ABSTRACT
This chapter outlines the benefits of working in teams, explains the significance of a positive organisational culture for the establishment of effective teams and describes the stages of team development and identifies their importance and different types of teams and the different structures of multi-disciplinary teams. The chapter articulates the six aspects of effective team development and the capabilities needed to work with and lead multi-disciplinary teams and explores the aspects that support or challenge effective multi-disciplinary teamwork. Early childhood leaders use models of team development to assist teams in their growth. They are committed to modelling a willingness to learn from others, value diverse expertise and work to strengthen team members’ interpersonal relationships. Teams may include professionals from different backgrounds—educators, teachers, leaders, social workers, school psychologists, nurses, speech therapists etc. each providing specific services to children and their families.
