Examining Codes of Ethics

I-1.8—To support the right of each child to play and

learn in an inclusive environment that meets the

needs of children with and without disabilities.

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.

II. PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT AND PREPARATION is critical to providing the most effective services for young children with disabilities and their families. Professional development is viewed and valued as an ongoing process guided by high standards and competencies for professional performance and practice.

Professionals acquire the knowledge, skills, and dispositions to work with a variety of young children with

disabilities and their families within natural and inclusive environments promoting children’s overall growth, development and learning, and enhancing family quality of life. Finally, professionals continually should seek and interpret evidence based information for planning and implementing individually appropriate learning environments linked to ongoing assessment and collaboration with parents and professional team members.

1. We shall engage in ongoing and systematic reflective inquiry and self-assessment for the

purpose of continuous improvement of professional performance and services to young children

with disabilities and their families.

2. We shall continually be aware of issues challenging the field of early childhood special education

and advocate for changes in laws, regulations, and policies leading to improved outcomes and

services for young children with disabilities and their families.

3. We shall be responsible for maintaining the appropriate national, state, or other credential or

licensure requirements for the services we provide while maintaining our competence in practice

and research by ongoing participation in professional development and education activities.

4. We shall support professionals new to the field by mentoring them in the practice of evidence and ethically based services.

These three were most meaningful to me because I feel that all children should have an equal chance to learn and play without being judged.  Children with and without disabilities should be treated fairly all the time. My daughter has a disability which has caused me to be an advocate for families with children with disabilities.  I have assisted families with getting help for their children to insure that they receive the assistance that they deserve.