The building blocks of making dough in childcare.
Carrie Casey and Kate Woodward Young
Send us a textIn this episode of Child Care Conversations, you'll meet Cindy Lehnhoff, a true gem with 40+ years in childcare! Cindy shares her inspiring journey from part-time preschool teacher to VP of Operations, and dishes out practical tips on flexible staffing, creative scheduling, and why part-time roles can be a game-changer. The chat also covers staff well-being, vacation policies, and the value of professional development (and conferences with duck parades ). If you're looking for real-world wisdom and a little encouragement, this is the episode for you!Check out Summer Sponsor: Childcare Business GrowthThanks for Listening
Send us a textIn this episode of Child Care Conversations, guest host Erica of the Directors Chair Podcast turns the tables on regular hosts (and cousins) Kate and Carrie, diving into their journey as early childhood education leaders and publishers. They share heartfelt stories about resilience, building their business, and empowering women in leadership. You'll hear about their “monkey management” workshops, memorable conference moments, and how they make learning fun. Plus, they reveal exciting new projects and offer practical advice for aspiring authors and speakers. Listen to learn more about our hosts and the creators of childcare conversations! Check out our guest host on her Podcast and her episode from last year!Learn more about their speaking on their websiteCheck out Summer Sponsor: Childcare Business GrowthThanks for Listening
Send us a textIn this episode of Child Care Conversations, Kate and Carrie chat about “loveys,” those cherished comfort items kids bring to childcare with Diane Goyette. They share heartfelt stories and practical tips on why these objects matter so much for emotional regulation and security. You'll pick up resourceful ideas for managing loveys in your center, hear why every child's attachment is unique (especially for neurodiverse kids), and get reassurance that honoring these needs builds resilience. If you've ever wondered how to balance policies and compassion, this episode is a warm, knowledgeable guide. Don't forget, we are also on YouTube! Check out Diane's last episode on YouTubeCheck out Summer Sponsor: Childcare Business GrowthThanks for Listening
Send us a textIn this episode, we sit down with Hope King, founder of Black Tie Babysitting, to chat about creative ways childcare professionals can branch out beyond traditional centers. Hope shares her journey of providing event-based childcare at weddings and corporate gatherings, offering tips on partnerships, staff empowerment, and setting up safe, fun spaces for kids. It's a warm, insightful conversation packed with practical advice for anyone looking to expand their childcare business or support families in new ways.Learn more at https://blacktiebabysitting.com/Check out Summer Sponsor: Childcare Business GrowthThanks for Listening
Send us a textIn this episode, Kate and Carrie chat about making confident decisions under pressure, something every childcare leader faces! They swap real stories (like Carrie's wild tree-on-the-roof incident), tackle decision fatigue, and share clever tips for managing overflowing emails and communication chaos. You'll pick up resourceful strategies for streamlining your tech tools, setting boundaries, and handling tricky moments with a little more ease. If you've ever felt overwhelmed running a center, this is the perfect episode for you.Check out Summer Sponsor: Childcare Business GrowthThanks for Listening
Send us a textWow, this episode was a real heart-to-heart! You'll hear from Ms. Bianca and Ms. Trina of Tender Care in Milwaukee, who share their center's inspiring 46-year journey from a small church ministry to a lifeline for local families. They open up about the tough realities of childcare funding, their creative “hustles” to keep doors open, and the power of advocacy, both big and small. If you care about kids, community, or just want to feel hopeful and resourceful, this chat is for you!
Send us a textIn this episode, you'll feel like you're sitting down with old friends as they coach Yulonda—and you—through the ins and outs of using podcasts and press releases to market your childcare program. The hosts share practical tips for getting started, from overcoming nerves to using AI tools (like ChatGPT) to turn podcast transcripts into blogs and social posts. You'll learn how to amplify your message, tap into your network, and build trust with families—all without needing fancy tech or perfection. It's all about taking action and sharing your story!
