In this critical episode of Foundations First, Instructor Mike delivers a bold and necessary message: love is not enough. Children deserve qualified adults—not just well-meaning ones. From emotional intelligence to developmental science, this episode outlines the training, mindset, and self-awareness that every adult needs to responsibly lead, guide, and grow with young children.

You’ll learn:

• Why good intentions can still produce developmental harm

• What real ECE certification should include (beyond checkbox training)

• How to hold yourself—and others—to a standard that reflects what children actually need

• Where to find training that strengthens your skills, not just your résumé

Drawing on adult learning theory and emotional intelligence frameworks, this episode challenges the idea that being a parent or caregiver automatically qualifies someone to lead children well. It’s not about perfection—it’s about preparation.

Because the most dangerous lie we tell ourselves is

“I’m doing fine because I care.”

But in early childhood, care without competence is still a risk.