Ethical Perspectives and the Early Childhood Professional (200-250)

Part 1

Children’s families play a critical role in their language and literacy development. It is important for early childhood teachers to establish connections with each child’s family unit and parental figures so that the lines of communication and mutual respect are strong (Otto, 2014, p. 382).  There are so many different ways to communicate with the families of a new preschooler. 

Ms. Shelley: Good morning, I am so excited that we have a new friend playing with us today.

Khloe’s mom:  I hope it goes well I am really nervous about how she will do being away from me. 

Ms. Shelley:  I’m sure it will be a little tough at first but we will all slide right into the routine if we let Khloe see we have positive attitudes about it. 

Khloe’s mom:  I am trying, is it okay if I call and check on her later today?

Ms. Shelley: well sure you can you have all my numbers don’t you? 

Khloe’s mom:  yes I do.  I also wanted to ask you if she will be doing daily lessons or if they will just play most of the time. 

Ms. Shelley: yes mam we do circle time, exercise time, story time and ‘class’ time each day along with a lot of free play.  You will be able to follow along with our lessons either by looking at the website or the newsletter that is mailed out.  Both will include our weekly themes, words to the finger plays and items needed for crafts.  I can also make you a copy of our circle time cd so you can learn the songs and know what Khloe is singing. 

Khloe’s mom: oh okay that sounds cool.  You know she is going to throw a fit when I leave right?  Should I just go while she isn’t looking?

Ms. Shelley: she might be upset for a few minutes but as the general rule they all calm down after about ten minutes or so. And no please don’t sneak out.  We need to make sure you tell Khloe every morning that you are leaving and where you are going and when you will be back.  It is also very important that if you tell Khloe ok ‘one more kiss’, that is only one more kiss and then you leave, otherwise you might get manipulated into a zillion kisses.  

Khloe’s mom: ok well let’s get this over with ……Khloe come here honey mommas going to work. 

Part 2

Ethics statement for Broseley Preschool and Daycare

New situations and change can at times be unsettling for all of us.  For children it might be their first experience of separation from the parents or care givers at home.  It is common for even the most outgoing child to be anxious the first day of school.  As a team it is our job to recognize that children need to be supported by teachers, peers, community, family and society.  Communications are very important to us.  When I accept a new family into the center we like to be sure that we can openly share concerns or questions that arise.  If we can work together then your child can feel secure in knowing they have two families who love them very much.  We grow to love each child that is in our care and treasure the chance to be a part of their lives.  It is important that there is a similar childcare philosophy between us.  I will respect and help all students excel.  I will motivate students with new and inventive applications.  I will provide a safe and caring environment for my students to learn in.  I will communicate with my students about my expectations and goals for them.  I will communicate to families about accomplishments as well as concerns I might have regarding the children. 

References:

Otto, B. (2014). Language Development in Early Childhood Education (4th ed.). Upper Saddle River, NJ: Pearson Education.