Send us a textIn this episode of Child Care Conversations, the hosts sit down with Trevor Newton, a passionate early childhood educator, to chat all about “big body play”—think wrestling, tumbling, and active movement in the classroom. They share real-world tips for empowering teachers as leaders, creating safe play spaces, and building staff buy-in (book club, anyone?). Trevor and the team get personal, sharing how big body play shapes emotional growth and classroom harmony. If you're looking for practical, heartfelt advice to boost your center's energy and support your staff, this episode is a must-listen! Thanks for Listening
Send us a textIn this episode of Child Care Conversations, you'll meet Melissa McCall from North Carolina, who shares her journey blending play and literacy in early childhood education. Melissa opens up about her own daughter's struggles with early reading skills during the pandemic and how that inspired her to champion play-based, research-backed learning. You'll pick up practical tips for teachers and parents, learn why playful activities build strong literacy foundations, and discover resources to support your little learners. It's a warm, insightful chat that'll leave you feeling inspired and ready to try something new!Thanks for Listening
Send us a textIn this episode of Child Care Conversations, Kate and Carrie chat about National Breastfeeding Awareness Month and how you can support breastfeeding families in your center. They share smart, doable tips, like creating comfy breastfeeding spaces, hosting community groups, and connecting with local media and doctors. Plus, they talk about using themed awareness months to boost your curriculum and marketing. It's all about building community, supporting families, and making your center stand out. If you're looking for fresh ideas and a little encouragement, this episode is packed with both! Check out our summer sponsor: ECE Mastery/Childcare Business Growth.LaLeche League - https://lllusa.org/Thanks for Listening
Send us a textIn this episode, you'll join a warm, insightful chat about the real challenges and creative solutions in early childhood education. Noelle D'Intino shares her journey running a thriving center, renovating a church into a new facility, and building supportive networks for directors and teachers. The group dives into smart staffing (think hiring from outside childcare!), the power of collaboration over competition, and practical tips like mystery shopping and shared training. If you're looking for fresh ideas and a sense of community, this episode is a goldmine of wisdom and encouragement! Explore the Director's Club and Teacher's Lounge, two communities Noelle co-founded to empower directors and teachers.Check out our summer sponsor: ECE Mastery/Childcare Business Growth.Thanks for Listening
Send us a textKate and Carrie sit down with Dr. Teri DeLucca, founder of Impact Early Education, to chat about the real challenges early childhood leaders face, especially around behavior management and teacher self-regulation. Dr. DeLuca shares practical tips, like quick “glow and grow” check-ins and the importance of self-reflection for teachers. There's even a sneak peek at new AI tools for supporting educators. This episode is packed with relatable stories, honest advice, and actionable strategies you can use right away. Plus, you'll get a few laughs along the way!Check out Summer Sponsor: Childcare Business GrowthThanks for Listening
Send us a textIn this episode, Kate and Carrie sit down with Sara and Greg Schreiner, the dynamic duo behind ChildMYnder in Montana. They chat about how Sara's childhood passion for childcare turned into a thriving family business—despite Greg's initial reluctance (he was an engineer!). The couple shares honest stories about juggling marriage and business, expanding during the pandemic, and raising entrepreneurial kids. Their secret? Open communication, knowing each other's strengths, and plenty of laughter. If you're curious about building a business with your partner or just love a good success story, this one's for you! Check out Summer Sponsor: Childcare Business GrowthThanks for Listening
Send us a textIn this episode, Kate and Carrie sit down with Diane Goyette to chat about the real heart of early education: supporting kids' emotional needs. Diane shares her “Four C's” framework—connection, calming, compassion, and capacity building—offering practical tips for teachers and directors facing challenging behaviors. The trio swaps stories, laughs, and wisdom, all while reminding us that strong relationships and a little empathy go a long way in helping both children and adults thrive. Grab your coffee ☕ and join this warm, resourceful conversation. You'll leave with ideas you can use tomorrow!Check out Summer Sponsor: Childcare Business GrowthThanks for Listening
Send us a textPull up a chair, friend! In this episode, we chat all about what it really means to lead in childcare.
