Professionals from multiple generations often work side by side in child and youth programs, bringing different experiences, perspectives, and strengths to their roles. This webinar explores how leaders can foster a workplace culture that values generational differences while avoiding assumptions that can create barriers to collaboration. We examine common characteristics associated with various generations and discuss how they may influence communication, teamwork, and professional expectations. Throughout the session, we highlight the benefits of a multigenerational workforce and share practical strategies for supporting communication, coaching and supervision, and collaboration across teams. We also explore how perspectives from each generation may shape family engagement and discuss approaches for building strong partnerships with families. As always, we highlight VLS resources and tools that support reflective leadership, effective communication, and collaborative practice in child and youth programs.
Webinar Slides
Lessons & Activities
- Training & Curriculum Specialist, Program Management, Lesson 2, Explore: Planning for Communication and Shared Decision-Making With Staff
- Training & Curriculum Specialist, Program Management, Lesson 5, Explore: Sample Family Feedback Survey
- Training & Curriculum Specialist, Communication & Language Development, Lesson 2, Apply: Starter Phrases for Reflection
- Training & Curriculum Specialist, Communication & Language Development, Lesson 4, Apply: Family Communication Preferences
- Training & Curriculum Specialist, Self & Cultural Understanding, Lesson 1, Apply: Building Positive Relationships With Staff Members
- Training & Curriculum Specialist, Family Engagement, Lesson 1, Explore: Reflecting on Families’ Roles in Your Program
- Management, Program Management, Lesson 2, Apply: Professional Onboarding Survey
- Management, Program Management, Lesson 5, Apply: Self-Assessment: Am I a Team Player?
- Management, Communication & Language Development, Lesson 4, Apply: Hot Button Activity
- Focused Topic, Using the VLS: Coaching to Enhance Practice, Lesson 3, Apply: Coach-Staff Member Agreement
- Focused Topic, Using the VLS: Coaching to Enhance Practice, Lesson 4, Apply: Coaching Competency Reflection
- Focused Topic, Leadership Essentials, Lesson 3, Explore: Flip the Assumption
Additional Courses & Supports
- Targeted Professional Development, Effective Communication With Families
- Targeted Professional Development, Developing a Strong Team: Hiring & Onboarding
- Focused Topic, Using the VLS: Coaching to Enhance Practice
- Focused Topic, Leadership Essentials
- Live Leadership Webinar, Giving Staff Voice & Choice: Leadership Strategies that Empower Staff
- Live Leadership Webinar, Coaching to Enhance Practice: Successful Strategies to Support Adult Learners