Child Care Code of Ethics

Responsibility to Children

• Have a basic foundation in childhood education and keep that knowledge current by attending classes and trainings. Recognize that each child is an individual and will grow and develop at his/her own pace. Treat each child equally and encourage every child to participate. Maintain a clean, safe and healthy environment so that children can feel comfortable to play and learn. Make sure that children are with you at all times and that all activities, both indoor and outdoor, are supervised.

Responsibility to Families

• Help families feel comfortable and welcome in your environment; listen to their concerns and be sure to answer any of their questions. Learn about any special needs that their children may have and maintain confidentiality. Ask questions; learn what their children's interests are and base learning on those interests. Maintain open and active communication through phone calls, conferences and daily conversation. Share the children's emotional and intellectual development with families. Respect and educate yourself on the different cultures of your families.

Responsiblity to Colleagues

• Create and sustain relationships of trust and openness with co-workers and employers. Be supportive of your fellow co-workers; encourage them to grow professionally and congratulate them on achievements. Behave professionally at all times. If a co-worker is not behaving professionally, especially toward a child, the matter needs to be resolved or reported; the safety of the children always comes first. Provide the best-quality care you can and remain loyal to your program.

Responsibility to the Community

• Provide quality programs to the families of your community. Ensure that your programs are culturally diverse and age-appropriate. Offer workshops and lend out your resources to families to improve their knowledge about child development. Encourage families to get together by posting community events and hosting family fun time at your place of learning. Show that you value your community by getting involved and volunteering. Network with other organizations and agencies in the community and report any unethical treatment of children in those organizations to the appropriate authorities.

Summary

• Appreciate all children and families by respecting their values and cultures. Provide children with high-quality care and offer educational resources to families. Meet each child's needs, intellectually, emotionally and physically, in an age-appropriate manner while remembering that each child is unique and will grow and develop at a different rate. Act professionally in the workplace and with colleagues. Become an active member of the community and encourage families to do the same. The safety and well-being of the children remains the top priority as a caregiver.