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Models of Leadership in the Early Childhood Field

As you have learned, part of your role as an early childhood professional is to be a leader who uses your knowledge of child development to advocate for young children and their families. Your leadership activities may focus on educating members of your own community about the needs of young children and families. Or, you may consider a broader role as a professional who shapes public policy on early care and education. Looking at different models of leadership in the early childhood field can offer ideas and insights to support your advocacy and to further expand career opportunities to explore.

Based on your reading of the Rigby article, “Making a Difference: Leadership in Early Care and Education Policy,” and your review of DVD Program 2, “A Call for Leadership,” consider the following questions:

• What is your impression of public policy as a career focus?
• Which of the six professionals profiled interests you the most?
• What new knowledge or insights have you gained from viewing “A Call for Leadership” again now that you have nearly completed this course?
• What assumptions or misconceptions did you have about educational leadership or public policy advocates that have been dispelled or corrected? What inspires you about this type of career in the field?

With this information and your thoughts in mind, respond to the following:

By Day 3:

Post a response to the following: 

• Describe new knowledge and insights about educational leadership in the early childhood field that you gained from reading the article and from viewing the video program again. Also, if relevant, explain any assumptions or misconceptions that were corrected for you;
• Choose one the six professionals profiled in the article whose career inspires you with regard to thinking about public policy as a career direction, and explain your choice. Then identify a professional goal you could set now to move yourself in the direction of a career in early care and education policy, or to help develop your leadership skills as a community advocate for young children and families

Due Wednesday!