HCI Webinar Recap: Teamwork Lessons We Can Learn from Toddlers, with Hasan Merali

In the latest HCI Webinar, Dr. Jonathan H. Westover talks with Hasan Merali about teamwork lessons we can learn from toddlers! Below is a summary of the main points from their conversation! Check out the full episode and let us know what you think!

Watch the episode here:

Quick Recap

Jonathan and Hasan discussed the importance of teamwork, leadership, and organizational dynamics, drawing inspiration from children's behavior. They explored the concept of an ideal workplace, the benefits of intergenerational interactions, and the value of mentorship in the workplace. The conversation also touched on the importance of risk-taking and resilience in children, the need for breaks during the workday, and the role of reading in mental stimulation and relaxation.

Toddler Teamwork Lessons for Adults

Jonathan and Hasan begin their conversation about teamwork lessons that can be learned from toddlers. Hasan, a pediatrician and author, explains that his 15 years of experience in pediatrics and research have shown that toddler behavior maps well onto adult wellness and business leadership literature. He mentions that toddlers have two main goals in life, one of which is building relationships, and that their teamwork skills are particularly impressive.

Toddler's Mindset in Teamwork and Learning

Hasan discussed the importance of teamwork and learning from toddlers. He shared an example of a joint task that can only be accomplished by two people, highlighting the toddler's approach to clear communication, non-judgmental attitude, and physical demonstration of instructions. Hasan emphasized the toddler's mindset of shared responsibility and equal rewards, even in unequal outcomes. Jonathan agreed with Hasan's points, noting the innate cooperative component in humans.

Regaining Childlike Qualities Through Intergenerational Interactions

Jonathan asks Hasan about when people start losing childlike qualities and what can be done about it. Hasan explains that these qualities often diminish after age five, but can be regained by tapping into our "inner child" and being more intentional about cultivating them. They discuss the benefits of intergenerational interactions, such as combining retirement homes with daycares, which can help older adults rediscover play, laughter, and creativity.

Ideal Workplace: Lessons From Daycare

Hasan and Jonathan discussed the concept of an ideal workplace, drawing parallels with daycare settings. Hasan highlighted the benefits of daycare, such as flexible hours, on-site chefs, outdoor breaks, and naps, which he believes could be applied to an ideal workplace. He also suggested charging employees for every minute they stay late, as a way to discourage overwork and promote work-life balance.

Work Breaks and Productivity Strategies

Jonathan and Hasan discuss the importance of taking breaks during the workday and the challenges of implementing them. Jonathan shares his struggle to take planned breaks, despite knowing their benefits for productivity and creativity. Hasan recommends using Focus Mate, a program that provides accountability partners for work sessions, and suggests reading before bedtime as a beneficial habit. They agree on the value of reading fiction as a form of mental stimulation and relaxation, distinct from academic reading.

Mentorship in Workplace Development

Jonathan and Hasan discussed the importance of mentorship in the workplace, drawing parallels from the relationship between toddlers and their caregivers. They emphasized the role of mentors in guiding individuals towards the right projects, providing encouragement, and helping them navigate their careers. Hasan highlighted the need for a mentor to help choose the right project, ensuring it's not too easy or too challenging, and providing encouragement to push individuals further in their learning and development.

Children's Risk-Taking and Resilience Development

Jonathan and Hasan discussed the importance of risk-taking and resilience in children. Hasan shared his experience in the pediatric ER, where he observed children's high risk-taking behavior and confidence. He cited a study showing that preschoolers were the most confident in their abilities, which led to faster learning. Hasan also emphasized the value of asking questions, noting that children ask more questions than adults, which helps them gather information and build relationships.

Teamwork, Leadership, and Toddler Lessons

Jonathan and Hasan discussed the importance of teamwork, leadership, and organizational dynamics, drawing inspiration from children's behavior. Hasan shared his personal website and encouraged the audience to connect with him on LinkedIn. He also mentioned his book, which explores the lessons that can be learned from toddlers. The conversation ended with Jonathan expressing his gratitude for the insightful discussion and Hasan wishing everyone a good day.

Listen to the webinar here: