Managers reach for data, but leaders offer more in difficult times writes Stephanie Jackiewicz.
While data is necessary, we need a different style of leadership, one based on relationships—something at which early childhood educators excel.
‘The only thing that is constant is change’—Heraclitus.
This quote from Greek philosopher Heraclitus captures his ‘insistence on ever-present change as being the fundamental essence of the universe’ (Good Reads). The pace of change and the level of uncertainty society is experiencing is unprecedented. Never more than now have we looked to the leaders to show us the way. So what does this mean for leaders in the early childhood sector?
Like most other sectors early childhood has become data driven, with reports on all manner of information. All of this data is useful when making decisions, predictions or when reporting to the authorities using elegant dashboards. These are tools commonly used by management in their decision making, however in a time of rapid change and uncertainty it is not data that will lead the way, it is the human spirit that will lead us through these challenging times.
The qualities required of leaders during this time are those of servant leadership. This approach is distinguished by serving people; never before has servant leadership been more pertinent. Servant leaders are able to relate to others, show emotional strength and develop trust and respect amongst others, they put themselves before their teams. Most significantly the servant leader leads with humility (Blanchard and Broadwell, 2018).
Early childhood leaders show strong servant leadership, they are ‘expert at developing relationships, their leadership has always necessitated deep human qualities and required them to go beyond the conventional notions of authority’ (Lewis, 2012). They are guided by the ECA Code of Ethics in their decision making, ensuring results are accomplished with integrity. Currently early childhood educators are being touted as ‘essential workers’ alongside health workers and other emergency service personnel. It is because of servant leadership qualities early childhood is taking the lead and providing care and education for children during this high risk period, putting the needs of others before themselves. It is these qualities that will hold early childhood leaders in good stead to navigate the current crisis.
The principles that underpin practice in early childhood also strengthen leadership; secure respectful and reciprocal relationships, partnerships, equity, diversity and ongoing learning (Belonging, Becoming and Being, 2012). It is through the positive relationships with others that leaders will find the way forward. Partnerships are crucial to ensure decisions are based on the collective knowledge and understanding as leaders strive for equitable and effective ways to lead the sector. While leadership is both an individual and collective responsibility, this is not a time for individualism but rather collectivism. Cultures such as Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures support the understanding of a collectivist approach.
The pace of change and uncertainty being experienced is draining and difficult to navigate even for the most experienced leader. It is not the data or the traditional management style that will bring us through this but those who lead with kindness, who are resilient and brave, who took chances in this unknown space and are quick to adapt to the new world order. It is a delicate dance between leader and servant. One does not diminish the other, sometimes you lead and sometimes you follow, but always you think of the other person.
References
- Belonging, Becoming and Being (2012) Early Years Learning Framework.
- Blanchard, K and Broadwell, R.(eds) (2018) Servant Leadership in Action, Polvera Publishing, Oakland California
- Fasoli, L., Scrivens, C., & Woodrow, C. (2007). Challenges for leadership in Aotearoa/New Zealand and Australian early childhood contexts. In L. Keesing-Styles & H. Hedges (Eds), Theorising early childhood practice: Emerging dialogues. Sydney, NSW: Pademelon Press.
- Good reads Available at https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/77989.Heraclitus
- Lewis, J and Hill, J. (2012). What does leadership look like in early childhood settings? Available at thespoke.earlychildhoodaustralia.org.au/leadership-look-like-early-childhood-settings/
ECA Recommends
Early Childhood Leadership in Action
By Elizabeth Stamopoulos and Lennie Barblett
The principles and practice of confident and creative leadership for early childhood pre-service teachers and educators
Leadership is a core skill required by all early childhood educators, whatever position they hold – whether leading their own ethical and professional practice or leading others. From understanding ethical frameworks to managing change, and from quality assurance to working with teams, families and the wider community, the most effective early childhood leaders act with confidence, flexibility and creativity. You can purchase a copy from the ECA Shop here.
What a powerful piece especially this sentence “It is a delicate dance between leader and servant. One does not diminish the other, sometimes you lead and sometimes you follow, but always you think of the other person.”
One does not diminish the other, sometimes you lead and sometimes you follow, but always you think of the other person. This really stood out to me as it is something I can relate to. It’s important to learn from others and collaborate with each other.
Great article, when will we been seen and treated as essential and given the recognition we so deserve?
Being a servant is a necessary quality of the human being at all times. It is one of the highest virtues we can express, and there is nothing more honourable than having the opportunity to serve – life and humanity.
I really enjoyed reading your article. It is essential these. Thank you.
This article captures everything I see in early childhood. A community service based on relationships and the promise to create better outcomes for the community.
I didn’t think much of servant leader in early childhood industry. Good eye opener. Unfortunately we don’t get the recognition we deserve, even though servant leadership is considered the best and most appealing leadership quality.
Great article that provokes thinking about our skillset as leaders and are we driven by the data and legislation that we have to follow on daily basis. However, I completely agree that collaboration is the key to success.
Great article, funny that we are not considered essential workers, yet our work is reliant on ensuring that our young children are socially and emotionally ready for school and community, building their character.
I appreciate that the principles that underpin practice in early childhood and also strengthen leadership, this resinated with me.
The pace of change we are experiencing is draining – a telling sentence really. We are indeed drained and I am not sure I am being refueled at the same rate.
I’m feeling the drain yet still hopeful and trying to stay empathetic given the stress levels at the moment it is hard!