In her book, Learning to Lead: Effective Leadership Skills for Teachers of Young Children, Exchange Director of Community Development Debra Sullivan observes that "the strength and enthusiasm of leadership at the middle and lower levels of any group or program create the strength and enthusiasm at the top." She goes on to explain....

"In order for a program to do best for children and families, leadership must be present at all levels within every early childhood setting, whether that be a family child care home, a center, a school-age child care program, or a preschool. Leader-like actions and qualities must come from every teacher, assistant, aid, and support staff member — every adult. We need to recognize the leadership ability our own circles of influence — the people we interact with on a regular basis — and begin to make connections between this leadership ability and the ability to influence what happens in our lives and in the lives of children. Leadership does not only occur at top levels, and it is not always the sole property of the 'person in charge.' In practice, it is spread throughout all levels, which is essential for a healthy system. Everyone throughout any program or organization must be ready to take leader-like action so each level can function effectively.