The building blocks of making dough in childcare.
Carrie Casey and Kate Woodward Young
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
Send us a textIn this episode of "Child Care Conversations," Kate and Carrie dive into some helpful tips on making the most of registration fees and marketing budgets for childcare centers. They discuss using part of the registration fees to create awesome welcome packages for new families, like personalized sippy cups and local restaurant coupons. They also highlight the importance of having a marketing budget to keep current families happy and attract new ones. From sprucing up the center's appearance to engaging with the community, they share practical strategies to boost enrollment and create a welcoming environment.Support the showThanks for Listening
Send us a textIn this episode of "Child Care Conversations," we dive into the nitty-gritty of strategic planning for childcare enrollment. Kate and Carrie share some golden nuggets on prepping for the big January enrollment push. They stress the importance of gathering data from past enrollments, setting SMART goals, and refining marketing strategies.You'll learn about tracking inquiries, scheduling tours, and using standardized scripts to keep communication consistent. Plus, there are tips on recognizing referring families and tackling potential challenges. It's all about being prepared and proactive to boost your enrollment success.Support the showThanks for Listening
Send us a textIn this episode of "Child Care Conversations with Kate and Carrie," our hosts dive into the nitty-gritty of labor laws affecting early childhood care providers.Kate and Carrie break down the Department of Labor's rules on exempt vs. non-exempt employees, explaining how not all salaried workers are exempt from overtime pay. They chat about the upcoming changes in minimum salary requirements and stress the importance of understanding these laws to avoid legal hiccups.They also offer practical tips on tracking employee hours, updating staff handbooks, and preparing for new pay regulations. It's a must-listen for anyone in the childcare sector!Support the showThanks for Listening
Send us a textIn this episode of "Child Care Conversations with Kate and Carrie," our dynamic duo dives into their recent adventures at childcare conferences. They chat about their roles as authors, coaches, and trainers, sharing highlights from the Child Care Success Summit in Chicago. Kate and Carrie emphasize the power of networking and the importance of using the right terminology in the childcare industry. They also introduce their new book, "Don't Chase the Monkey," and discuss the Director Success Academy. Whether you're an owner, director, or vendor, this episode is packed with insights to help you thrive in the childcare industry!Support the showThanks for Listening
Send us a textIn this episode of "Child Care Conversations," Kate and Carrie chat with Jessica Wright from Inspire Care 360 about the all-important topic of staff retention in childcare. Jessica shares her wealth of knowledge on creating effective onboarding processes, fostering a strong culture, and offering professional development opportunities. She introduces the "six C's" framework—core values, curriculum, code of conduct, career opportunities, compliance, and culture—as key elements to keep staff engaged and happy. With practical tips and real-life examples, this episode is a goldmine for anyone looking to build a stable, motivated team in the childcare industry.Support the showThanks for Listening
Send us a textIn this episode of "Child Care Conversations with Kate and Carrie," Kate dives into strategic planning for 2025 as 2024 winds down. She discusses the importance of reflecting on the year's successes and challenges and the value of documenting these experiences. Kate also highlights the significance of celebrating staff contributions and engaging them in reflection. This episode is about preparing for a successful new year in childcare, with practical tips and heartfelt encouragement.Support the showThanks for Listening
In this episode of "Child Care Conversations," Kate and Carrie dive into the fascinating idea of "monkey management", inspired by a classic 1974 Harvard Business Review article. They share how this concept has shaped their work with childcare directors and parenting styles. The key takeaway? Don't take on others' burdens—delegate! They also discuss their upcoming book, "Don't Chase the Monkey," which promises to be a game-changer for managing responsibilities. This episode is packed with practical tips and a friendly vibe, perfect for anyone juggling multiple roles. Join their book launch team for exclusive perks by sending us a message!Support the showThanks for Listening
In this episode of "Child Care Conversations," Kate and Carrie discuss why becoming a director in early childhood education is a fantastic career move. Carrie shares her journey, aiming to own a center and stressing the importance of being director-qualified. They discuss the perks like increased earnings, making a broader impact, and career growth. However, they also touch on the challenges, from marketing to compliance. They emphasize the need for proper training and a solid support network. If you're considering becoming a child care center director, this episode is packed with insights and tips to help you succeed!Support the showThanks for Listening
In this episode of "Child Care Conversations," hosts Kate and Carrie sit down with their amazing super friend Kimberly Holiday, a councilwoman from Pflugerville, Texas. Kimberly shares her inspiring journey from early childhood education to local government, emphasizing the power of advocacy for children and families. She talks about her work with transitional housing for women and children escaping domestic violence and the importance of community engagement. Kimberly's story is a heartfelt reminder that everyone can be an advocate, and local government plays a crucial role in supporting childcare centers. Don't miss this insightful chat!Support the showThanks for Listening
In this week's episode of "Child Care Conversations," Kate and Carrie chat about the ins and outs of expanding a childcare business to multiple locations. They highlight the perks like economies of scale, cross-promotion, and increased revenue potential. Carrie shares her journey, detailing the challenges and triumphs of growing her business from one center to several. They emphasize the importance of due diligence, resource management, and having solid operational systems in place. If you're considering expanding your childcare business, this episode is packed with practical tips and heartfelt advice.Join Carrie for her free masterclass on September 14th 10am-12pm: How to start a childcare center in Texas. Register now!https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZMocOqorD0uGNEurUgvoctzje9qfo6gxVToSupport the showThanks for Listening
In this episode of "Child Care Conversations," co-hosts Kate and Carrie sit down with Erica Saccoccia, a childcare director with 25 years of experience and owner of three centers in Rhode Island. They dive into the importance of building strategic partnerships to boost enrollment and retain quality staff.Erica shares her wisdom on focusing on customer retention, fostering long-term relationships with families, and being actively involved in the community. She also talks about collaborating with other childcare centers and navigating challenges like universal pre-k initiatives. This episode is packed with practical tips to help childcare providers thrive.
