ethical dimensions are urged
                                                                             children.
to seek guidance in the applicable parts of this Code
                                                                           I-1.7—To use assessment information to understand
and in the spirit that informs the whole.
                                                                             and support children’s development and learning, to
   Often “the right answer”—the best ethical course of
                                                                             support instruction, and to identify children who may
action to take—is not obvious. There may be no readily
                                                                             need additional services.
apparent, positive way to handle a situation. When one
important value contradicts another, we face an ethical                    I-1.8—To support the right of each child to play and
dilemma. When we face a dilemma, it is our professional                      learn in an inclusive environment that meets the
responsibility to consult the Code and all relevant                          needs of children with and without disabilities.
parties to find the most ethical resolution.                               I-1.9—To advocate for and ensure that all children,
                                                                             including those with special needs, have access to the
                                                                             support services needed to be successful.
                                                                           I-1.10—To ensure that each child’s culture, language,
   Section I                                                                 ethnicity, and family structure are recognized and
                                                                             valued in the program.
Ethical Responsibilities to Children
                                                                           I-1.11—To provide all children with experiences in a
Childhood is a unique and valuable stage in the                              language that they know, as well as support children
human life cycle. Our paramount responsibility is to                         in maintaining the use of their home language and in
provide care and education in settings that are safe,                        learning English.
                                                                           I-1.12—To work with families to provide a safe and
                                                                             smooth transition as children and families move from
* There is not necessarily a corresponding principle for each ideal.         one program to the next.

                           Copyright © 2005 by the National Association for the Education of Young Children
NAEYC Code of Ethical Conduct                                 3                                                 Revised April 2005

Principles                                                        P-1.8—We shall be familiar with the risk factors for and
                                                                   symptoms of child abuse and neglect, including
P-1.1—Above all, we shall not harm children. We shall              physical, sexual, verbal, and emotional abuse and
 not participate in practices that are emotionally                 physical, emotional, educational, and medical neglect.
 damaging, physically harmful, disrespectful, degrad-              We shall know and follow state laws and community
 ing, dangerous, exploitative, or intimidating to                  procedures that protect children against abuse and
 children. This principle has precedence over all                  neglect.
 others in this Code.
                                                                  P-1.9—When we have reasonable cause to suspect child
P-1.2—We shall care for and educate children in                    abuse or neglect, we shall report it to the appropriate
 positive emotional and social environments that are               community agency and follow up to ensure that
 cognitively stimulating and that support each child’s             appropriate action has been taken. When appropriate,
 culture, language, ethnicity, and family structure.               parents or guardians will be informed that the referral
P-1.3—We shall not participate in practices that dis-              will be or has been made.
 criminate against children by denying benefits, giving           P-1.10—When another person tells us of his or her
 special advantages, or excluding them from programs               suspicion that a child is being abused or neglected, we
 or activities on the basis of their sex, race, national           shall assist that person in taking appropriate action in
 origin, religious beliefs, medical condition, disability,         order to protect the child.
 or the marital status/family structure, sexual orienta-
                                                                  P-1.11—When we become aware of a practice or situa-
 tion, or religious beliefs or other affiliations of their
                                                                   tion that endangers the health, safety, or well-being of
 families. (Aspects of this principle do not apply in
                                                                   children, we have an ethical responsibility to protect
 programs that have a lawful mandate to provide
                                                                   children or inform parents and/or others who can.
 services to a particular population of children.)
P-1.4—We shall involve all those with relevant knowl-
 edge (including families and staff) in decisions con-
 cerning a child, as appropriate, ensuring confidential-             Section II
 ity of sensitive information.
P-1.5—We shall use appropriate assessment systems,                Ethical Responsibilities to Families
 which include multiple sources of information, to
 provide information on children’s learning and                   Families* are of primary importance in children’s
 development.                                                     development. Because the family and the early child-
P-1.6—We shall strive to ensure that decisions such as            hood practitioner have a common interest in the child’s
 those related to enrollment, retention, or assignment            well-being, we acknowledge a primary responsibility to
 to special education services, will be based on mul-             bring about communication, cooperation, and collabo-
 tiple sources of information and will never be based             ration between the home and early childhood program
 on a single assessment, such as a test score or a single         in ways that enhance the child’s development.
 observation.
P-1.7—We shall strive to build individual relationships           Ideals
 with each child; make individualized adaptations in
                                                                  I-2.1—To be familiar with the knowledge base related to
 teaching strategies, learning environments, and
                                                                    working effectively with families and to stay informed
 curricula; and consult with the family so that each
                                                                    through continuing education and training.
 child benefits from the program. If after such efforts
 have been exhausted, the current placement does not              I-2.2—To develop relationships of mutual trust and
 meet a child’s needs, or the child is seriously jeopar-            create partnerships with the families we serve.
 dizing the ability of other children to benefit from the         I-2.3—To welcome all family members and encourage
 program, we shall collaborate with the child’s family              them to participate in the program.
 and appropriate specialists to determine the addi-
 tional services needed and/or the placement option(s)
 most likely to ensure the child’s success. (Aspects of
 this principle may not apply in programs that have a             * The term family may include those adults, besides parents, with
 lawful mandate to provide services to a particular               the responsibility of being involved in educating, nurturing, and
                                                                  advocating for the child.
 population of children.)
                       Copyright © 2005 by the National Association for the Education of Young Children
NAEYC Code of Ethical Conduct                                 4                                              Revised April 2005

