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With so many demands and limited time, being an early childhood program leader is more challenging than it’s ever been. This guide, grounded in current research and based on the experiences of the authors as well as directors from across the country, blends theory with practical tips you can implement immediately. Each chapter provides the building blocks you need to:
-Develop effective policies and procedures that work for your program
-Manage a healthy budget
-Build a strong staff
-Forge robust home–school partnerships with children’s families
-Handle confrontation and conflict
-Achieve and maintain full enrollment in your center
Plus, each chapter recommends additional resources you can explore to take your knowledge and professional development to the next level. Use the guidance and strategies contained in this book to go from surviving in your role as director to thriving in it.
Not since Paula Jorde Bloom’s work on quality leadership for directors have I seen a resource so thorough. From Survive to Thrive is an essential guide for any current or aspiring director to use in actively preparing for and successfully navigating the many aspects of leadership in early childhood education. College professors teaching ECE administration will find this an invaluable book for teaching others how to become effective leaders.
—Linda S. Anderson, Adjunct Professor, Aurora University and Rasmussen College
A much-needed book for anyone taking on the job of directing an early childhood program. With its comprehensive, detailed discussion of the many facets of this position, this resource will find a special place on all new directors’ desks.
—David Elkind, Professor Emeritus of Child Development, Tufts University
LeeKeenan and Ponte remind early childhood education leaders that we have the best job in the world! We are engineers, conductors, participants in play. We can ignite imaginations one minute, then wipe children’s tears, reassure adults, and guide the growth of teachers in the next. The authors examine true-to-life program scenarios in concrete, intentional ways and provide tips and ideas that are helpful for all directors. As a 45-year veteran director, I recommend this book to any early childhood leader who seeks to thrive at this job.
—Johanna Booth-Miner, Director and Owner, Live & Learn Early Learning Center
- Preface
- Chapter 1: What Does It Mean to Be a Director?
- Chapter 2: Program Context and Culture
- Chapter 3: Achieving and Maintaining Program Quality
- Chapter 4: Budget and Finances
- Chapter 5: Program Curriculum
- Chapter 6: Observation, Assessment, and Documentation
- Chapter 7: Staffing
- Chapter 8: Working with Families
- Chapter 9: Center Enrollment
- Conclusion: Balancing Act—Managing Your Role as the Director
- References
- Acknowledgments
- About the Authors