Minds Still Matter

Our first speaker of the evening was Professor Jack Shonkoff, director of the Center on the Developing Child at Harvard University. Professor Shonkoff explained that brain development during the five first years has a significant impact on later life, particularly in terms of the positive environment children experience during this time and the importance of interactions with adults.

Professor Shonkoff went on to stress that, while the benefits of early education are far-reaching, these can only truly be realised if the workforce is supported: “If we want to meet the needs of young children, we need to meet the needs of those who care for them.”

Next up, award-winning journalist, author and public speaker Poorna Bell spoke about the importance of prioritising mental health and wellbeing. She stressed that while there is not a silver bullet, small changes can have a notable impact. Poorna explained the changes she has made to her how mental health since the death of her husband, including how to be accountable for your own wellbeing by putting together a mental health checklist.

Alliance chief executive Neil Leitch closed this year’s conference with a passionate speech about the importance of valuing the mental health of the sector’s workforce. Neil criticised the lack of focus placed on mental health both in terms of the early years workforce and society overall, sharing his own experiences of the impact mental health challenges can have. Neil then detailed the significant amount of pressure educators are under, citing the Alliance’s mental health survey findings.

Neil closed by recognising the vital work of the sector. To anyone who is struggling with their mental health, he said: “Please don’t remain silent. Because you are worthy of the support and love that you spend your life giving to others every single day.”