I-2.4—To listen to families, acknowledge and build upon           P-2.8—We shall treat child assessment information
  their strengths and competencies, and learn from                 confidentially and share this information only when
  families as we support them in their task of nurturing           there is a legitimate need for it.
  children.                                                       P-2.9—We shall inform the family of injuries and
I-2.5—To respect the dignity and preferences of each               incidents involving their child, of risks such as expo-
  family and to make an effort to learn about its struc-           sures to communicable diseases that might result in
  ture, culture, language, customs, and beliefs.                   infection, and of occurrences that might result in
I-2.6—To acknowledge families’ childrearing values and             emotional stress.
  their right to make decisions for their children.               P-2.10—Families shall be fully informed of any pro-
I-2.7—To share information about each child’s educa-               posed research projects involving their children and
  tion and development with families and to help them              shall have the opportunity to give or withhold consent
  understand and appreciate the current knowledge                  without penalty. We shall not permit or participate in
  base of the early childhood profession.                          research that could in any way hinder the education,
I-2.8—To help family members enhance their under-                  development, or well-being of children.
  standing of their children and support the continuing           P-2.11—We shall not engage in or support exploitation
  development of their skills as parents.                          of families. We shall not use our relationship with a
I-2.9—To participate in building support networks for              family for private advantage or personal gain, or enter
  families by providing them with opportunities to                 into relationships with family members that might
  interact with program staff, other families, community           impair our effectiveness working with their children.
  resources, and professional services.                           P-2.12—We shall develop written policies for the
                                                                   protection of confidentiality and the disclosure of
                                                                   children’s records. These policy documents shall be
Principles                                                         made available to all program personnel and families.
                                                                   Disclosure of children’s records beyond family mem-
P-2.1—We shall not deny family members access to their
                                                                   bers, program personnel, and consultants having an
 child’s classroom or program setting unless access is
                                                                   obligation of confidentiality shall require familial
 denied by court order or other legal restriction.
                                                                   consent (except in cases of abuse or neglect).
P-2.2—We shall inform families of program philosophy,
                                                                  P-2.13—We shall maintain confidentiality and shall
 policies, curriculum, assessment system, and person-
                                                                   respect the family’s right to privacy, refraining from
 nel qualifications, and explain why we teach as we
                                                                   disclosure of confidential information and intrusion
 do—which should be in accordance with our ethical
                                                                   into family life. However, when we have reason to
 responsibilities to children (see Section I).
                                                                   believe that a child’s welfare is at risk, it is permissible
P-2.3—We shall inform families of and, when appropri-              to share confidential information with agencies, as
 ate, involve them in policy decisions.                            well as with individuals who have legal responsibility
P-2.4—We shall involve the family in significant deci-             for intervening in the child’s interest.
 sions affecting their child.                                     P-2.14—In cases where family members are in conflict
P-2.5—We shall make every effort to communicate                    with one another, we shall work openly, sharing our
 effectively with all families in a language that they             observations of the child, to help all parties involved
 understand. We shall use community resources for                  make informed decisions. We shall refrain from
 translation and interpretation when we do not have                becoming an advocate for one party.
 sufficient resources in our own programs.                        P-2.15—We shall be familiar with and appropriately
P-2.6—As families share information with us about their            refer families to community resources and profes-
 children and families, we shall consider this informa-            sional support services. After a referral has been
 tion to plan and implement the program.                           made, we shall follow up to ensure that services have
P-2-7—We shall inform families about the nature and                been appropriately provided.
 purpose of the program’s child assessments and how
 data about their child will be used.




                       Copyright © 2005 by the National Association for the Education of Young Children
NAEYC Code of Ethical Conduct                                 5                                             Revised April 2005

                                                                   age, marital status/family structure, disability, or
  Section III                                                      sexual orientation.

Ethical Responsibilities to Colleagues                            B—Responsibilities to employers

In a caring, cooperative workplace, human dignity is              Ideals
respected, professional satisfaction is promoted, and
positive relationships are developed and sustained.               I-3B.1—To assist the program in providing the highest
Based upon our core values, our primary responsibil-                quality of service.
ity to colleagues is to establish and maintain settings           I-3B.2—To do nothing that diminishes the reputation of
and relationships that support productive work and                  the program in which we work unless it is violating
meet professional needs. The same ideals that apply                 laws and regulations designed to protect children or is
to children also apply as we interact with adults in                violating the provisions of this Code.
the workplace.
                                                                  Principles
A—Responsibilities to co-workers
                                                                  P-3B.1—We shall follow all program policies. When we
Ideals                                                             do not agree with program policies, we shall attempt
                                                                   to effect change through constructive action within
I-3A.1—To establish and maintain relationships of                  the organization.
  respect, trust, confidentiality, collaboration, and             P-3B.2—We shall speak or act on behalf of an organiza-
  cooperation with co-workers.                                     tion only when authorized. We shall take care to
I-3A.2—To share resources with co-workers, collaborat-             acknowledge when we are speaking for the organiza-
  ing to ensure that the best possible early childhood             tion and when we are expressing a personal judgment.
  care and education program is provided.                         P-3B.3—We shall not violate laws or regulations de-
I-3A.3—To support co-workers in meeting their profes-              signed to protect children and shall take appropriate
  sional needs and in their professional development.              action consistent with this Code when aware of such
I-3A.4—To accord co-workers due recognition of                     violations.
  professional achievement.                                       P-3B.4—If we have concerns about a colleague’s
                                                                   behavior, and children’s well-being is not at risk, we
Principles                                                         may address the concern with that individual. If
                                                                   children are at risk or the situation does not improve
P-3A.1—We shall recognize the contributions of col-
                                                                   after it has been brought to the colleague’s attention,
 leagues to our program and not participate in prac-
                                                                   we shall report the colleague’s unethical or incompe-
 tices that diminish their reputations or impair their
                                                                   tent behavior to an appropriate authority.
 effectiveness in working with children and families.
                                                                  P-3B.5—When we have a concern about circumstances
P-3A.2—When we have concerns about the professional
                                                                   or conditions that impact the quality of care and
 behavior of a co-worker, we shall first let that person
                                                                   education within the program, we shall inform the
 know of our concern in a way that shows respect for
                                                                   program’s administration or, when necessary, other
 personal dignity and for the diversity to be found
                                                                   appropriate authorities.
 among staff members, and then attempt to resolve the
 matter collegially and in a confidential manner.
P-3A.3—We shall exercise care in expressing views                 C—Responsibilities to employees
 regarding the personal attributes or professional
 conduct of co-workers. Statements should be based                Ideals
 on firsthand knowledge, not hearsay, and relevant to
 the interests of children and programs.                          I-3C.1—To promote safe and healthy working condi-
P-3A.4—We shall not participate in practices that                   tions and policies that foster mutual respect, coopera-
 discriminate against a co-worker because of sex, race,             tion, collaboration, competence, well-being, confiden-
 national origin, religious beliefs or other affiliations,          tiality, and self-esteem in staff members.



