Top tips: New year new energy – supporting your team
As we get ready to step into a new year, it’s a perfect opportunity to embrace fresh beginnings, renewed energy and exciting possibilities. A new year offers a chance for reflection, growth and inspiration. These tips are designed to help leaders support their staff in feeling motivated, valued and empowered, while also prioritising their well-being.
Top tips for new year new energy
- Start by recognising successes from the past year – highlight team achievements and individual contributions to set a positive start for the year ahead
- Involve the team in setting new goals for the year, both for the nursery and for their own professional growth
- Emphasise the concept of a ‘new year, new beginning’. Invite staff to reflect on what they would like to try, explore or improve in their practice during the new year
- Ensure the team knows that their well-being matters. Schedule regular check-ins and create a supportive culture where staff feel safe to share challenges or stress
- Share and discuss the setting’s vision for the year ahead, including priorities, changes and new initiatives and empower staff to contribute confidently
- Offer opportunities for professional development – workshops, peer learning and mentoring. Link learning to staff interests to keep motivation high
- Lead by example – approach challenges with optimism, embrace new ideas and show flexibility. Your attitude sets the tone and inspires staff to adopt a ‘best version of ourselves’ mindset.
NDNA products to help you with this tip
Supporting well-being in the early years workforce – online course
Disclaimer: Activities with children must always be risk assessed, including for allergies or choking. Children must always have adequate supervision. Resources and materials must always be appropriate for children’s age and stage of development.
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