Early interventionists play a unique and essential role in supporting teachers, learners, and families, bridging expertise and care to help every child learn. In the Early Childhood Networks’ Infant-Toddler Teacher Network, Lead Teacher Julie Lutz models an approach built on teamwork, trust, and shared goals.
With more than two decades as a developmental specialist, Julie sees her work as a true educational partnership. “We’re not here to tell teachers how to do their jobs; we’re here to support them and work together,” she explains. In classrooms, that means collaborating with educators to adapt daily routines so that strategies benefit not just one child, but the entire group. For families, it’s about demystifying “early intervention” and showing how play, observation, and small adjustments can create big wins.
Julie’s approach starts with listening, inviting teachers and caregivers to share what’s going well, what’s challenging, and what strategies might help. From there, she models techniques, coaches caregivers, and celebrates progress alongside the team. “The most fun is when I get to witness the joy and confidence in both the child and the caregiver when they accomplish something new or hard-earned,” she says.
This fall and next spring, Julie will co-present professional development sessions to deepen understanding of early intervention and strengthen educator collaboration, supporting more moments of shared joy, confidence, and growth.
Details on the fall and spring professional development series will be shared soon. In the meantime, learn more about the Infant-Toddler Teacher Network and how it connects and supports early childhood educators.