Early Childhood Leadership: Motivation, Inspiration, Empowerment is a must-have book for anyone who occupies a leadership position (e.g., administrator, director, coordinator, team leader, manager, lead teacher) or anticipates doing so in the future. It addresses one of the most challenging workplace issues facing employers today-the ability to encourage employees' creativity, productivity, and long-term commitment to an organization. Studies consistently show that low employee morale and high turnover rates are common in early childhood programs and, in turn, affect the quality of services provided for children and families. Unfortunately, strategies used by many supervisors to guide and manage employee behavior often contribute to employee dissatisfaction and attrition. A sound understanding of motivational theory and skills (e.g., communication, leadership, team-building, decision-making) enables effective leaders to create positive work environments, boost employee morale, and encourage positive performance. When employees believe their efforts are being acknowledged and valued, they are less likely to leave their jobs-an additional and important benefit-especially in the field of early childhood education.

Lynn Marotz received a PhD in educational policy and leadership from the University of Kansas, an MEd from the University of Illinois, and a BS in nursing from the University of Wisconsin. She was a faculty member in the Department of Applied Behavioral Science, University of Kansas, and taught undergraduate and graduate courses in administration and leadership, issues in parenting, health/safety/nutrition and young children, and foundations of early childhood education. In addition, she served as associate director of the Edna A. Hill Child Development Center (University of Kansas) for 35 years.