                       Copyright © 2005 by the National Association for the Education of Young Children
NAEYC Code of Ethical Conduct                                 6                                             Revised April 2005

I-3C.2—To create and maintain a climate of trust and              P-3C.8—We shall not make hiring, retention, termina-
  candor that will enable staff to speak and act in the            tion, and promotion decisions based on an indivi-
  best interests of children, families, and the field of           dual’s sex, race, national origin, religious beliefs or
  early childhood care and education.                              other affiliations, age, marital status/family structure,
I-3C.3—To strive to secure adequate and equitable                  disability, or sexual orientation. We shall be familiar
  compensation (salary and benefits) for those who                 with and observe laws and regulations that pertain to
  work with or on behalf of young children.                        employment discrimination. (Aspects of this principle
I-3C.4—To encourage and support continual develop-                 do not apply to programs that have a lawful mandate
  ment of employees in becoming more skilled and                   to determine eligibility based on one or more of the
  knowledgeable practitioners.                                     criteria identified above.)
                                                                  P-3C.9—We shall maintain confidentiality in dealing
Principles                                                         with issues related to an employee’s job performance
                                                                   and shall respect an employee’s right to privacy
P-3C.1—In decisions concerning children and pro-                   regarding personal issues.
 grams, we shall draw upon the education, training,
 experience, and expertise of staff members.
P-3C.2—We shall provide staff members with safe and                 Section IV
 supportive working conditions that honor confidences
 and permit them to carry out their responsibilities              Ethical Responsibilities to Community
 through fair performance evaluation, written griev-              and Society
 ance procedures, constructive feedback, and opportu-
 nities for continuing professional development and               Early childhood programs operate within the context of
 advancement.                                                     their immediate community made up of families and
P-3C.3—We shall develop and maintain comprehensive                other institutions concerned with children’s welfare.
 written personnel policies that define program                   Our responsibilities to the community are to provide
 standards. These policies shall be given to new staff            programs that meet the diverse needs of families, to
 members and shall be available and easily accessible             cooperate with agencies and professions that share the
 for review by all staff members.                                 responsibility for children, to assist families in gaining
                                                                  access to those agencies and allied professionals, and
P-3C.4—We shall inform employees whose performance
                                                                  to assist in the development of community programs
 does not meet program expectations of areas of
                                                                  that are needed but not currently available.
 concern and, when possible, assist in improving their
                                                                     As individuals, we acknowledge our responsibility to
 performance.
                                                                  provide the best possible programs of care and educa-
P-3C.5—We shall conduct employee dismissals for just              tion for children and to conduct ourselves with honesty
 cause, in accordance with all applicable laws and                and integrity. Because of our specialized expertise in
 regulations. We shall inform employees who are                   early childhood development and education and
 dismissed of the reasons for their termination. When a           because the larger society shares responsibility for the
 dismissal is for cause, justification must be based on           welfare and protection of young children, we acknowl-
 evidence of inadequate or inappropriate behavior that            edge a collective obligation to advocate for the best
 is accurately documented, current, and available for             interests of children within early childhood programs
 the employee to review.                                          and in the larger community and to serve as a voice for
P-3C.6—In making evaluations and recommendations,                 young children everywhere.
 we shall make judgments based on fact and relevant to               The ideals and principles in this section are pre-
 the interests of children and programs.                          sented to distinguish between those that pertain to the
P-3C.7—We shall make hiring, retention, termination,              work of the individual early childhood educator and
 and promotion decisions based solely on a person’s               those that more typically are engaged in collectively on
 competence, record of accomplishment, ability to                 behalf of the best interests of children—with the
 carry out the responsibilities of the position, and              understanding that individual early childhood educa-
 professional preparation specific to the developmental           tors have a shared responsibility for addressing the
 levels of children in his/her care.                              ideals and principles that are identified as “collective.”


                       Copyright © 2005 by the National Association for the Education of Young Children
NAEYC Code of Ethical Conduct                                    7                                            Revised April 2005

Ideal (Individual)                                                    do not have the competence, qualifications, or re-
                                                                      sources to provide.
1-4.1—To provide the community with high-quality
                                                                     P-4.3—We shall carefully check references and shall not
 early childhood care and education programs and
                                                                      hire or recommend for employment any person whose
 services.
                                                                      competence, qualifications, or character makes him or
                                                                      her unsuited for the position.
Ideals (Collective)
                                                                     P-4.4—We shall be objective and accurate in reporting
I-4.2—To promote cooperation among professionals                      the knowledge upon which we base our program
  and agencies and interdisciplinary collaboration                    practices.
  among professions concerned with addressing issues                 P-4.5—We shall be knowledgeable about the appropri-
  in the health, education, and well-being of young                   ate use of assessment strategies and instruments and
  children, their families, and their early childhood                 interpret results accurately to families.
  educators.                                                         P-4.6—We shall be familiar with laws and regulations
I-4.3—To work through education, research, and                        that serve to protect the children in our programs and
  advocacy toward an environmentally safe world in                    be vigilant in ensuring that these laws and regulations
  which all children receive health care, food, and                   are followed.
  shelter; are nurtured; and live free from violence in              P-4.7—When we become aware of a practice or situa-
  their home and their communities.                                   tion that endangers the health, safety, or well-being of
I-4.4—To work through education, research, and                        children, we have an ethical responsibility to protect
  advocacy toward a society in which all young children               children or inform parents and/or others who can.
  have access to high-quality early care and education               P-4.8—We shall not participate in practices that are in
  programs.                                                           violation of laws and regulations that protect the
I-4.5—To work to ensure that appropriate assessment                   children in our programs.
  systems, which include multiple sources of informa-                P-4.9—When we have evidence that an early childhood
  tion, are used for purposes that benefit children.                  program is violating laws or regulations protecting
I-4.6—To promote knowledge and understanding of                       children, we shall report the violation to appropriate
  young children and their needs. To work toward                      authorities who can be expected to remedy the
  greater societal acknowledgment of children’s rights                situation.
  and greater social acceptance of responsibility for the            P-4.10—When a program violates or requires its
  well-being of all children.                                         employees to violate this Code, it is permissible, after
I-4.7—To support policies and laws that promote the                   fair assessment of the evidence, to disclose the
  well-being of children and families, and to work to                 identity of that program.
  change those that impair their well-being. To partici-
  pate in developing policies and laws that are needed,              Principles (Collective)
  and to cooperate with other individuals and groups in
  these efforts.                                                     P-4.11—When policies are enacted for purposes that do
I-4.8—To further the professional development of the                  not benefit children, we have a collective responsibil-
  field of early childhood care and education and to                  ity to work to change these practices.
  strengthen its commitment to realizing its core values             P-4-12—When we have evidence that an agency that
  as reflected in this Code.                                          provides services intended to ensure children’s well-
                                                                      being is failing to meet its obligations, we acknowl-
Principles (Individual)                                               edge a collective ethical responsibility to report the
                                                                      problem to appropriate authorities or to the public.
P-4.1—We shall communicate openly and truthfully                      We shall be vigilant in our follow-up until the situation
 about the nature and extent of services that we                      is resolved.
 provide.                                                            P-4.13—When a child protection agency fails to provide
P-4.2—We shall apply for, accept, and work in positions               adequate protection for abused or neglected children,
 for which we are personally well-suited and profes-                  we acknowledge a collective ethical responsibility to
 sionally qualified. We shall not offer services that we              work toward the improvement of these services.