Send us a textIn this episode, Kate and Carrie sit down with Kathy Ligon from Hinge Advisors to chat about the tricky balance between purpose and profit in childcare. Kathy shares smart tips on understanding occupancy rates, bridging the communication gap between directors and owners, and why financial health is key to quality care. They swap stories, offer practical advice, and remind us that a strong financial foundation helps everyone—kids, teachers, and families—thrive. If you're in early childhood education, this episode is packed with wisdom and encouragement just for you! Childcare Broker & Daycare Business Consultants | HINGE Advisors Boost- https://www.boostbyhinge.org/Five Pillars of Purpose-Driven Profit Book by Kathy Ligon — HINGE Early Education Advisors Check out Summer Sponsor: Childcare Business GrowthThanks for Listening
Send us a textIn this episode, Kate and Carrie sit down with Carson Wagner, the heart behind Lifetime of Love Nannies in Reno. Carson shares her inspiring journey from teen caregiver to agency owner, opening up about the real-life challenges—and joys—of supporting kids with special needs. The trio chats about why hands-on experience often trumps formal education, the power of partnerships in childcare, and creative ways to diversify income. If you're curious about building a more inclusive, resourceful childcare community, this episode is packed with friendly wisdom and practical tips!Check out Summer Sponsor: Childcare Business GrowthThanks for Listening
Send us a textIn this episode, Kate and Carrie chat live from the Early Childhood Empowerment Conference with Princess Shenette Zachary, a true powerhouse in the childcare industry. She shares her inspiring journey from the entertainment biz to building a thriving childcare empire, all sparked by motherhood. We get a peek into her family's legacy, her passion for empowering kids, and her knack for helping others start their own businesses. If you're dreaming big or running a home daycare, Princess Shenette's story is packed with wisdom and encouragement. Grab a cup of coffee and tune in—you'll leave feeling motivated! Check out her new book: 100 Yard Childcare Playbook Check out her Instagram and LinkedInCheck out Summer Sponsor: Childcare Business GrowthThanks for Listening
Send us a textIn this episode, Carrie and Kate delve into the often-overlooked financial and social significance of childcare centers. They encourage providers to recognize their worth, highlighting that many centers can generate around $1 million in revenue.
Send us a textIn this episode, hosts Kate and Carrie chat with compliance expert Lynn Wenger about the importance of compliance in childcare centers. Lynn shares her journey into early education and emphasizes that compliance goes beyond just meeting licensing requirements—it includes safety protocols, brand standards, and operational processes. She introduces the "trifecta" of compliance tools: SOPs, checklists, and audits, and highlights the need for thorough staff training. The discussion also touches on creating a culture of compliance and starting with health and safety initiatives. This episode is packed with practical tips to enhance childcare quality and safety!The Compliance Alliance - https://ececompliance.com/Thanks for Listening
Send us a textIn this episode, co-hosts Kate and Carrie sit down with Latrice Galloway, the founder of the "Born to Teach" conference. Latrice shares her journey into childcare, which began when she couldn't find quality care for her son and decided to open her own center. She emphasizes the importance of team learning and hiring the right staff to create a nurturing environment. The "Born to Teach" conference, described as the "child care event of the year," promises interactive and engaging workshops. Latrice's passion for education and community shines through, making this episode a must-listen for childcare professionals. Join Kate and Carrie at the conference this July! https://www.borntoteachcon.com/Thanks for Listening
Send us a textIn this episode, hosts Kate and Carrie chat with Dr. Jamalynn Lewis, a resilient childcare provider from New Orleans. Jamalynn shares her inspiring journey into early childcare, highlighting the grit needed to navigate the industry, especially post-COVID-19. They all discuss the pandemic's impact on childcare, the struggles parents face, and the critical role of community support. Jamalynn emphasizes the importance of reducing screen time for kids and fostering hands-on learning. The episode wraps up with a call to action for better funding, resources, and community involvement in childcare. Learn more by listening today!Learn more on her Instagram @sheeo_ofchildcareThanks for Listening
