I work in childcare so I meet a lot of little people and come across a lot of different personalities. One child in particular stole my heart and changed my viewpoint on leadership/teaching and the affects it has on children. Macari is a toddler that comes from an abusive home and upbringing, and was put into foster care. Prior to being removed from the home Macari would come to daycare very sad, quiet and anti-social. He would not participate in many of the activities such as free play, learning activities or outside play as the other children. Macari would be distant and very standoffish. One day, I decided to pull Macari to the side just to see if he would open up to me as a teacher, he barely talked to me at all. I gave Macari a hug and attempted to make him feel as comfortable as possible. Sometimes children need affection from someone that genuinely cares, from that day forward Macari started to open up little by little, day by day. Fast forward 3 months later Macari was assigned to a set of warm and loving foster parents who showed him love, affection and the proper attention that he had been lacking. His behaviors and interactions changed tremendously and he also began to be an active participant in class. Macari seemed to be more warm, lots of smiling and happier. It made my heart smile watching him flourish and witnessing him develop from the love that he was receiving at home! He was eager to learn his numbers, shapes and colors. I enjoy watching him grow and Macari is proof that all children really need is love, attention, time and care!