Dr. Junlei Li

Biography

Junlei Li is a Saul Zaentz Senior Lecturer at the Harvard Graduate School of Education, specializing in Early Childhood Education. His research practice focuses on understanding and supporting the work of helpers who serve children and families at the frontlines of education and social services. Li has studied and learned from a wide range of developmental settings with limited resources while advocating for high-quality practices in orphanages, childcare facilities, classrooms, and community youth programs. He developed the 'Simple Interactions' approach to help identify how ordinary people engage with children during everyday moments, which forms the basis for promoting positive systemic change. Li delivers keynote presentations and workshops at national, state, and international conferences, aimed at improving practices, programs, and policies for children, families, and professionals, with a particular emphasis on early childhood development. He teaches ways to enhance human interactions and support adult helpers. Li serves on several advisory panels and boards, including Child Care Aware America and the National Center for Family Community Engagement. His work is significantly influenced by the pioneering efforts of Fred Rogers, creator of 'Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood'.

Research Interests