Doing work that matters: Two decades in early childhood education and care

When I reflect on my last two decades working in early childhood education and care (ECEC), I find myself returning again and again to one simple truth: this work matters. Not in the loud, headline-grabbing way. But in the slow, quiet, deeply relational way that changes lives over time.

I’ve dedicated my career to this sector. I’ve worked across long day care, sessional kindergarten, occasional care and independent school-based settings; in privately owned settings and not-for-profit ones. I’ve held almost every role there is. I’ve been

I’ve witnessed joy and frustration, possibility and burnout, grand triumphs and heartbreaking chaos (thanks, COVID). I’ve seen educators at their very best, giving everything they have to the pursuit of the best place-based outcomes for children. And in this giving, I’ve noticed their hearts, not just their time and skill, in holding space for young children and their families and making a difference in their communities.

And through it all, the voice in my head (and heart) just keeps getting louder.

This. Work. Matters.

The past decade or so has brought rapid shifts.

We’ve navigated increasingly complex demands, workforce instability, funding challenges and the often invisible weight of emotional labour as we care for future generations. For many, the work has become heavier.

But still, the sector shows up.

Because: This. Work. Matters.

Connections are vital

We read stories, wipe away tears and kneel beside small people to whisper words of encouragement. We hold the line between chaos and calm. We walk with families in their most vulnerable seasons—through transitions, new learning and growth. We collectively believe in the power of this profession, even when the systems around us seem like they’ll never fit quite right.

Through this all, I’ve learnt a thing or two—the power of connection and love keeps us focused through any change that comes our way.

For me, this means:

It’s about more than caring for children

And finally, I’ve learnt that we need to keep coming back to purpose. Because purpose can hold us when the pressure rises. It reminds us why we chose this—and why it keeps choosing us.

Because: This. Work. Matters.

We are not just caring for children. We are shaping the memories they will carry throughout their lives. We are creating the emotional architecture of belonging, trust and identity.

One day, a child will look back and remember the educator who made them feel safe. The educator who waited patiently as they painstakingly put on their jacket (inside out, of course). The educator who sang their favourite song every morning without fail.

This. Work. Matters.

This work matters, and your voice matters—join us

If you’d like to join this discussion and hear more of Sarah Louise’s thoughts on why early childhood education matters, she’ll be joining Xplor Education for ECEC Conversations. The first session focused on attracting and retaining top talent. The next session on 24 July will see Sarah Louise Nelson and Melanie Hanson (Ipswich East State School OSHC) join Tracy Kilpady, Xplor Education’s Manager of Education, to discuss the significant role administrators, educators and service owners play in shaping the lives of families and children.

Be part of the conversation and tell us why early childhood education matters to you. Join us on Thursday, 24 July, for Unlocking Impact: Access and Innovation in Early Learning. Let’s come together and grow, one conversation at a time.

Sarah Louise is a career early childhood teacher, pedagogical leader and lifelong learner. She has dedicated her multi-decades-long career to pursuing kindness in the workplace and developing leaders at all levels of organisations. Through her consultancy, Sarah Louise Consultancy, she thrives on the challenge of working with highly diverse groups of early childhood professionals across the sector spectrum. With formal qualifications in education, research and leadership, Sarah Louise is a committed advocate for children, social justice and the early years workforce.