Ethics refers to the moral principles and values that guide how we make decisions and act in our daily lives.

In early childhood education, ethical practice is grounded in care: it involves recognizing the needs of ourselves and others, taking responsibility for responding to those needs, and acting with attentiveness, competence, and responsiveness in relationship.

Ethical practice protects the well-being, dignity, and rights of children, families, and educators, and upholds the integrity of the profession.

Educator well-being is a foundation to ethical practice. When educators feel safe, supported, and well, we are better equipped to offer responsive care, uphold children’s rights, and co-create meaningful learning experiences.

Early childhood education is complex, relational, and deeply situated in context. Educators make decisions every day that require care and responsiveness to children, families, colleagues, and communities.

The Guiding Principles help to support educators in navigating complexity with intention and reflection, while making this work more visible.

The Guiding Principles were developed through a multi-stage, collaborative process grounded in research, dialogue, and sector engagement. This work included:

• A review and analysis of ethical frameworks and Codes of Ethics from across Canada and internationally

• Early engagement with post-secondary partners, community organizations, and sector leaders

• Contributions from educators and students across Alberta through conversations and written reflections

• Iterative drafting and feedback to strengthen clarity, alignment, and relevance

This process reflects AECEA’s commitment to ensuring the document is shaped by the knowledge, experiences, and realities of those working in the field. This work is not about defining a single way of practicing. It is about creating space to reflect, question, and grow.

Each principle is structured to support meaningful engagement:

• The principle names a shared commitment within our profession
• We understand… highlights the knowledge, values, and perspectives that ground the commitment
• We embody… describes how the principle may be expressed in practice, relationships, and decision-making
• We adapt by asking ourselves… offers reflective questions to support ongoing learning and responsiveness
  within each principle

The Guiding Principles should be used in ways that are relevant for your practice. You might use them as a: 

• reflective tool in individual practice
• conversation guide within teams or communities of practice
• foundation for professional learning
• support when navigating complex or uncertain situations
• tool to share with families

As you reflect, we welcome you to share how these ideas are showing up in your practice. 
Your reflections will help shape an upcoming companion resource.