Key Takeaways
- NAEYC Code of Ethics guides professional behavior
- Commit to ongoing professional development
- Maintain appropriate professional boundaries
- Advocate for children at individual, program, and policy levels
- Practice self-care to prevent burnout
Last updated: January 2026
Professionalism
Functional Area 13 focuses on making decisions based on knowledge of early childhood theories and practices, promoting quality in child care services, and taking advantage of opportunities to improve competence.
What is Professionalism?
Professionalism in early childhood means:
- Continuously improving knowledge and skills
- Acting ethically in all situations
- Advocating for children and families
- Collaborating with colleagues
- Maintaining appropriate boundaries
The NAEYC Code of Ethical Conduct
The NAEYC Code of Ethical Conduct guides professional behavior in four areas:
| Section | Focus |
|---|---|
| I: Children | Responsibilities to children |
| II: Families | Responsibilities to families |
| III: Colleagues | Responsibilities to co-workers |
| IV: Community/Society | Responsibilities to community |
Core Values in Early Childhood
- Appreciate childhood as unique life stage
- Base work on knowledge of child development
- Appreciate and support family bonds
- Recognize children develop in family and cultural contexts
- Respect dignity, worth, and uniqueness of each individual
- Respect diversity
- Recognize that children learn best in trusting relationships
Professional Development
Ongoing Learning:
- Attend workshops and conferences
- Take college courses
- Read professional journals
- Join professional organizations (NAEYC, state associations)
- Seek mentoring
- Reflect on practice
Areas for Growth:
- Child development knowledge
- Curriculum and instruction
- Assessment methods
- Family engagement
- Diversity and inclusion
- Special needs
- Health and safety
Appropriate Boundaries
Maintain professional boundaries:
- Keep relationships professional
- Maintain confidentiality
- Avoid personal discussions during work
- Use professional communication
- Follow social media policies
With families:
- Friendly but professional relationship
- Program email/phone for communication
- Meet at program, not personal spaces
- Share information appropriately
Advocacy for Children and Families
Types of Advocacy:
| Level | Examples |
|---|---|
| Individual | Speaking up for a specific child |
| Program | Improving program quality |
| Policy | Supporting legislation for children |
| Community | Educating others about early childhood |
Advocate by:
- Knowing issues affecting children
- Contacting elected officials
- Supporting quality standards
- Educating families and community
- Joining advocacy organizations
Self-Care
Taking care of yourself is professional:
- Manage stress effectively
- Maintain work-life balance
- Seek support when needed
- Practice healthy habits
- Recognize burnout signs
Commitment to Quality
Quality indicators:
- Low ratios and group sizes
- Qualified, trained staff
- Safe, healthy environment
- Developmentally appropriate practice
- Family engagement
- Continuous improvement
Test Your Knowledge
Which of the following is part of the NAEYC Code of Ethical Conduct?
A
B
C
D
Test Your Knowledge
Which is an example of professional advocacy?
A
B
C
D