Mutual learning with Leading for Children is a reminder that all the adults in early learning are working for that same goal, for the children. We talk about perspective-taking a lot, and that reminds me to take a breath and try to understand what the other person is thinking. If our goal is the same, I know we can get there. This is an active effort to build a community across the state.

I’ve really been trying to be more aware of my impact. We talk with children about the impact of their words and actions, asking them to consider whether they are helpful or hurtful. I think adults could benefit from these conversations. This is what happens in LFC mutual learning. We think together about the impact of our words. We consider whether we’re contributing to the solution. We acknowledge that sometimes it’s best not to say anything. I’ve realized that I have a choice. Mutual learning makes concepts applicable to your life and your work, and so you keep doing it and it stays relevant. It’s real life, and it’s you. You are the one who has to be self-aware. It becomes part of who you are.