As the head of a team, leaders play a crucial role in making it possible for children with challenging behavior to remain in childcare/school, develop positive relationships with their peers and adults, learn appropriate ways to express their needs, and be ready to learn. However, these goals can only be met when leaders believe in them and have the skills to develop and lead a team that supports them. Possessing good leadership skills is just the beginning. Acting as an advocate for children, staff, and families pulls you in all directions at once and requires you to understand and respect everyone’s needs and challenges.