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Last month, Childcare Resources welcomed Dr. Nefertiti Poyner. During our time together, we explored how our personal experiences and core values connect us to our role in early childhood education. Participants reflected on workplace misalignments and considered how internal and external distraction can interfere with our passion, peace, and moments of joy. Together, we also developed a simple "Listen for Joy" practice designed to quiet the noise and realign with our purpose.

Intentional early childhood educators weave joy into daily routines and the learning environment. They infuse it as they attend to each child's unique needs and support all areas of development. It is visible in smiles, laughter, play, and meaningful connections. Both thoughtfully designed experiences and unplanned moments can foster joy. Based on our experiences working with children in early childhood settings and coaching educators and center leaders, we want to share six practices we often see in classrooms that have incredible evidence of joy and meaningful connections. We hope they inspire you to plan for and support joyful, engaged teaching and learning in your childcare setting.

1. Smiling and Laughing

2. Playing and Being Silly

3. Pausing and Being Present

4. Appreciating and Wondering

5. Delighting and Engaging in Multiple Modalities

6. Dancing and Moving

As stated in the NAEYC position statement on developmentally appropriate practice, "Educators who engage in developmentally appropriate practice foster young children's joyful learning and maximize the opportunities for each and every child to achieve their full potential" (NAEYC 2025). In our own work, we have found that joy is the source of meaningful learning and connection. Through both intentionally planned and unplanned experiences, educators can create an environment where every child grows, learns, and feels seen, valued, and inspired.

To learn more about engaging minds with joy and practical teaching strategies, click here: NAEYC: Practice Joy

Here are some reflective questions to ask yourself when considering enhancing your practice as you foster young children’s joyful learning:

• How do you prioritize children’s joy in your setting?

• How do you know when you and the children in your setting are engaged in joyful learning? What does it feel like, sound like, and look like?

• Look for joyful moments and capture them in photos.

• How often do you smile, laugh, play, act silly, sing, and move in your setting each day?

• How often do you pause and delight in moments with children?

• How can you prioritize this during a busy learning day?

As you continue to reflect on your learning, our team is here to support you through ongoing technical assistance following the workshop. This support is designed to help you put ideas into practice, strengthen your approach, and navigate any challenges that may arise along the way.

Whether through individualized coaching, classroom observations, or resource sharing, we are committed to partnering with you to deepen your understanding and sustain meaningful change. We encourage you to reach out, ask questions, and take advantage of these follow-up opportunities as you continue growing in your important work with young children. We can’t wait to visit you in your classrooms!

Wishing you all the best,

Amanda, Todd, and Jensen