                          Copyright © 2005 by the National Association for the Education of Young Children
NAEYC Code of Ethical Conduct                                  8                                                   Revised April 2005



                             Glossary of Terms Related to Ethics
  Code of Ethics. Defines the core values of the field               extends and enhances the personal morality
   and provides guidance for what professionals                      practitioners bring to their work, that concern
   should do when they encounter conflicting obliga-                 actions of right and wrong in the workplace, and
   tions or responsibilities in their work.                          that help individuals resolve moral dilemmas they
                                                                     encounter in their work.
  Values. Qualities or principles that individuals believe
   to be desirable or worthwhile and that they prize               Ethical Responsibilities. Behaviors that one must or
   for themselves, for others, and for the world in                  must not engage in. Ethical responsibilities are
   which they live.                                                  clear-cut and are spelled out in the Code of Ethical
                                                                     Conduct (for example, early childhood educators
  Core Values. Commitments held by a profession that
                                                                     should never share confidential information about a
   are consciously and knowingly embraced by its
                                                                     child or family with a person who has no legitimate
   practitioners because they make a contribution to
                                                                     need for knowing).
   society. There is a difference between personal
   values and the core values of a profession.                     Ethical Dilemma. A moral conflict that involves
                                                                     determining appropriate conduct when an indi-
  Morality. Peoples’ views of what is good, right, and
                                                                     vidual faces conflicting professional values and
   proper; their beliefs about their obligations; and
                                                                     responsibilities.
   their ideas about how they should behave.
  Ethics. The study of right and wrong, or duty and
    obligation, that involves critical reflection on               Sources for glossary terms and definitions
    morality and the ability to make choices between               Feeney, S., & N. Freeman. 1999. Ethics and the early childhood
    values and the examination of the moral dimensions               educator: Using the NAEYC code. Washington, DC: NAEYC.
    of relationships.                                              Kidder, R.M. 1995. How good people make tough choices:
                                                                     Resolving the dilemmas of ethical living. New York: Fireside.
  Professional Ethics. The moral commitments of a                  Kipnis, K. 1987. How to discuss professional ethics. Young
   profession that involve moral reflection that                     Children 42 (4): 26–30.




   The National Association for the Education of Young             manner, based on currently available data. However,
Children (NAEYC) is a nonprofit corporation, tax exempt            further research or developments may change the current
under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code,              state of knowledge. Neither NAEYC nor its officers,
dedicated to acting on behalf of the needs and interests of        directors, members, employees, or agents will be liable
young children. The NAEYC Code of Ethical Conduct                  for any loss, damage, or claim with respect to any liabili-
(Code) has been developed in furtherance of NAEYC’s                ties, including direct, special, indirect, or consequential
nonprofit and tax exempt purposes. The information con-            damages incurred in connection with the Code or reliance
tained in the Code is intended to provide early childhood          on the information presented.
educators with guidelines for working with children from
birth through age 8.
   An individual’s or program’s use, reference to, or review                    NAEYC Code of Ethical Conduct
of the Code does not guarantee compliance with NAEYC                                Revisions Workgroup
Early Childhood Program Standards and Accreditation
Performance Criteria and program accreditation proce-                   Mary Ambery, Ruth Ann Ball, James Clay, Julie
dures. It is recommended that the Code be used as guid-                 Olsen Edwards, Harriet Egertson, Anthony Fair,
ance in connection with implementation of the NAEYC                     Stephanie Feeney, Jana Fleming, Nancy Freeman,
Program Standards, but such use is not a substitute for                 Marla Israel, Allison McKinnon, Evelyn Wright
diligent review and application of the NAEYC Program                    Moore, Eva Moravcik, Christina Lopez Morgan,
Standards.                                                              Sarah Mulligan, Nila Rinehart, Betty Holston
   NAEYC has taken reasonable measures to develop the                   Smith, and Peter Pizzolongo, NAEYC Staff
Code in a fair, reasonable, open, unbiased, and objective


                        Copyright © 2005 by the National Association for the Education of Young Children
NAEYC Code of Ethical Conduct                                  9                                                   Revised April 2005




                                   Statement of Commitment*
               As an individual who works with young children, I commit myself to furthering the
               values of early childhood education as they are reflected in the ideals and prin-
               ciples of the NAEYC Code of Ethical Conduct. To the best of my ability I will

               • Never harm children.
               • Ensure that programs for young children are based on current knowledge and
                 research of child development and early childhood education.
               • Respect and support families in their task of nurturing children.
               • Respect colleagues in early childhood care and education and support them in
                 maintaining the NAEYC Code of Ethical Conduct.
               • Serve as an advocate for children, their families, and their teachers in commu-
                 nity and society.
               • Stay informed of and maintain high standards of professional conduct.
               • Engage in an ongoing process of self-reflection, realizing that personal character-
                 istics, biases, and beliefs have an impact on children and families.
               • Be open to new ideas and be willing to learn from the suggestions of others.
               • Continue to learn, grow, and contribute as a professional.
               • Honor the ideals and principles of the NAEYC Code of Ethical Conduct.



               * This Statement of Commitment is not part of the Code but is a personal acknowledgment of
               the individual’s willingness to embrace the distinctive values and moral obligations of the field
               of early childhood care and education. It is recognition of the moral obligations that lead to an
               individual becoming part of the profession.




