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In 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-b9a43a1aa

https://www.celebree.com/

Thanks for Listening 🎧

• Want to learn more? Check out our book; "From Overwhelmed to I Got This: Guaranteed Success Route to Directing Your Childcare Center" 📖
• Join our Facebook Group for Childcare professionals!
• Join our Podcast Newsletter!
• Want to be a guest on our podcast? Go to our website to learn more.
• Are you looking for director training in Texas? Check out our Texas Director Website for our training and additional resources!

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In 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_7V1YtBoX1bY91uu5pnwwoVfIEbKNEBixGtEufRnYQQU1WSowfSN9DtS829JZVmEjguaH6iQtHMSIS5w8uxnsrZhtEDBmrwACejpAB0rigre

Advocacy 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-holiday

Episode 198

https://childcareconversations.buzzsprout.com/953587/episodes/14784014-episode-196-engaging-with-legislators-and-building-community-relationships

Episode 195

https://childcareconversations.buzzsprout.com/953587/episodes/14808029-episode-195-empowering-child-care-centers-a-practical-guide-to-advocacy

Episode 194

https://childcareconversations.buzzsprout.com/953587/episodes/14715495-episode-194-the-most-effective-strategies-for-advocating-in-the-texas-child-care-industry

Episode 193

Thanks for Listening 🎧

• Want to learn more? Check out our book; "From Overwhelmed to I Got This: Guaranteed Success Route to Directing Your Childcare Center" 📖
• Join our Facebook Group for Childcare professionals!
• Join our Podcast Newsletter!
• Want to be a guest on our podcast? Go to our website to learn more.
• Are you looking for director training in Texas? Check out our Texas Director Website for our training and additional resources!

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In 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/3Pnni1Z

Thanks for Listening 🎧

• Want to learn more? Check out our book; "From Overwhelmed to I Got This: Guaranteed Success Route to Directing Your Childcare Center" 📖
• Join our Facebook Group for Childcare professionals!
• Join our Podcast Newsletter!
• Want to be a guest on our podcast? Go to our website to learn more.
• Are you looking for director training in Texas? Check out our Texas Director Website for our training and additional resources!

Send us a text

In 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 🎧

• Want to learn more? Check out our book; "From Overwhelmed to I Got This: Guaranteed Success Route to Directing Your Childcare Center" 📖
• Join our Facebook Group for Childcare professionals!
• Join our Podcast Newsletter!
• Want to be a guest on our podcast? Go to our website to learn more.
• Are you looking for director training in Texas? Check out our Texas Director Website for our training and additional resources!

Send us a text

In 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/

Thanks for Listening 🎧

• Want to learn more? Check out our book; "From Overwhelmed to I Got This: Guaranteed Success Route to Directing Your Childcare Center" 📖
• Join our Facebook Group for Childcare professionals!
• Join our Podcast Newsletter!
• Want to be a guest on our podcast? Go to our website to learn more.
• Are you looking for director training in Texas? Check out our Texas Director Website for our training and additional resources!

Send us a text

In 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. 

Thanks for Listening 🎧

• Want to learn more? Check out our book; "From Overwhelmed to I Got This: Guaranteed Success Route to Directing Your Childcare Center" 📖
• Join our Facebook Group for Childcare professionals!
• Join our Podcast Newsletter!
• Want to be a guest on our podcast? Go to our website to learn more.
• Are you looking for director training in Texas? Check out our Texas Director Website for our training and additional resources!

Send us a text

Thanks for Listening 🎧

• Want to learn more? Check out our book; "From Overwhelmed to I Got This: Guaranteed Success Route to Directing Your Childcare Center" 📖
• Join our Facebook Group for Childcare professionals!
• Join our Podcast Newsletter!
• Want to be a guest on our podcast? Go to our website to learn more.
• Are you looking for director training in Texas? Check out our Texas Director Website for our training and additional resources!

Send us a text

Thanks for Listening 🎧

• Want to learn more? Check out our book; "From Overwhelmed to I Got This: Guaranteed Success Route to Directing Your Childcare Center" 📖
• Join our Facebook Group for Childcare professionals!
• Join our Podcast Newsletter!
• Want to be a guest on our podcast? Go to our website to learn more.
• Are you looking for director training in Texas? Check out our Texas Director Website for our training and additional resources!

Send us a text

In 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-practices

Thanks for Listening 🎧

• Want to learn more? Check out our book; "From Overwhelmed to I Got This: Guaranteed Success Route to Directing Your Childcare Center" 📖
• Join our Facebook Group for Childcare professionals!
• Join our Podcast Newsletter!
• Want to be a guest on our podcast? Go to our website to learn more.
• Are you looking for director training in Texas? Check out our Texas Director Website for our training and additional resources!

Send us a text

In 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!

Thanks for Listening 🎧

• Want to learn more? Check out our book; "From Overwhelmed to I Got This: Guaranteed Success Route to Directing Your Childcare Center" 📖
• Join our Facebook Group for Childcare professionals!
• Join our Podcast Newsletter!
• Want to be a guest on our podcast? Go to our website to learn more.
• Are you looking for director training in Texas? Check out our Texas Director Website for our training and additional resources!