Educating Young Children Volume 1 - Summer 2025 | Page 15

› Starting a professional learning book club at your school, program, or district

› Volunteering to mentor or coach teachers who are beginning their careers

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4. Embrace childhood change education. in our communities, states, and nation. Be aware of new technologies( like artificial intelligence), and investigate their potential benefits and limitations. Explore how you might intentionally use them in different areas of your work. Also, embrace new opportunities— even if they make you uncomfortable. Linda remembers how anxious she was after moving into an administrative role: She had to give presentations to directors and other leaders, send districtwide emails, and learn about finance and procurement. But a learner’ s mindset is critical as you advance in your career. Let go of perfectionism, and lean into being uncomfortable: It’ s okay to ask questions and make mistakes. Give yourself the same grace that you give children.

5. Never forget why you do this work.

Children are our focus. No matter where you are in your professional journey, it is crucial to look for the positive and to focus on what you can control. No day is perfect, but every day has something positive about it. Lean into those moments to nurture a positive, motivated mindset.

Photograph: © Getty Images Copyright © 2025 by the National Association for the Education of Young Children. See permissions and reprints online at NAEYC. org / resources / permissions.