Professionalism

"Professional Ethics helps us as early childhood educators to think about our responsibilities towards children, families, communities and society..." -NAEYC

Self
It is important to conducting oneself in away that allows one to preform ones job to the best of ones ability. It is also vital to treat others with respect and to have discernment and understanding for ones own boundaries and the boundaries of others. Its also necessary to know and understand ones triggers so that one can be present and handle adversity with grace and poise. 

Others
In supporting staff members, its important to maintain boundaries to avoid any perceived nepotism. These boundaries will maintain harmony in the class room and break areas as it encourages everyone to work together and to participate equally. It is also important to maintain a pleasant and friendly attitude towards each other and resolve conflict promptly and peacefully.  

Families and caretakers                                                                                                                      It is important to remember that the parents and caretakers are the child's first teachers. These roles must be respected for an effective teacher/parent  and teacher/ caretaker  relationship to develop. Through mutual respect an open line of communication can be maintained and the teacher can be seen as a resource to the parents or caretakers. While different households will have different views we must maintain our professionalism through compassion and understanding while maintaining the values of the school.

Children 
Each child is unique and should be valued as an individual with gifts and talents. The educator's tone should be kind, pleasant and patient to allow for the child to feel safe as they learn and progress. Positive discipline, redirection and teaching children self-regulation is a way to resolve conflict successfully.

Superiors 
Maintain rapport with superiors through open and honest communication while adhering to boundaries. Receiving direction and constructive criticism with openness and grace and responding accordingly. While presenting new ideas make sure to present  them with respect. 

Commitment to professionalism in education can be reached through consistent interpersonal rapport, communication skills along with demonstrating respect for one values and understanding the values of others. 



                                                                        References

Feeney, S.(2014) Ethics today in early care and education: review, reflection, and the future retrieved from http://www.naeyc.org/files/yc/file/201003/FeeneyWeb0310.pdf