NAEYC code of ethic ideals that I find especially meaningful

§  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

o   Inclusive learning is extremely important to me. I think that it helps children in the classroom with and without disabilities learn empathy, patience, respect, caring, and create diverse friendships.

§  To advocate for and ensure that all children, including those with special needs, have access to the support services needed to be successful.

o   I think that our state, and our country, is getting better at giving students the services they need, but sometimes they still need a push to give students all the services that will help them to succeed. I have learned that a little help goes a long way and that early intervention is better than fixing a problem that is already there.

§  When another person tells us of his or her suspicion that a child is being abused or neglected, we shall assist that person in taking appropriate action in order to protect the child.

o   As a professional in the early childhood field, we are all mandated reporters. That does not mean that we always have to make the call ourselves, but we can also be a support system for others that need to make that decision. The time to act is now, not later, but sometimes people need that extra support to be able to do what is right. The well-being of the child always needs to come first and foremost, our children are our future and they deserve to be safe.