Send us a textIn this episode, Kate and Carrie chat with Vernon Mason Jr., a childcare veteran with over 32 years of experience. They dive into the staffing challenges that hit childcare programs during the COVID-19 pandemic. Vernon shares his journey from running a family childcare program to becoming a keynote speaker and author. The trio discusses the importance of leadership, professional development, and engaging teachers to improve childcare quality. Vernon offers practical tips on observing classrooms and fostering a positive environment for both teachers and children. It's a must-listen for anyone in the childcare field! Thanks for Listening
Send us a textIn this episode, Kate and Carrie chat about turning ideas into actionable steps to improve childcare programs. They tackle common challenges like managing enrollment, understanding financial impacts, and creating standard operating procedures (SOPs). Key takeaways include:Understanding Enrollment Needs: Know why enrollment goals matter, including financial and ratio impacts.Creating Actionable Steps: Break down tasks into specific, manageable parts.Brain Purge Technique: Clear mental clutter by writing down all ideas and prioritizing them.Delegation: Hand off tasks to the right people.Taking Action: Start implementing ideas, even imperfectly.Celebrating Progress: Recognize and reward small achievements.Kate and Carrie's friendly, resourceful chat is like advice from old friends, making complex topics feel manageable and encouraging directors to take practical steps toward improvement. Don't miss their 250th episode and listen now!Thanks for Listening
Send us a textIn this episode, Kate and Carrie sit down with Tafta Miller, who runs two childcare centers in Monroe, Louisiana. They dive into the importance of mentorship and coaching for new directors in the childcare industry. With her 30 years of experience, Tafta shares how having a mentor could have made her early days much smoother. She offers practical advice on finding the right coach, navigating post-COVID challenges, and even how to convince owners to invest in coaching. It's a treasure trove of insights for anyone in childcare! Thanks for Listening
Send us a textIn this episode, Kate and Carrie chat with Alisha about the vital role playgrounds play in childcare settings. They dive into the benefits of investing in high-quality playground equipment versus DIY options, emphasizing safety, longevity, and return on investment. Alisha shares tips on evaluating equipment, the importance of maintenance, and how playgrounds can enhance a childcare program's marketing strategy. The conversation wraps up with insights on creating cohesive environments that align with educational philosophies. This episode is a treasure trove of practical advice for childcare providers! Learn more!https://www.nrpa.org/certification/CPSI/ https://playgroundsafety.uni.edu/training/detail/early-childhood-outdoor-play-inspector-online-certification https://playgroundsafety.org/Thanks for Listening
Send us a textIn this episode of "Child Care Conversations," co-hosts Kate and Carrie chat with Chanie Wilschanski, CEO of Schools of Excellence. Chanie shares her expertise on managing childcare programs, especially during challenging times like the COVID pandemic. She introduces the "five gears" of childcare management: enrollment, staff retention, parent engagement, financial health, and program quality. Chanie emphasizes focusing on just two gears at a time to boost productivity and avoid burnout. The discussion also covers balancing responsibilities, effective leadership, and the importance of financial transparency. It's a treasure trove of insights for anyone in childcare management! Learn more at: https://schoolsofexcellence.com/media/Thanks for Listening
Send us a textIn this episode of "Child Care Conversations," Kate and Carrie dive into the nitty-gritty of financial planning for childcare providers. They chat about the importance of having a financial safety net, humorously dubbed the "oh sh*t fund" (OSF), to handle unexpected changes like those brought by the COVID-19 pandemic. They share practical tips to build this fund, such as using registration fees, late fees, and part-time care income. The goal? To ensure your childcare business can weather any storm. With a friendly and resourceful tone, they make financial planning sound not just necessary, but totally doable! Thanks for Listening
Send us a textIn this episode of "Child Care Conversations," hosts Kate and Carrie chat with Karly, an educator and director, about the magic of integrating STEM and STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) in early childhood education. Carly shares her excitement over new materials from "Play with a Purpose," like pretend food and a dinosaur bone kit, which are transforming playtime into rich learning experiences. They discuss how these tools spark creativity, enhance vocabulary, and even involve families in the fun. From outdoor art boards to fizzy science experiments, this episode is packed with ideas to inspire imaginative play and learning.Check out our last episode with Karly!Thanks for Listening
