Reflective practice is “an important aspect of building a safe and healthy climate for . . . staff, families, and children.” The current resource, from Head Start, focuses on the use of reflection in supervisor-supervisee relationships. The author suggests offering messages, “such as ‘You have strengths,’ ‘Reflect on what you need,’ and ‘Take care of yourself’ to build resilience” and to express how valued supervisees are to the success of the program. This approach models ways in which staff can build the same type of relationship with parents and families. The author outlines five key practices:
- Reflect on the staff member’s perspective,
- Support staff’s competence,
- Focus on family-staff relationships,
- Value the staff’s passion, and
- Make time for your own reflection.
Reflection is an essential tool in supporting growth in young children, parents, staff, and supervisors, and it helps to ensure that no one feels alone in doing this very important work.