In early learning and child care (ELCC), strong relationships don’t just benefit children, they also strengthen the adults who support them. Mentoring is one of the most powerful tools we have for building professional capacity, fostering a culture of reflection, collaboration, and care.

Capacity building refers to the process of increasing knowledge, skills, and confidence across a team or individual so they’re better equipped to respond to diverse needs, navigate challenges, and create meaningful, inclusive learning environments. It’s not about being perfect, it’s about growing together.

Mentoring relationships come in many forms:

• A student ECE learning alongside an experienced educator
• A new graduate building confidence with support from a seasoned colleague
• Two established ECEs sharing strategies, challenges, and successes
• A director or pedagogical leader guiding professional learning and team growth

No matter the structure, mentoring builds trust, sparks reflection, and encourages each person to bring their full voice to the table.

When capacity is shared and strengthened across a team, early learning environments become more responsive, especially when supporting a group with a range of inclusion needs. Even in situations where additional inclusion support staff aren’t available, educators with strong foundational knowledge and practical strategies can create safe, equitable, and engaging spaces for every child.

This is where pedagogical leadership plays a key role. In order for mentoring to happen we need to offer the time, structure, encouragement, and tools. It’s not just about formal education. It’s about learning through conversation, observation, and mutual support.

Mentoring is an essential part of expanding capacity and strengthening the workforce in early learning and child care. When we support one another, we all grow. And when we grow, so does our collective ability to build inclusive, joyful environments where every child can thrive.

Check out our resource: How to be a Mentor to fine tune your mentoring skills!