Barnehageledelse i lys av erfaringer fra pandemien

This article is based on diary notes written by ECEC (Early Childhood Education and Care) employees and leaders during the COVID-19 pandemic. The responsibilities and tasks of the leaders are examined through the following research question: How can the experiences of ECEC employees and leaders during a time of extraordinary conditions reveal the leadership knowledge required in early childhood education? The material reflects a period in which leaders had to balance the expectation of upholding the kindergarten’s pedagogical mandate with other considerations. They emerge as administrative managers, personnel leaders, and pedagogical leaders of a professional enterprise. By focusing on experiences from an exceptional time, the study highlights fundamental values and knowledge that are crucial for ECEC leaders to possess. Among other findings, the study shows that the leader’s understanding of pedagogical work is essential for realizing the kindergarten’s purpose – even in times of crisis.