Relationship Based Leadership has been written primarily for child-care leaders looking for a better way to manage their agencies—one that emphasizes cooperation rather that control; motivation from within rather that from without; and accountability to a team, more than to a boss. Such changes not only require fundamental shifts in how managers and workers think, but even greater changes in their relationships to one another. It carefully explains the basic changes needed to bring about relationship-based leadership, including principles of motivation, managing social situations, principles of team leadership, strategic planning, keys to being more effective in relationships, staff development strategies, and working through personality conflicts at all levels of an organization.

The text illustrates these concepts with case studies (derived from on-site interviews with early childhood program directors) and anecdotal experiences in actual childcare settings. The book's applied focus utilizes learning exercises that allow the reader to apply the principles and skills presented in each chapter.

Chad Richardson has worked extensively with corporate and educational organizations (including Early Head Start and Head Start) on managing change within the structure of these organizations. He teaches undergraduate and graduate courses in sociology at the University of Texas - Pan American and is also a member of the educational leadership doctoral faculty there. He has conducted research and on-site training in the area of relationship-based leadership and has published work in the area of Regional Studies and organizational sociology.

Kathleen Earle has been a Director of Child Care Centers, taught in a public school and university environment. She has conducted numerous staff development experience for childcare providers. She currently works with Head Start and Early Head Start teachers and Administrators.