                        Copyright © 2005 by the National Association for the Education of Young Children

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Code of ethical conduct statement

  • 1. NAEYC Code of Ethical Conduct 1 Revised April 2005 POSITION STATEMENT naeyc Code of Ethical Conduct and Statement of Commitment Revised April 2005 A position statement of the National Association for the Education of Young Children Endorsed by the Association for Childhood Education International Adopted by the National Association for Family Child Care Preamble Core values NAEYC recognizes that those who work with young Standards of ethical behavior in early childhood care and education are based on commitment to the follow- children face many daily decisions that have moral and ing core values that are deeply rooted in the history of ethical implications. The NAEYC Code of Ethical the field of early childhood care and education. We Conduct offers guidelines for responsible behavior and have made a commitment to sets forth a common basis for resolving the principal • Appreciate childhood as a unique and valuable stage ethical dilemmas encountered in early childhood care and of the human life cycle education. The Statement of Commitment is not part of the Code but is a personal acknowledgement of an • Base our work on knowledge of how children develop individual’s willingness to embrace the distinctive values and learn and moral obligations of the field of early childhood care • Appreciate and support the bond between the child and education. and family The primary focus of the Code is on daily practice with • Recognize that children are best understood and children and their families in programs for children from supported in the context of family, culture,* community, birth through 8 years of age, such as infant/toddler and society programs, preschool and prekindergarten programs, child • Respect the dignity, worth, and uniqueness of each care centers, hospital and child life settings, family child individual (child, family member, and colleague) care homes, kindergartens, and primary classrooms. • Respect diversity in children, families, and colleagues When the issues involve young children, then these • Recognize that children and adults achieve their full provisions also apply to specialists who do not work potential in the context of relationships that are based directly with children, including program administrators, on trust and respect parent educators, early childhood adult educators, and officials with responsibility for program monitoring and * The term culture includes ethnicity, racial identity, economic licensing. (Note: See also the “Code of Ethical Conduct: level, family structure, language, and religious and political Supplement for Early Childhood Adult Educators,” online beliefs, which profoundly influence each child’s development at www.naeyc.org/about/positions/pdf/ethics04.pdf.) and relationship to the world. Copyright © 2005 by the National Association for the Education of Young Children
  • 2. NAEYC Code of Ethical Conduct 2 Revised April 2005 Conceptual framework healthy, nurturing, and responsive for each child. We are committed to supporting children’s development The Code sets forth a framework of professional respon- and learning; respecting individual differences; and sibilities in four sections. Each section addresses an helping children learn to live, play, and work coop- area of professional relationships: (1) with children, (2) eratively. We are also committed to promoting with families, (3) among colleagues, and (4) with the children’s self-awareness, competence, self-worth, community and society. Each section includes an intro- resiliency, and physical well-being. duction to the primary responsibilities of the early child- hood practitioner in that context. The introduction is Ideals followed by a set of ideals (I) that reflect exemplary I-1.1—To be familiar with the knowledge base of early professional practice and by a set of principles (P) de- childhood care and education and to stay informed scribing practices that are required, prohibited, or per- through continuing education and training. mitted. The ideals reflect the aspirations of practitioners. I-1.2—To base program practices upon current knowl- The principles guide conduct and assist practitioners edge and research in the field of early childhood in resolving ethical dilemmas.* Both ideals and prin- education, child development, and related disciplines, ciples are intended to direct practitioners to those as well as on particular knowledge of each child. questions which, when responsibly answered, can I-1.3—To recognize and respect the unique qualities, provide the basis for conscientious decision making. abilities, and potential of each child. While the Code provides specific direction for address- I-1.4—To appreciate the vulnerability of children and ing some ethical dilemmas, many others will require the their dependence on adults. practitioner to combine the guidance of the Code with I-1.5—To create and maintain safe and healthy settings professional judgment. that foster children’s social, emotional, cognitive, and The ideals and principles in this Code present a physical development and that respect their dignity shared framework of professional responsibility that and their contributions. affirms our commitment to the core values of our field. I-1.6—To use assessment instruments and strategies The Code publicly acknowledges the responsibilities that are appropriate for the children to be assessed, that we in the field have assumed, and in so doing that are used only for the purposes for which they supports ethical behavior in our work. Practitioners were designed, and that have the potential to benefit who face situations with ethical dimensions are urged children. to seek guidance in the applicable parts of this Code I-1.7—To use assessment information to understand and in the spirit that informs the whole. and support children’s development and learning, to Often “the right answer”—the best ethical course of support instruction, and to identify children who may action to take—is not obvious. There may be no readily need additional services. apparent, positive way to handle a situation. When one important value contradicts another, we face an ethical I-1.8—To support the right of each child to play and dilemma. When we face a dilemma, it is our professional learn in an inclusive environment that meets the responsibility to consult the Code and all relevant needs of children with and without disabilities. parties to find the most ethical resolution. I-1.9—To advocate for and ensure that all children, including those with special needs, have access to the support services needed to be successful. I-1.10—To ensure that each child’s culture, language, Section I ethnicity, and family structure are recognized and valued in the program. Ethical Responsibilities to Children I-1.11—To provide all children with experiences in a Childhood is a unique and valuable stage in the language that they know, as well as support children human life cycle. Our paramount responsibility is to in maintaining the use of their home language and in provide care and education in settings that are safe, learning English. I-1.12—To work with families to provide a safe and smooth transition as children and families move from * There is not necessarily a corresponding principle for each ideal. one program to the next. Copyright © 2005 by the National Association for the Education of Young Children
