But she urges leaders to resist the urge to move to more structure and less play.

“Research is on our side,” she writes. “Children who learn through play demonstrate stronger language skills, better self-regulation, and deeper conceptual understanding (Weinberg et al., 2016).”

Foster-Jorgensen is Founder of the Joyous Leadership Collabratory, which she describes in her own words:

“The call for joyful, resilient, and financially sustainable leadership is stronger than ever in early childhood organizations. Directors navigate complex challenges every day—balancing program quality, staff well-being, and the business realities that keep their organizations strong. Across the field, leaders are asking for a place where real solutions, clear strategy, and supportive connection come together to create lasting transformation.

“The Joyous Leadership Collabratory™—an online membership community designed to elevate early childhood leadership through innovation, shared learning, and practical business tools—was created for exactly this purpose. Led by experienced early childhood business leaders, the Collabratory blends collaboration with real-world expertise to help directors strengthen financial practices, solve persistent challenges, and build systems where joy becomes fuel for doing the hard work well. Members gain fresh insights, actionable strategies, and the grounded leadership mindset needed to move toward a truly Joyous Organization. Launching now, the Joyous Leadership Collabratory™ is welcoming early participants into a 49-day Joy Seeker Journey for just $1—an invitation to explore the community, experience the tools, and discover how a more confident, sustainable, and joyful approach to leadership can take shape. Learn more about the Collabratory experience at: community.childcaredirector.com/welcome.