Do not wait for someone else to come and speak for you. It’s you who can change the world.
– Malala Yousafzai, Pakistani education activist and Nobel Peace Prize laureate

In a recent ExchangeEveryDay we shared five lessons about ECE leadership and invited you to share your own insights and experiences.

Here are some of your responses:

What lessons have you learned on your ECE journey?

“It is important to live from inside of yourself to navigate your journey outside of yourself in the world where you live. I’ve learned how important it is to ‘know thyself’ to develop strong, meaningful relationships with others you come in contact with every day.” – Robert Gundling

“Early childhood educators are paid the lowest, aside from the degree one needs to get employment and continue education to renew a teaching license.” – Ruth Flores

“I’ve learned the importance of fostering friendships and mentors in thinking deeply about the field. 95% of what I know and understand about our work has come through those most valuable relationships!” – Kirsten Haugen

What challenges are you currently facing?

“Navigating my way through the phases of retirement to find out how to continue my work as a leader in Early Childhood Education. This is a challenge because I find people value those younger than me who are at the prime of their careers and actively engaged in Early Childhood Education.” – Robert Gundling

“Teacher shortage in all schools.” – Ruth Flores

“I see programs and teams continue to struggle financially in a field where we need to keep costs low for families while attempting to provide viable salaries and compensation for staff. I also see us facing a time of challenge and scrutiny from outsiders who want to define our field for us, particularly when it comes to what young children need and how we create spaces and communities of welcome and belonging for all.” – Kirsten Haugen