The client is seeking a Director of Early Childhood Learning & Development to provide strategic leadership for early childhood learning and development for children from birth through age eight, and for the adults who care for them. The role focuses on championing research-informed, play-based learning experiences and positioning the organization as a leader in early childhood education, family engagement, and informal learning.
Working collaboratively across the organization, the Director develops innovative learning experiences, cultivates strategic partnerships, and ensures that exhibits, programs, and professional learning opportunities reflect current research, equity-centered practices, and the developmental needs of young children. The Director also serves as a thought leader and ambassador for The client, representing the organization in conversations about early childhood learning at local, regional, and national levels.
Key responsibilities include developing and implementing early childhood programming and engagement approaches; shaping the redesign of the early childhood area (including the Nursery) with relevant teams; translating emerging trends and research into museum practice; activating exhibit and other spaces with playful, hands-on learning experiences for young children and families; and expanding programming to reach caregivers and childcare professionals. The Director will collaborate with exhibit designers, educators, researchers, and community partners to create inclusive and developmentally appropriate experiences, integrate culturally responsive and accessible practices, use research and evaluation to strengthen visitor experiences and organizational learning, and provide leadership and mentorship through professional learning opportunities for staff and practitioners, while building and sustaining partnerships and pursuing collaborative research and grant-funded initiatives.