Send us a textIn this episode of "Child Care Conversations," hosts Kate and Carrie chat with Daniel and Sasha about their innovative software, Playground, which aims to make life easier for childcare providers. Daniel shares touching stories about his family's childcare background, revealing the inspiration behind Playground. Sasha dives into the techy side, explaining features like CRM and marketing automation that help streamline operations. They both emphasize the importance of regularly evaluating your tech stack and starting small with new systems. The episode wraps up with a heartfelt discussion on Playground's mission to make quality child care accessible to all. Learn more at https://www.tryplayground.comThanks for Listening
Send us a textIn this episode of "Child Care Conversations," Kate and Carrie chat with Christy Black and Jordan Owens, franchise owners of Primrose Preschool. They dive into the importance of community involvement and how it positively impacts both staff and families.Christy and Jordan share their experiences with community outreach, like volunteering and hosting events, which not only enrich their staff's lives but also strengthen their community connections. They also touch on the value of continuous learning for leaders, emphasizing that reading is a key tool for effective leadership. It's a heartwarming and insightful discussion you won't want to miss!Thanks for Listening
Send us a textIn this episode, Kate and Carrie dive into the hot topic of staff accountability in childcare settings. They chat about the common concerns directors have regarding the work ethic of younger staff members. Carrie explores generational differences, emphasizing the importance of empathy in leadership. They stress the need for effective onboarding and training for new directors, balancing accountability with understanding. The episode encourages open communication to create a supportive work environment. Tune in for insightful tips on fostering a motivated and cohesive team! Thanks for Listening
Send us a textIn this bonus episode of "Child Care Conversations," Kate and Carrie chat with Prerna Richards, founder of "Together We Grow," and Laura Nelson, Director of Education for a multi-site program. They dive into the challenges of behavior management in childcare and how Prerna's training has transformed Laura's centers. Prerna introduces a new Behavior Specialist Certification program aimed at supporting teachers through effective coaching. Laura shares inspiring stories of improved staff retention and reduced behavior issues. It's a heartfelt discussion about collaboration, community, and the power of professional development in childcare. Resources: https://togetherwegrow.online/ www.nobleimpressionssolutions.com Thanks for Listening
Send us a textHow many leadership books do you have that are written by women? In this episode of "Child Care Conversations," Kate and Carrie discuss the lack of representation of women in leadership literature, especially in childcare.
Send us a textIn this heartwarming episode, co-hosts Kate and Carrie sit down with Heather White, a seasoned director and franchisor in the childcare industry. Heather shares her journey, emphasizing the importance of authenticity and joy in her role. She discusses the innovative practices at her franchise, including advanced security measures and preparing children for larger educational settings. Heather also highlights the supportive structure for new directors and the significance of building strong community relationships. This episode is a treasure trove of insights for anyone looking for joy and balance in childcare. Thanks for Listening
Send us a textIn this episode of "Child Care Conversations," Kate and Carrie chat with Shannon Black, Chair of the Austin SCORE chapter and a former Montessori school owner. Shannon shares her passion for supporting childcare entrepreneurs, especially women, and introduces an 11-part virtual series designed to help navigate the complexities of starting and running a childcare business.SCORE offers free mentoring and workshops, making it a fantastic resource for both new and established childcare providers. Shannon's insights and the supportive community vibe make this episode a must-listen for anyone in the childcare field. Learn more and sign up for their Starting a Childcare Center Series at SCORE Austin: https://www.score.org/dallas/score-childcare-texas-series-spring-2025Thanks for Listening
Send us a textKate and Carrie chat with Ron Shuali, an expert in playful and engaging training methods for educators. Ron introduces the concept of "unprofessional development," which focuses on fun and interactive training rather than the usual dull sessions. They discuss the importance of shifting from "should" to "could" to manage expectations and reduce stress. Ron shares practical tips like incorporating humor, encouraging creativity, and taking breaks. The episode is packed with insights on creating a joyful and effective learning environment. Don't miss Ron's upcoming workshops for more hands-on strategies! Learn more about Ron Shuali!www.ronspeaks.comhttps://unprofessionaldevelopment.wtf/Thanks for Listening
