Mentorship

By: Pam Miller Sallet, MSEd, EEIN Mentorship Program Coordinator

Mentorship is a type of professional development used in many fields to enhance a new or less experienced student or employee’s (mentee’s) skill and knowledge through “coaching” from a more experienced person (mentor) in the field.  The power of the mentorship experience is the relationship that is created through spending time talking and learning about topics of interest over time.  It is the individualized and flexible nature of mentorship that allows the mentee to take charge of their learning and make meaningful growth.  Self-directed learning is powerful in its impact on an individual’s career.

I have been coordinating an early childhood mentorship program for many years, and a consistent message from mentors is that the learning has been a “2-way street”, with both parties helping the other to grow in their awareness and understanding.  A surprising outcome after the formal mentorship has ended is that many participants in the program continue their relationship in some manner to check in with new questions, continue sharing resources, or delve deeper into the topic.  Evaluations have consistently shown an increase in participants’ growth in knowledge, as well as an intention to stay working in the early childhood field. 

The EEIN Mentorship Program is supported with funding from Early Supports and Services, Preschool Special Education, Childcare, and UNH EC-SEAT Program.  Staff and students working in these environments have a free resource to turn to when they want to learn more about a particular aspect of working with young children having a disability.  Please visit the website (www.eeinnh.org) for resources on:  adult learning styles, cultural competency, and the benefits of mentoring.  Mentorship is an amazing opportunity to take advantage of, whether formal or informal!