Welcome to Nourish
Below is the overview and links of your training. You will follow this, day by day, whether you are beginning full time or part time. We ask that you please do not skip ahead—slowly digest and put into practice what you learn. Weeks 8 focus on the foundations of working with children and responsive teaching, with is a priority at Nourish.
Day 36: The Why of Teaming — Connection First, Always
This session explores the powerful role that teaching teams play in shaping children’s sense of safety and belonging. Educators will reflect on how adult relationships directly impact the emotional climate of the classroom, recognizing that children are constantly observing and learning from team dynamics. The session emphasizes the idea that educators are co-regulators and models of secure relationships, working together with a shared purpose. By grounding teamwork in connection, trust, and mutual respect, educators will strengthen their ability to create environments where both children and adults can thrive.
Day 37: Stages of a Teaching Team — From Forming to Flourishing
This session introduces educators to the natural stages of team development using Tuckman’s model: forming, storming, norming, and performing. Educators will explore what each stage looks and feels like in a classroom setting, including common tension points such as onboarding new team members or navigating differing expectations. By normalizing these phases, the session helps teams move through challenges with greater awareness and intention. Educators will gain tools to support growth at each stage, fostering stronger collaboration and a more cohesive, resilient team.
Day 38: Clarity in Roles and Responsibilities
This session highlights how clear roles and shared expectations build trust, reduce conflict, and create smoother classroom operations. Educators will define the unique responsibilities of Lead Teachers, Assistants, and Floaters, while also exploring how flexibility and teamwork support the needs of the classroom. The session emphasizes that clarity is not about rigidity, but about creating a foundation where everyone understands their role and can step in to support one another. With aligned expectations, teams can work more confidently and cohesively in service of children.
Day 39: The Art of the Hand-Off
This session focuses on the importance of smooth transitions between teammates and how they directly impact classroom flow and children’s behavior. Educators will learn what a “clean hand-off” looks and sounds like, including how to communicate clearly and proactively during moments like diapering, snack time, or transitions between activities. The session emphasizes planning ahead and staying one step ahead of the classroom’s needs. By strengthening hand-off practices, teams can reduce stress, prevent confusion, and maintain a calm, responsive environment for children.
Day 40: Communication Agreements
The final session of the week supports educators in building strong, respectful communication practices within their teams. Participants will explore how to speak with kindness, clarity, and directness, and when to address concerns privately versus in the moment. The session also provides practical scripts for navigating difficult conversations and emphasizes the value of daily check-ins to stay aligned. By creating shared communication agreements, teams can build trust, prevent misunderstandings, and maintain a culture rooted in connection and accountability.