235 - Building Relationships and Networks: Collaborating for Positive Change

This episode discusses how child care directors can become active advocates in their state and make a meaningful impact on policies that affect children, families, and the early childhood profession. It emphasizes the importance of staying informed about key issues and policies, joining advocacy organizations and coalitions, and leveraging strengths and interests to make a difference. The benefits of advocacy include amplifying voices, influencing policy decisions, building relationships and networks, and experiencing fulfillment and empowerment. The episode also provides resources for child care directors to get involved in advocacy.

Takeaways

• Child care directors have a unique opportunity and responsibility to advocate for positive change in their communities.
• Staying informed about key issues and policies is crucial for effective advocacy.
• Child care directors can leverage their strengths and interests to make a difference.
• Advocacy allows directors to amplify their voices and influence policy decisions.
• Building relationships and networks with stakeholders is important for advancing shared goals.
• Advocacy provides a sense of fulfillment and empowerment.
• Child care directors can get involved in advocacy through organizations, coalitions, and online forums.
• Being part of advocacy efforts can make a real difference in the lives of children, families, and child care staff.