In this episode of "Child Care Conversations," Carrie sits down with Kate to chat about their new book, "From Oh Sh*t to I Got This." Kate opens up about her journey as a female entrepreneur and the ups and downs of her personal life, including her two marriages. She shares valuable insights on the importance of financial independence and the power of communication in relationships. Their book is a practical guide for women facing unexpected challenges, offering tools to regain control and thrive. It's like catching up with an old friend who's full of wisdom and encouragement!Order now!igotthisbooks.com Support the Show.Thanks for Listening
In this episode of "Child Care Conversations," Kate chats with her cousin and co-author, Carrie Casey, about their upcoming book, "From Oh Sh*t to I Got This."
In this episode of "Child Care Conversations with Kate and Carrie," our dynamic duo dives into boosting staff engagement in early childhood education. They chat about motivating competent but less enthusiastic staff through positive reinforcement, mentoring, and goal-setting. Kate and Carrie emphasize the importance of recognizing good work, understanding individual motivations, and creating a supportive environment. They even sprinkle in some fun references to beloved children's characters like Fred Rogers and Miss Frizzle. It's all about fostering a positive culture where educators can thrive and feel valued. Tune in for some fantastic tips and heartfelt advice!Support the Show.Thanks for Listening
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In this episode of Child Care Conversations, Kate and Carrie chat with Sarah Schreiner, the CEO of Childminder, about the big challenges in staffing childcare programs. They dive into why attracting and keeping quality staff is crucial and how onboarding can make or break this process. Sarah shares her wisdom on hiring for values over experience and understanding different communication styles among staff. They also discuss the pitfalls of relying too much on new technologies as quick fixes. Sarah even teases an upcoming workshop to tackle these issues head-on. It's a must-listen for anyone in childcare!Support the Show.Thanks for Listening
In this podcast episode, Carrie and Kate discuss directors' challenges in managing childcare staff. They emphasize the importance of setting clear expectations and boundaries, providing necessary resources, and actively listening to staff concerns. Carrie highlights the need for directors to support and defend their staff, even when mistakes are made. At the same time, Kate underscores the broader applicability of these principles in various relationships and leadership roles. They also stress the value of self-reflection and continuous improvement for leaders.Support the Show.Thanks for Listening
In this podcast episode, Carrie and Kate discuss the importance of planning staff events and reviewing calendars to avoid missing key dates. They highlight Amazon Prime Day as an opportunity to purchase their book and workbook at a discount. They share the fun tradition of "Polka Dot Thursday" in Carrie's family and invite listeners to the Texas Workforce Commission's TRS conference. They mention their upcoming Butts in the Seats masterclass and stress the value of staff in-service days and expert-led training sessions. They also talk about their book "From Overwhelmed to I Got This," upcoming training opportunities, and expanding their director credentialing class nationally.Support the Show.Thanks for Listening
In this podcast episode, Carrie, Kate, and guest Jenna Warriner discuss the necessity of raising tuition rates in childcare centers. They provide strategies for determining appropriate increases, such as benchmarking against local centers, considering inflation, and evaluating the cost of quality care. The speakers emphasize aligning staff pay with tuition rates and ensuring budget sustainability. They also stress the importance of transparent communication with parents, recommending timely announcements and various methods like meetings and app notifications. Overall, the episode offers insights into balancing affordability with quality care and ensuring smooth family transitions.Jenna Warriner's Instagram: https://instagram.com/jennaspaige?igshid=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==Support the Show.Thanks for Listening
In this podcast episode, Carrie and Kate delve into the complexities of administering medication in childcare settings. They discuss legal, safety, and practical aspects, including medication policies, state regulations, and the importance of proper documentation. The conversation covers the challenges of distinguishing symptoms from various conditions and the legal implications of administering medication. They emphasize the necessity of following doctor's instructions, maintaining confidentiality, and ensuring proper storage and training. The episode highlights the importance of updating policies and handbooks and encourages seeking resources and training to mitigate risks associated with medication handling in childcare programs.Medication lock-box: https://amzn.to/3VMxMKXSupport the Show.Thanks for Listening
In this podcast episode, Carrie and Kate discuss the importance of hiring new staff from outside the childcare industry and the necessity of pre-service training. They advocate for recruiting individuals from fields like hospitality and retail to bring fresh perspectives. The hosts emphasize the need for thorough training, including eight-hour and 24-hour pre-service courses, to ensure new hires are well-prepared. They outline a structured 90-day onboarding process to reduce turnover and enhance staff success. Carrie and Kate also encourage listeners to visit their website for training resources and invite feedback for future episode topics.Support the Show.Thanks for Listening
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