Once in a while, seemingly unrelated events weave together, synergies become apparent, and something unexpected develops. That is what I experienced as I talked with Beth Fredericks, Michelle Zimmer and Heather Fox about their interesting journeys as early childhood leaders. After three delightful conversations, I suddenly realized that what at first seemed like unique stories were tied together by the common themes of relationships and courage. As each of these accomplished leaders talked about lessons learned over the course of their careers, I asked them what advice they have for leaders new to our field. I also wondered how they have kept themselves excited about their work over the long haul.

Beth Fredericks has had a diverse career in various parts of the world. She is the dean of LittleAcademy, a professional development platform powered by LittleLives, a company working with ECE professionals in Singapore, Malaysia, Vietnam and China. Why did she choose to focus her work on professional development?

“Helping teachers reflect on their practice is crucial to providing high-quality programs,” she replied. “Taking good care of teachers helps them take good care of children. Professional development has to be ongoing because the world keeps changing. As families change, children’s experiences change. We want teachers to learn from new innovations and ponder global ideas and bring the best new thinking to their work.” 

Beth’s advice to new leaders: “First, check yourself. Have you done your own reflecting? Do you know yourself and your own style well enough to be able to lead others? For example, if you really reflect, might you realize, ‘Maybe I don’t need to have all the answers. Maybe it’s important to listen more.’”

Beth also spoke of the importance of relationships. “I love to deeply connect with people—get to know them. I’m genuinely interested in who they are. One reason I felt so successful as a center director in my earlier career was my fascination with people. I love knowing what matters to them. I was interested in every parent. I genuinely wanted to hear teachers’ ideas. And, I’m a connector in one more way: I love getting people together, finding ways they can share information, support each other, and develop new partnerships.”

ADVERTISEMENT

I asked Beth how she’s kept herself motivated. She didn’t use the word courage, but that seemed to be what she meant. “Take a risk,” she said. “Don’t be afraid to put yourself out there. Trust yourself to do something you’ve always wanted to do. Moving to Singapore was a huge risk for me, but it led to rewarding work. I knew I could do it if I took it one day at a time.” 

Michelle Zimmer is the long-time director of Dimensions Education Programs. Heather Fox is the outreach and communications director for Dimensions, and recently shifted her responsibilities to work with Michelle on opening a second location for the school. The two leaders experienced countless challenges as they negotiated the construction process for a new site; hired and trained an excellent staff; and safeguarded the culture of the existing program, inviting long-term teachers to serve as mentors and collaborators with new team members.

When I asked Michelle’s advice for new leaders, she replied: “Cultivating authentic relationships with staff, families and children is the most important thing you’ll do. Part of relationship-building is being a thoughtful communicator. To be sure staff and families feel informed and invited into decision-making, ask questions as much as you supply answers.”

Heather added, “Get to know each staff person as an individual, beyond their professional role. Ask about personal interests, and find what matters most to them. Learn the reason they’re in the field, and reference it often in conversations.” 

How has Michelle kept herself motivated? “Don’t be afraid to take on new challenges. A scary new thing can bring a lot of joy once you’ve mastered it. And find yourself a support network of colleagues—outside of your staff—that you can be vulnerable with.”

Heather spoke about the ultimate joy of risk-taking as a motivator: “When someone brings me an idea I’m unsure about, I push myself to think, ‘Why not try it?’ If I stay true to my core values, then I’m clear on what opportunities I can pursue—even if they’re outside my comfort zone.”

Heather, like Beth and Michelle, also stressed the importance of self-care. “I find moments of playfulness whenever I can. When I’m traveling I look for a new museum, or I just intentionally make a human connection with someone. Finding joy keeps me going.”