  • 3. NAEYC Code of Ethical Conduct 3 Revised April 2005 Principles P-1.8—We shall be familiar with the risk factors for and symptoms of child abuse and neglect, including P-1.1—Above all, we shall not harm children. We shall physical, sexual, verbal, and emotional abuse and not participate in practices that are emotionally physical, emotional, educational, and medical neglect. damaging, physically harmful, disrespectful, degrad- We shall know and follow state laws and community ing, dangerous, exploitative, or intimidating to procedures that protect children against abuse and children. This principle has precedence over all neglect. others in this Code. P-1.9—When we have reasonable cause to suspect child P-1.2—We shall care for and educate children in abuse or neglect, we shall report it to the appropriate positive emotional and social environments that are community agency and follow up to ensure that cognitively stimulating and that support each child’s appropriate action has been taken. When appropriate, culture, language, ethnicity, and family structure. parents or guardians will be informed that the referral P-1.3—We shall not participate in practices that dis- will be or has been made. criminate against children by denying benefits, giving P-1.10—When another person tells us of his or her special advantages, or excluding them from programs suspicion that a child is being abused or neglected, we or activities on the basis of their sex, race, national shall assist that person in taking appropriate action in origin, religious beliefs, medical condition, disability, order to protect the child. or the marital status/family structure, sexual orienta- P-1.11—When we become aware of a practice or situa- tion, or religious beliefs or other affiliations of their tion that endangers the health, safety, or well-being of families. (Aspects of this principle do not apply in children, we have an ethical responsibility to protect programs that have a lawful mandate to provide children or inform parents and/or others who can. services to a particular population of children.) P-1.4—We shall involve all those with relevant knowl- edge (including families and staff) in decisions con- cerning a child, as appropriate, ensuring confidential- Section II ity of sensitive information. P-1.5—We shall use appropriate assessment systems, Ethical Responsibilities to Families which include multiple sources of information, to provide information on children’s learning and Families* are of primary importance in children’s development. development. Because the family and the early child- P-1.6—We shall strive to ensure that decisions such as hood practitioner have a common interest in the child’s those related to enrollment, retention, or assignment well-being, we acknowledge a primary responsibility to to special education services, will be based on mul- bring about communication, cooperation, and collabo- tiple sources of information and will never be based ration between the home and early childhood program on a single assessment, such as a test score or a single in ways that enhance the child’s development. observation. P-1.7—We shall strive to build individual relationships Ideals with each child; make individualized adaptations in I-2.1—To be familiar with the knowledge base related to teaching strategies, learning environments, and working effectively with families and to stay informed curricula; and consult with the family so that each through continuing education and training. child benefits from the program. If after such efforts have been exhausted, the current placement does not I-2.2—To develop relationships of mutual trust and meet a child’s needs, or the child is seriously jeopar- create partnerships with the families we serve. dizing the ability of other children to benefit from the I-2.3—To welcome all family members and encourage program, we shall collaborate with the child’s family them to participate in the program. and appropriate specialists to determine the addi- tional services needed and/or the placement option(s) most likely to ensure the child’s success. (Aspects of this principle may not apply in programs that have a * The term family may include those adults, besides parents, with lawful mandate to provide services to a particular the responsibility of being involved in educating, nurturing, and advocating for the child. population of children.) Copyright © 2005 by the National Association for the Education of Young Children
  • 4. NAEYC Code of Ethical Conduct 4 Revised April 2005 I-2.4—To listen to families, acknowledge and build upon P-2.8—We shall treat child assessment information their strengths and competencies, and learn from confidentially and share this information only when families as we support them in their task of nurturing there is a legitimate need for it. children. P-2.9—We shall inform the family of injuries and I-2.5—To respect the dignity and preferences of each incidents involving their child, of risks such as expo- family and to make an effort to learn about its struc- sures to communicable diseases that might result in ture, culture, language, customs, and beliefs. infection, and of occurrences that might result in I-2.6—To acknowledge families’ childrearing values and emotional stress. their right to make decisions for their children. P-2.10—Families shall be fully informed of any pro- I-2.7—To share information about each child’s educa- posed research projects involving their children and tion and development with families and to help them shall have the opportunity to give or withhold consent understand and appreciate the current knowledge without penalty. We shall not permit or participate in base of the early childhood profession. research that could in any way hinder the education, I-2.8—To help family members enhance their under- development, or well-being of children. standing of their children and support the continuing P-2.11—We shall not engage in or support exploitation development of their skills as parents. of families. We shall not use our relationship with a I-2.9—To participate in building support networks for family for private advantage or personal gain, or enter families by providing them with opportunities to into relationships with family members that might interact with program staff, other families, community impair our effectiveness working with their children. resources, and professional services. P-2.12—We shall develop written policies for the protection of confidentiality and the disclosure of children’s records. These policy documents shall be Principles made available to all program personnel and families. Disclosure of children’s records beyond family mem- P-2.1—We shall not deny family members access to their bers, program personnel, and consultants having an child’s classroom or program setting unless access is obligation of confidentiality shall require familial denied by court order or other legal restriction. consent (except in cases of abuse or neglect). P-2.2—We shall inform families of program philosophy, P-2.13—We shall maintain confidentiality and shall policies, curriculum, assessment system, and person- respect the family’s right to privacy, refraining from nel qualifications, and explain why we teach as we disclosure of confidential information and intrusion do—which should be in accordance with our ethical into family life. However, when we have reason to responsibilities to children (see Section I). believe that a child’s welfare is at risk, it is permissible P-2.3—We shall inform families of and, when appropri- to share confidential information with agencies, as ate, involve them in policy decisions. well as with individuals who have legal responsibility P-2.4—We shall involve the family in significant deci- for intervening in the child’s interest. sions affecting their child. P-2.14—In cases where family members are in conflict P-2.5—We shall make every effort to communicate with one another, we shall work openly, sharing our effectively with all families in a language that they observations of the child, to help all parties involved understand. We shall use community resources for make informed decisions. We shall refrain from translation and interpretation when we do not have becoming an advocate for one party. sufficient resources in our own programs. P-2.15—We shall be familiar with and appropriately P-2.6—As families share information with us about their refer families to community resources and profes- children and families, we shall consider this informa- sional support services. After a referral has been tion to plan and implement the program. made, we shall follow up to ensure that services have P-2-7—We shall inform families about the nature and been appropriately provided. purpose of the program’s child assessments and how data about their child will be used. Copyright © 2005 by the National Association for the Education of Young Children
