Code of Ethics The Code of Ethical Conduct and Statement of Commitment, approved by NAEYC’s Govern
ing Board in 1989, revised in 2005, and reaffirmed and updated in 2011, includes a s ection of ethical responsibilities to families, articulating 15 specific principles gover ning actions and the following nine ideals:
1. To be familiar with the knowledge base related to working effectively with families an d to stay informed through continuing education and training
2. To develop relationships of mutual trust and create partnerships with the families se rved
3. To welcome all family members and encourage them to participate in the program (S ee Figure 4-14.)
4. To listen to families, acknowledge and build on their strengths and competencies, a nd learn from families as we support them in their task of nurturing children
5. To respect the dignity and preferences of each family and to make an effort to learn about its structure, culture, language, customs, and beliefs
6. To acknowledge families’ child- rearing values and their right to make decisions for their children
7. To share information about children’s education and development with families and to help them understand and appreciate the current knowledge base of the early chi ldhood education profession
8. To help family members enhance their understanding of their children and support t he continuing development of their skills as parents
9. To participate in building support networks for families by giving them opportunities to interact with program staff, other families, community resources, and profession al services (NAEYC, 2005, 2011)