Members of the Finger Lakes Leadership Initiative are invited to join our monthly virtual networking meetings. Meeting topics are driven by your questions and needs. Participants will send questions in advance of the meeting or come to the meetings with questions, strategies and resources to share, or an interest in listening and learning from others' experiences. This is a space to share stories, strategies, feelings, ideas, resources, and words of encouragement about leading an early childhood program in the Finger Lakes region.  

The early care and education sector is rich with talented, creative, and deeply committed leaders. Yet, their contributions often go unrecognized and under-supported. In this paradigm-shifting presentation, Anne Douglass, PhD — author, professor, former early educator, and nationally recognized leader — explores why creative and entrepreneurial mindsets are essential for leadership at every level of the field. 

Reflective Listening for Educational Leaders
Reflective listening is a powerful communication skill that supports effective leadership in educational settings. It involves actively listening and restating key points to help the speaker feel heard, clarify their own thinking, and deepen mutual understanding. This approach not only enhances communication but also fosters stronger relationships and demonstrates respect.

In this two-part virtual Leaders Cafe, participants will develop and practice reflective listening skills, with a focus on how to apply them in real workplace scenarios. Together, we’ll explore how this skill can lead to improved collaboration, greater emotional awareness, and a more supportive professional environment.  

During this two-part series, participants will:

• Define reflective listening, understand its impact on the work environment, and identify how and when to apply reflective listening skills in practice.

• Explore how reflective listening fosters positive relationships, supports conflict resolution, and enhances collaboration and expression of ideas.

• Demonstrate how reflective listening can support staff in developing self-awareness, emotional regulation, interpersonal skills, and clear communication to prevent misunderstandings.

Registration will be capped at 15 Leadership Initiative Member per region, and a waitlist will be made available. Please only register if you can commit to attending and participating in both dates fully.