  • 5. NAEYC Code of Ethical Conduct 5 Revised April 2005 age, marital status/family structure, disability, or Section III sexual orientation. Ethical Responsibilities to Colleagues B—Responsibilities to employers In a caring, cooperative workplace, human dignity is Ideals respected, professional satisfaction is promoted, and positive relationships are developed and sustained. I-3B.1—To assist the program in providing the highest Based upon our core values, our primary responsibil- quality of service. ity to colleagues is to establish and maintain settings I-3B.2—To do nothing that diminishes the reputation of and relationships that support productive work and the program in which we work unless it is violating meet professional needs. The same ideals that apply laws and regulations designed to protect children or is to children also apply as we interact with adults in violating the provisions of this Code. the workplace. Principles A—Responsibilities to co-workers P-3B.1—We shall follow all program policies. When we Ideals do not agree with program policies, we shall attempt to effect change through constructive action within I-3A.1—To establish and maintain relationships of the organization. respect, trust, confidentiality, collaboration, and P-3B.2—We shall speak or act on behalf of an organiza- cooperation with co-workers. tion only when authorized. We shall take care to I-3A.2—To share resources with co-workers, collaborat- acknowledge when we are speaking for the organiza- ing to ensure that the best possible early childhood tion and when we are expressing a personal judgment. care and education program is provided. P-3B.3—We shall not violate laws or regulations de- I-3A.3—To support co-workers in meeting their profes- signed to protect children and shall take appropriate sional needs and in their professional development. action consistent with this Code when aware of such I-3A.4—To accord co-workers due recognition of violations. professional achievement. P-3B.4—If we have concerns about a colleague’s behavior, and children’s well-being is not at risk, we Principles may address the concern with that individual. If children are at risk or the situation does not improve P-3A.1—We shall recognize the contributions of col- after it has been brought to the colleague’s attention, leagues to our program and not participate in prac- we shall report the colleague’s unethical or incompe- tices that diminish their reputations or impair their tent behavior to an appropriate authority. effectiveness in working with children and families. P-3B.5—When we have a concern about circumstances P-3A.2—When we have concerns about the professional or conditions that impact the quality of care and behavior of a co-worker, we shall first let that person education within the program, we shall inform the know of our concern in a way that shows respect for program’s administration or, when necessary, other personal dignity and for the diversity to be found appropriate authorities. among staff members, and then attempt to resolve the matter collegially and in a confidential manner. P-3A.3—We shall exercise care in expressing views C—Responsibilities to employees regarding the personal attributes or professional conduct of co-workers. Statements should be based Ideals on firsthand knowledge, not hearsay, and relevant to the interests of children and programs. I-3C.1—To promote safe and healthy working condi- P-3A.4—We shall not participate in practices that tions and policies that foster mutual respect, coopera- discriminate against a co-worker because of sex, race, tion, collaboration, competence, well-being, confiden- national origin, religious beliefs or other affiliations, tiality, and self-esteem in staff members. Copyright © 2005 by the National Association for the Education of Young Children
  • 6. NAEYC Code of Ethical Conduct 6 Revised April 2005 I-3C.2—To create and maintain a climate of trust and P-3C.8—We shall not make hiring, retention, termina- candor that will enable staff to speak and act in the tion, and promotion decisions based on an indivi- best interests of children, families, and the field of dual’s sex, race, national origin, religious beliefs or early childhood care and education. other affiliations, age, marital status/family structure, I-3C.3—To strive to secure adequate and equitable disability, or sexual orientation. We shall be familiar compensation (salary and benefits) for those who with and observe laws and regulations that pertain to work with or on behalf of young children. employment discrimination. (Aspects of this principle I-3C.4—To encourage and support continual develop- do not apply to programs that have a lawful mandate ment of employees in becoming more skilled and to determine eligibility based on one or more of the knowledgeable practitioners. criteria identified above.) P-3C.9—We shall maintain confidentiality in dealing Principles with issues related to an employee’s job performance and shall respect an employee’s right to privacy P-3C.1—In decisions concerning children and pro- regarding personal issues. grams, we shall draw upon the education, training, experience, and expertise of staff members. P-3C.2—We shall provide staff members with safe and Section IV supportive working conditions that honor confidences and permit them to carry out their responsibilities Ethical Responsibilities to Community through fair performance evaluation, written griev- and Society ance procedures, constructive feedback, and opportu- nities for continuing professional development and Early childhood programs operate within the context of advancement. their immediate community made up of families and P-3C.3—We shall develop and maintain comprehensive other institutions concerned with children’s welfare. written personnel policies that define program Our responsibilities to the community are to provide standards. These policies shall be given to new staff programs that meet the diverse needs of families, to members and shall be available and easily accessible cooperate with agencies and professions that share the for review by all staff members. responsibility for children, to assist families in gaining access to those agencies and allied professionals, and P-3C.4—We shall inform employees whose performance to assist in the development of community programs does not meet program expectations of areas of that are needed but not currently available. concern and, when possible, assist in improving their As individuals, we acknowledge our responsibility to performance. provide the best possible programs of care and educa- P-3C.5—We shall conduct employee dismissals for just tion for children and to conduct ourselves with honesty cause, in accordance with all applicable laws and and integrity. Because of our specialized expertise in regulations. We shall inform employees who are early childhood development and education and dismissed of the reasons for their termination. When a because the larger society shares responsibility for the dismissal is for cause, justification must be based on welfare and protection of young children, we acknowl- evidence of inadequate or inappropriate behavior that edge a collective obligation to advocate for the best is accurately documented, current, and available for interests of children within early childhood programs the employee to review. and in the larger community and to serve as a voice for P-3C.6—In making evaluations and recommendations, young children everywhere. we shall make judgments based on fact and relevant to The ideals and principles in this section are pre- the interests of children and programs. sented to distinguish between those that pertain to the P-3C.7—We shall make hiring, retention, termination, work of the individual early childhood educator and and promotion decisions based solely on a person’s those that more typically are engaged in collectively on competence, record of accomplishment, ability to behalf of the best interests of children—with the carry out the responsibilities of the position, and understanding that individual early childhood educa- professional preparation specific to the developmental tors have a shared responsibility for addressing the levels of children in his/her care. ideals and principles that are identified as “collective.” Copyright © 2005 by the National Association for the Education of Young Children