Send us a textIn this episode, Kate and Carrie chat with Gabrielle Weller, a dedicated advocate for quality child care from Albuquerque, New Mexico. Gabrielle shares her incredible journey of transforming a struggling child care center into a thriving, culturally inclusive program. She talks about the importance of high-quality early education, the challenges of funding, and the power of a positive mindset. Gabrielle's story is a testament to resilience and community support, offering valuable insights for anyone in the child care sector. Tune in for an inspiring conversation! Learn more about Gabrielle:https://eastgatekids.com/www.nmdirector.orgThanks for Listening
Send us a textIn this episode, Kate and Carrie dive into the nitty-gritty of financial forecasting for childcare centers. They chat about the impact of public pre-k funding, stressing how it leaves a gap for infant and toddler care. Carrie shares her insights on flexible staffing and care options, suggesting part-time care to match family needs. They also explore financial incentives for staff, like bonuses for less desirable shifts and referral bonuses. The key takeaway? Financial forecasting should be an ongoing process, not just a year-end task. It's all about adapting, staying proactive, and ensuring sustainability in childcare. Listen to the full episode to learn more!Thanks for Listening
Send us a textIn this episode, Kate and Carrie chat with Tracy Nardo, a seasoned expert with 36 years in early childhood education. Tracy dives into the importance of safety and licensing in childcare programs, sharing her knowledge on risk management and staff training. She emphasizes the need for comprehensive training from day one and explains the serious consequences of neglecting safety protocols, like hefty fines from OSHA. Tracy also offers practical tips for supervision and documentation, making this episode a must-listen for childcare professionals.Connect with Tracy!https://www.linkedin.com/in/tracy-nardo-b9a43a1aahttps://www.celebree.com/Thanks for Listening
Send us a textIn this episode, Kate and Carrie dive into the nitty-gritty of childcare funding in the U.S., especially with recent federal freezes. They chat about how federal government funds flow to states and childcare centers, and how disruptions can cause big headaches for providers. Carrie explains the importance of advocacy and community engagement in keeping funds flowing. They also share tips on managing financial uncertainties, like having an emergency fund and understanding the difference between layoffs and furloughs. It's all about staying informed and proactive to support our little ones and their caregivers! Link to the form to get the PDF resources:https://39aedcf3.sibforms.com/serve/MUIFAJDaaUZy2WlR8KJo4TKO35bnuq8UG-quBc1SBrki8cq7Gh7t09h9GY5P-ymO7hwwPu8sSJsVsfKBfkK4fPXUgwuG2YbGvmFW_7V1YtBoX1bY91uu5pnwwoVfIEbKNEBixGtEufRnYQQU1WSowfSN9DtS829JZVmEjguaH6iQtHMSIS5w8uxnsrZhtEDBmrwACejpAB0rigreAdvocacy Episode Links:Episode 219 - https://childcareconversations.buzzsprout.com/953587/episodes/15743966-episode-219-how-can-we-advocate-for-early-childhood-education-in-our-communities-with-super-friend-kimberly-holidayEpisode 198https://childcareconversations.buzzsprout.com/953587/episodes/14784014-episode-196-engaging-with-legislators-and-building-community-relationshipsEpisode 195https://childcareconversations.buzzsprout.com/953587/episodes/14808029-episode-195-empowering-child-care-centers-a-practical-guide-to-advocacyEpisode 194https://childcareconversations.buzzsprout.com/953587/episodes/14715495-episode-194-the-most-effective-strategies-for-advocating-in-the-texas-child-care-industryEpisode 193Thanks for Listening
Send us a textIn this episode of "Child Care Conversations with Kate and Carrie," our hosts sit down with the incredible Kelly Ramsey, a true veteran in early childhood education. Kelly shares her inspiring journey, starting as an assistant teacher in 1984 and evolving into a leader and author. Her latest book, "Stories of Resistance," highlights the powerful narratives of Black women in early childhood leadership. Kelly also dishes out some golden advice for new directors, like prioritizing staff needs, building relationships, and practicing self-care. It's a heartfelt chat about the importance of diverse stories and authentic leadership in childcare. Kelly's Website:https://www.developpeople.org/Books: Families and Educators Together: Building Great Relationships that Support Young Children https://amzn.to/3Pnni1ZThanks for Listening
Send us a textIn this episode of "Child Care Conversations," Kate and Carrie discuss the financial strategies for managing infant and toddler classrooms amid rising competition from public pre-kindergarten programs and larger childcare franchises.They address a listener's concern about losing students to public pre-k programs. Kate emphasizes highlighting their unique educational philosophy and year-round care to stand out. They discuss the potential benefits of including infants and toddlers in their program, debunking common misconceptions about the challenges involved.Carrie introduces the concept of "loss leaders" and how enrolling infants can build long-term relationships with families. They also explore alternative revenue streams like after-school care and utilizing facilities for community events. Listen to learn more!Thanks for Listening
