ECE leadership occurs in many forms from the classroom to the director.  We believe that leadership is a stance that everyone in the program can embrace as a way to lead a classroom, a program, a community, an organization, or a state. 

Leadership is not to be confused with management, defined as the day-to-day structures of running a program. Rather leadership looks at the image of the child that we hold in our practice.

Leadership is the act of looking forward or back at our practice. Our beliefs as early childhood educators influence how we lead in our classrooms, programs, and communities. Our practice, the ideas, and the philosophies we hold dear represent the backbone of our actions when working with children. Reflective practice is fundamental to leadership, as is ongoing professional development, so we continue to grow by the ideas we read, hear, or experience in the classroom.

What influences our beliefs about leadership? 

Leadership beliefs get influenced by our experiences, being led by others, and what we believe about the capabilities of others. Primary to our experience as leaders are the values we hold about children and adults. Do we scaffold experiences for others? Do we support and trust those around us to grow into their strengths from their challenges? The only way we can genuinely develop is to examine our practice. Development involves stumbling as well as success. Our ability to support change is to be comfortable with letting go of the controls while acknowledging and celebrating our determined imperfect efforts towards growth and development.

Leadership is clear on all the influences in our lives and how they affect our ability to create a clear and consistent vision that guides our decisions. Leadership is being bold, not holding the status quo, and creating space for others to shine. Leadership celebrates how we arrive at a vision for our work with children and adults. 

Leadership stands against inequity. We consider the diversity of experience, needs, and culture of those in our programs. Leaders acknowledge systemic inequities and make choices to address these issues daily in both big and small ways. Leadership is about stepping forward and pushing for improvement. Leadership is a process, not a destination.

Reflecting On Our Practice

Reflective practice is essential as a leader, no matter what your beliefs represent or the origin of the beliefs. Look at your beliefs about leadership and how your work serves children and families in the community; if areas need improvement, direct time to try new methods and practices to enhance and grow the learning community in your sphere of influence.

We lead from where we are, whether in the classroom, program, or community. As an educator, it is our responsibility to understand the beliefs behind the enactment of our leadership, for we hold the vision of what is possible.