Standards of ethical behavior in early childhood care and education are based on commitment to the following core values that are deeply rooted in the history of the field of early childhood care and education. We have made a commitment to
* Appreciate childhood as a unique and valuable stage of the human life cycle
* Base our work on knowledge of how children develop and learn
* Appreciate and support the bond between the child and family
* Recognize that children are best understood and supported in the context of family, culture, community, and society
* Respect the dignity, worth, and uniqueness of each individual (child, family member, and colleague)
* Respect diversity in children, families, and colleagues
* Recognize that children and adults achieve their full potential in the context of relationships that are based on trust and respect
