Qualities of an Early Childhood Leader

11/10/2004

Qualities of an Early Childhood Leader

"Minds differ still more than faces." - Voltaire

Qualities of an Early Childhood Leader
In 2003 Early Childhood Australia (ECA) announced its new policy on the qualities of adults working with children in early childhood programs. The following excerpts from this policy outline the requisite qualities of "adults with professional leadership responsibility":

"To ensure they make a positive contribution to children's health, wellbeing and optimum development, all staff must know how to:

* Interact with children using strategies that respect cultural diversity and personal attributes, and are informed by principles of child development, and

* Work as a team member, understanding and acting within organisational policies and procedures regarding children and families.

"...It is essential that staff assigned professional leadership responsibilities provide evidence that they have completed an accredited course [and]....continue to monitor, nuture and strengthen these qualities through ongoing professional development activities [and]...provide evidence that they are able to:

* Draw on relevant, current research to make creative, effective adaptations to care and education practices impacting on children and families in the program;

* Be an effective advocate for children and families amongst other professionals with communities and in the immediate workplace; and

* Offer productive, inspirting leadership that builds team spirit, fosters good practices with children and parents, manages workplace conflict and results in effective on-site training programs for staff."

ECA is a member of the World Forum Alliance which offers guidance and support to World Forum activities. To learn more about ECA and the World Forum Alliance, go to: http://mail.ccie.com/go/eed/0458

For more information about Exchange's magazine, books, and other products pertaining to ECE, go to www.ccie.com.