  • 7. NAEYC Code of Ethical Conduct 7 Revised April 2005 Ideal (Individual) do not have the competence, qualifications, or re- sources to provide. 1-4.1—To provide the community with high-quality P-4.3—We shall carefully check references and shall not early childhood care and education programs and hire or recommend for employment any person whose services. competence, qualifications, or character makes him or her unsuited for the position. Ideals (Collective) P-4.4—We shall be objective and accurate in reporting I-4.2—To promote cooperation among professionals the knowledge upon which we base our program and agencies and interdisciplinary collaboration practices. among professions concerned with addressing issues P-4.5—We shall be knowledgeable about the appropri- in the health, education, and well-being of young ate use of assessment strategies and instruments and children, their families, and their early childhood interpret results accurately to families. educators. P-4.6—We shall be familiar with laws and regulations I-4.3—To work through education, research, and that serve to protect the children in our programs and advocacy toward an environmentally safe world in be vigilant in ensuring that these laws and regulations which all children receive health care, food, and are followed. shelter; are nurtured; and live free from violence in P-4.7—When we become aware of a practice or situa- their home and their communities. tion that endangers the health, safety, or well-being of I-4.4—To work through education, research, and children, we have an ethical responsibility to protect advocacy toward a society in which all young children children or inform parents and/or others who can. have access to high-quality early care and education P-4.8—We shall not participate in practices that are in programs. violation of laws and regulations that protect the I-4.5—To work to ensure that appropriate assessment children in our programs. systems, which include multiple sources of informa- P-4.9—When we have evidence that an early childhood tion, are used for purposes that benefit children. program is violating laws or regulations protecting I-4.6—To promote knowledge and understanding of children, we shall report the violation to appropriate young children and their needs. To work toward authorities who can be expected to remedy the greater societal acknowledgment of children’s rights situation. and greater social acceptance of responsibility for the P-4.10—When a program violates or requires its well-being of all children. employees to violate this Code, it is permissible, after I-4.7—To support policies and laws that promote the fair assessment of the evidence, to disclose the well-being of children and families, and to work to identity of that program. change those that impair their well-being. To partici- pate in developing policies and laws that are needed, Principles (Collective) and to cooperate with other individuals and groups in these efforts. P-4.11—When policies are enacted for purposes that do I-4.8—To further the professional development of the not benefit children, we have a collective responsibil- field of early childhood care and education and to ity to work to change these practices. strengthen its commitment to realizing its core values P-4-12—When we have evidence that an agency that as reflected in this Code. provides services intended to ensure children’s well- being is failing to meet its obligations, we acknowl- Principles (Individual) edge a collective ethical responsibility to report the problem to appropriate authorities or to the public. P-4.1—We shall communicate openly and truthfully We shall be vigilant in our follow-up until the situation about the nature and extent of services that we is resolved. provide. P-4.13—When a child protection agency fails to provide P-4.2—We shall apply for, accept, and work in positions adequate protection for abused or neglected children, for which we are personally well-suited and profes- we acknowledge a collective ethical responsibility to sionally qualified. We shall not offer services that we work toward the improvement of these services. Copyright © 2005 by the National Association for the Education of Young Children
  • 8. NAEYC Code of Ethical Conduct 8 Revised April 2005 Glossary of Terms Related to Ethics Code of Ethics. Defines the core values of the field extends and enhances the personal morality and provides guidance for what professionals practitioners bring to their work, that concern should do when they encounter conflicting obliga- actions of right and wrong in the workplace, and tions or responsibilities in their work. that help individuals resolve moral dilemmas they encounter in their work. Values. Qualities or principles that individuals believe to be desirable or worthwhile and that they prize Ethical Responsibilities. Behaviors that one must or for themselves, for others, and for the world in must not engage in. Ethical responsibilities are which they live. clear-cut and are spelled out in the Code of Ethical Conduct (for example, early childhood educators Core Values. Commitments held by a profession that should never share confidential information about a are consciously and knowingly embraced by its child or family with a person who has no legitimate practitioners because they make a contribution to need for knowing). society. There is a difference between personal values and the core values of a profession. Ethical Dilemma. A moral conflict that involves determining appropriate conduct when an indi- Morality. Peoples’ views of what is good, right, and vidual faces conflicting professional values and proper; their beliefs about their obligations; and responsibilities. their ideas about how they should behave. Ethics. The study of right and wrong, or duty and obligation, that involves critical reflection on Sources for glossary terms and definitions morality and the ability to make choices between Feeney, S., & N. Freeman. 1999. Ethics and the early childhood values and the examination of the moral dimensions educator: Using the NAEYC code. Washington, DC: NAEYC. of relationships. Kidder, R.M. 1995. How good people make tough choices: Resolving the dilemmas of ethical living. New York: Fireside. Professional Ethics. The moral commitments of a Kipnis, K. 1987. How to discuss professional ethics. Young profession that involve moral reflection that Children 42 (4): 26–30. The National Association for the Education of Young manner, based on currently available data. However, Children (NAEYC) is a nonprofit corporation, tax exempt further research or developments may change the current under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code, state of knowledge. Neither NAEYC nor its officers, dedicated to acting on behalf of the needs and interests of directors, members, employees, or agents will be liable young children. The NAEYC Code of Ethical Conduct for any loss, damage, or claim with respect to any liabili- (Code) has been developed in furtherance of NAEYC’s ties, including direct, special, indirect, or consequential nonprofit and tax exempt purposes. The information con- damages incurred in connection with the Code or reliance tained in the Code is intended to provide early childhood on the information presented. educators with guidelines for working with children from birth through age 8. An individual’s or program’s use, reference to, or review NAEYC Code of Ethical Conduct of the Code does not guarantee compliance with NAEYC Revisions Workgroup Early Childhood Program Standards and Accreditation Performance Criteria and program accreditation proce- Mary Ambery, Ruth Ann Ball, James Clay, Julie dures. It is recommended that the Code be used as guid- Olsen Edwards, Harriet Egertson, Anthony Fair, ance in connection with implementation of the NAEYC Stephanie Feeney, Jana Fleming, Nancy Freeman, Program Standards, but such use is not a substitute for Marla Israel, Allison McKinnon, Evelyn Wright diligent review and application of the NAEYC Program Moore, Eva Moravcik, Christina Lopez Morgan, Standards. Sarah Mulligan, Nila Rinehart, Betty Holston NAEYC has taken reasonable measures to develop the Smith, and Peter Pizzolongo, NAEYC Staff Code in a fair, reasonable, open, unbiased, and objective Copyright © 2005 by the National Association for the Education of Young Children
  • 9. NAEYC Code of Ethical Conduct 9 Revised April 2005 Statement of Commitment* As an individual who works with young children, I commit myself to furthering the values of early childhood education as they are reflected in the ideals and prin- ciples of the NAEYC Code of Ethical Conduct. To the best of my ability I will • Never harm children. • Ensure that programs for young children are based on current knowledge and research of child development and early childhood education. • Respect and support families in their task of nurturing children. • Respect colleagues in early childhood care and education and support them in maintaining the NAEYC Code of Ethical Conduct. • Serve as an advocate for children, their families, and their teachers in commu- nity and society. • Stay informed of and maintain high standards of professional conduct. • Engage in an ongoing process of self-reflection, realizing that personal character- istics, biases, and beliefs have an impact on children and families. • Be open to new ideas and be willing to learn from the suggestions of others. • Continue to learn, grow, and contribute as a professional. • Honor the ideals and principles of the NAEYC Code of Ethical Conduct. * This Statement of Commitment is not part of the Code but is a personal acknowledgment of the individual’s willingness to embrace the distinctive values and moral obligations of the field of early childhood care and education. It is recognition of the moral obligations that lead to an individual becoming part of the profession. Copyright © 2005 by the National Association for the Education of Young Children