In 2025, much of the sector found itself in the spotlight, with conversations happening about early childhood rather than with the people leading it every day. For those in leadership roles, this didn’t stay at a policy or media level. It showed up in services, in teams, and in ongoing conversations about capacity, morale, and sustainability. Now here we are, at the beginning of another year & something important is already happening and culture within your service is being s

Early Childhood Educators’ Day is more than a date on the calendar, it’s a chance to honour the relational and educational work that shapes children’s futures. Drawing on research, neuroscience, and this year’s theme Together We All Shine, we explore meaningful, evidence-informed ways to recognise educators, strengthen team culture, and celebrate the impact of their daily practice.

This moment in our sector,  as challenging and uncomfortable as it is,  is also an invitation to reclaim the heart of our work. To understand the deep neuroscience of trust, and build systems that honour it. To walk alongside our teams and families with clarity and care, not just when everything is going well, but when things are messy, emotional, and uncertain.

Mentoring in early childhood education is more than guidance, it's a trust-based conversation that shapes leadership, wellbeing, and team culture. Drawing on Conversational Intelligence® and neuroscience, this post explores how mentoring builds brain-aligned leadership and empowers educators to grow with confidence, clarity, and connection. Discover how The Dandelion Project is nurturing future leaders from the inside out.

Slowing down in early childhood leadership isn’t about doing less, it’s about leading with intention, presence, and connection. In this blog, we explore how slow pedagogy, self-regulation, and neuroscience-informed practices can transform team culture and support emotionally safe environments for children and educators alike. Discover how conscious leadership creates the conditions for everyone to thrive.