Send us a textIn this episode of "Child Care Conversations," co-hosts Kate and Carrie sit down with Chelsea Reue, a seasoned childcare professional, to dive into the fascinating world of "secret shopping" in childcare. Chelsea, who has owned and directed childcare programs, shares her experiences visiting centers undercover as a prospective parent. She offers invaluable tips on improving tours, being honest in marketing, and understanding modern parents' needs. From hilarious anecdotes to alarming discoveries, Chelsea's insights are both entertaining and educational. If you're in the childcare industry, this episode is a must-listen! Learn more about Chelsea Reue!https://www.preschoolexchange.com/https://www.instagram.com/chelseareue/Support the showThanks for Listening
Send us a textIn this episode of "Child Care Conversations," Kate and Carrie share practical tips to help childcare centers boost inquiries and enrollments, especially at the start of the year. Kate emphasizes the importance of clear communication with staff and parents, keeping online profiles updated, and creating enticing offers. Carrie adds her thoughts on answering phone calls promptly, creating urgency, and making compelling offers to encourage immediate enrollment. They also discuss reaching out to families on waiting lists and the significance of timely communication. Their friendly chat is packed with resourceful advice to help centers attract more families. Support the showThanks for Listening
Send us a textIn this episode of "Child Care Conversations," Kate and Carrie chat with architect Daniel Turner about sprucing up childcare facilities. They dive into the pros and cons of new builds versus remodels, how to pick the right architect and budgeting tips. Daniel shares insights on making spaces inviting and safe, emphasizing the importance of thoughtful design and practical updates. They also discuss adapting to changing demographics and boosting curb appeal. Whether you're building from scratch or refreshing an existing space, this episode is packed with useful tips to create a welcoming environment for kids and families. https://www.danielscottturner.com/Free resources https://www.danielscottturner.com/childcare-best-practicesSupport the showThanks for Listening
Send us a textIn this special bonus episode of "Child Care Conversations with Kate and Carrie," moderated by Erica Saccoccia, 9 experts in the childcare field come together to focus on self-care, leadership, collaboration, advocacy, and mentorship for early childhood educators. Erica kicks things off by stressing the importance of self-care, reminding us that we can't pour from an empty cup. Jamie Wheeler talks about setting boundaries and the power of community support, while Susie Begin highlights the value of mentorship in fostering growth. The group dives into the nuances of leadership and the need for collective advocacy to bring about meaningful change. They wrap up by sharing practical self-care tips and emphasizing the importance of supporting one another. It's a heartfelt and insightful chat that brings multiple podcasts together!Support the showThanks for Listening
Send us a textIn this episode of "Child Care Conversations," co-hosts Kate and Carrie chat with Nick Williams from Child Care Business Growth, who's tuning in from the UK. They dive into the challenges childcare directors face, especially those pesky tasks that feel overwhelming. Nick shares some golden nuggets on delegating responsibilities like marketing and parent communication, so directors can focus on what they love. He also introduces the services his company offers to lighten the load, from marketing to staff recruitment.The trio also discusses the changing landscape of parent communication and the need for effective follow-up strategies. Nick even suggests using AI to streamline these processes! It's a friendly, insightful conversation packed with tips to make childcare management smoother. Don't miss it! Support the showThanks for Listening
Send us a textIn this episode of "Child Care Conversations," Kate and Carrie chat with insurance expert Blake about the ins and outs of insurance for early childhood care centers. Carrie shares a personal story about the chaos she faced when her center was damaged and she lacked business interruption insurance. Blake dives into why this type of insurance is crucial, explaining how it covers lost income during disasters. They also discuss the evolving insurance landscape, with companies tightening their belts and premiums rising. Blake offers practical advice on being proactive with insurance policies to avoid unpleasant surprises. Learn more about Blake Sanders here:ccs@aleafinsurance.comhttps://www.aleafinsurance.com/child-careSupport the showThanks for Listening