Category Archives: Early Childhood Leadership

The partnership between the parent and the teacher cannot be underestimated. When it is built on mutual trust and respect, everything else falls into place. Everything! Continue reading →

Even in the most competently run early childhood programs, parents have concerns and sometimes complaints. And, they have a right and a responsibility to express their concerns, and, to receive thoughtful responses. There are some general strategies to use in these situations – strategies that will also help us continue to build positive relationships. Read on… Continue reading →

As early childhood educators, helping relationships develop naturally and authentically between parents, teachers, and children is what we do. Some of us do this with ease. Some of us need a little guidance. And some of us have used the strategy of building the parent relationship through the child with much success.
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This past year I have had the privilege of working with numerous directors of early childhood programs, as well as their teams of teachers. And what I experienced, time and time again, was their passion, their enthusiasm, and their strong commitment to quality. I also observed many magical moments, as I moved from program to program and watched masterful teachers in action. We are fortunate to have these people in our programs. As we know, the magic begins with a few, and then ripples throughout the organization. And, as we also know, it begins at the top. Continue reading →

The longer I live, the less I understand the “rushing,” the “hurriedness,” the “sense of urgency” that accompanies everything we do today. Why the fast lane? Where are we going? What are we racing to? Can’t we slow things down – for our children? Can’t we celebrate the ordinary moments – that, as we know, are anything but ordinary! Can’t we follow the children’s lead in this? And, can we let them be little? Continue reading →

Young children need practice engaging in conversation with the important adults in their lives. A shared conversation – a two-way dialogue – a back-and-forth. By our talking with them, they build their speaking and listening skills. They build important language skills, necessary for later reading and comprehension. The question for us is, “How do we do this effectively?” Continue reading →

In Reggio Emilia there is much discussion around the principle – The Image of the Child. For it is the point from which all teaching and learning begin. How much time have we spent thinking about our image of the child? And, do our early childhood settings reflect the image we hold? Continue reading →

As leaders and directors of organizations, we do a great deal of communicating. When we focus on, and concentrate on our listening – in every interaction – our skills improve and we will communicate more effectively! Continue reading →