ChildCare Conversations with Kate and Carrie

Carrie Casey and Kate Woodward Young

Kate and Carrie have over 62 years in the childcare business industry and bring that background to their conversations. Having worked with over 5000 childcare programs across the country in the last 30 years together they are a fun and powerful team - ready to help you tackle your problems with practical solutions.

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Episode 199: How Can Certification Programs Support Early Childhood Educators in Coaching and Mentoring?

Episode 199: How Can Certification Programs Support Early Childhood Educators in Coaching and Mentoring?

In this podcast episode, Carrie, Kate, and guest Prerna Richards discuss a new certification program aimed at coaching and mentoring early childhood education teachers. Prerna introduces the program, which is designed to help individuals such as education managers and directors support classroom teachers. The conversation covers the program's commitment, content, and the benefits of providing a career path for teachers. Prerna emphasizes the importance of equipping educators with coaching skills to avoid burnout and ensure success in their roles. The episode also touches on the international interest in the program and its focus on practical application and community learning. The hosts express enthusiasm for the program's potential to uplift teachers and improve early learning environments.https://togetherwegrow.online/behavior-intervention-specialist-certification/The certification is offered over three days:May 9th, May 21st and June 6thAll sessions are from 12:00-2:00 CST PM.Are you tired of feeling overwhelmed and exhausted in your early childhood education program? Are challenging behaviors draining joy from your classrooms? Together We Grow is here to help you turn the tide and create a culture of excellence, joy, and growth.Support the Show.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" 📖 Like us on Facebook! 👍 Contact us if you have any questions or have a good idea for a future episode! Are you looking for a good director training? Check out our Website for our training and additional resources!

Episodes

Episode 199: How Can Certification Programs Support Early Childhood Educators in Coaching and Mentoring?

Episode 199: How Can Certification Programs Support Early Childhood Educators in Coaching and Mentoring?

In this podcast episode, Carrie, Kate, and guest Prerna Richards discuss a new certification program aimed at coaching and mentoring early childhood education teachers. Prerna introduces the program, which is designed to help individuals such as education managers and directors support classroom teachers. The conversation covers the program's commitment, content, and the benefits of providing a career path for teachers. Prerna emphasizes the importance of equipping educators with coaching skills to avoid burnout and ensure success in their roles. The episode also touches on the international interest in the program and its focus on practical application and community learning. The hosts express enthusiasm for the program's potential to uplift teachers and improve early learning environments.https://togetherwegrow.online/behavior-intervention-specialist-certification/The certification is offered over three days:May 9th, May 21st and June 6thAll sessions are from 12:00-2:00 CST PM.Are you tired of feeling overwhelmed and exhausted in your early childhood education program? Are challenging behaviors draining joy from your classrooms? Together We Grow is here to help you turn the tide and create a culture of excellence, joy, and growth.Support the Show.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" 📖 Like us on Facebook! 👍 Contact us if you have any questions or have a good idea for a future episode! Are you looking for a good director training? Check out our Website for our training and additional resources!

Episode 198: The Most Innovative Business Models for Childcare Programs

Episode 198: The Most Innovative Business Models for Childcare Programs

In this podcast episode, Carrie and Kate explore various business models for starting a childcare business, including nature-based preschools, partnerships with faith-based entities, and collaborations with dance or martial arts studios. They also consider the potential for working with schools or businesses to provide childcare services. The hosts emphasize the importance of planning and understanding the cycles involved in starting a childcare program. They conclude by encouraging listeners to share the episode with potential childcare entrepreneurs and to engage with their content online for further learning.Support the Show.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" 📖 Like us on Facebook! 👍 Contact us if you have any questions or have a good idea for a future episode! Are you looking for a good director training? Check out our Website for our training and additional resources!

Episode 197: Is Expanding Your Child Care Center the Right Move for You?

Episode 197: Is Expanding Your Child Care Center the Right Move for You?

In this podcast episode, Carrie and Kate discuss the complexities of expanding a childcare center. They cover the benefits of scaling up, the timing of enrollment spikes, and the importance of market demand, zoning, and financial considerations. The speakers highlight the need for thorough due diligence, such as understanding local market dynamics, checking licensing reports, and community perception. They also suggest consulting with a business broker experienced in the childcare sector.Support the Show.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" 📖 Like us on Facebook! 👍 Contact us if you have any questions or have a good idea for a future episode! Are you looking for a good director training? Check out our Website for our training and additional resources!

Episode 196: Engaging with Legislators and Building Community Relationships

Episode 196: Engaging with Legislators and Building Community Relationships

In this podcast episode, Carrie and Kate explore the significance of advocacy in the early childcare sector. They highlight the benefits of joining professional organizations and networking to amplify voices in the industry. The duo offers actionable advice on how to effectively engage with legislators and participate in advocacy initiatives. They discuss the power of forming personal connections within the community, such as with local coffee shop owners, to foster mutual support. The conversation also touches on the broader implications of community engagement and the importance of being involved in various groups beyond childcare associations to advocate for diverse causes. Carrie and Kate conclude by encouraging listeners to leverage their networks and passions to advocate for meaningful change in their communities.Support the Show.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" 📖 Like us on Facebook! 👍 Contact us if you have any questions or have a good idea for a future episode! Are you looking for a good director training? Check out our Website for our training and additional resources!

Episode 195: Empowering Child Care Centers: A Practical Guide to Advocacy

Episode 195: Empowering Child Care Centers: A Practical Guide to Advocacy

In this episode, Carrie and Kate outline a strategy for advocating childcare tax reduction in Pflugerville, Texas. They discuss identifying city council members, researching legislation, and contacting officials with a clear proposal. Emphasizing community involvement, they suggest attending local events, like Farm Day, to promote childcare programs. While focused on Pflugerville, they invite discussions on similar issues in other areas, noting they don't reside or work in Pflugerville to maintain transparency. The episode is a guide for effective advocacy and community engagement. Check out parts 1 and 2 of our advocacy program to learn more and check back next week for more!Support the Show.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" 📖 Like us on Facebook! 👍 Contact us if you have any questions or have a good idea for a future episode! Are you looking for a good director training? Check out our Website for our training and additional resources!

Episode 194: The Most Effective Strategies for Advocating in the Texas Child Care Industry

Episode 194: The Most Effective Strategies for Advocating in the Texas Child Care Industry

In part two of the Childcare Conversations advocacy series, Kate and Carrie focus on the vital role of advocacy in the early childhood profession, particularly in Texas. They stress that professionals are more than caretakers; they have a powerful voice to influence the childcare industry and policy. The duo provides practical advice on engaging with legislators, especially during Texas's off-season legislative periods, to foster relationships and discuss childcare issues. They suggest inviting legislators to events, using photo opportunities, and keeping them informed via mailing lists. Carrie also highlights the importance of researching legislators' interests to connect on a personal level and utilizing professional associations for advocacy support. The episode is a guide for early childhood professionals to effectively advocate for their industry in Texas.Support the Show.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" 📖 Like us on Facebook! 👍 Contact us if you have any questions or have a good idea for a future episode! Are you looking for a good director training? Check out our Website for our training and additional resources!

Episode 193: Why is Advocacy Essential in the Child Care Industry?

Episode 193: Why is Advocacy Essential in the Child Care Industry?

In part one of the Childcare Conversations advocacy series, Carrie and Kate emphasize the critical role of advocacy in the childcare industry, focusing on legislative actions in Texas. They discuss the importance of education and speaking up for the sector and children, highlighting a legislative directive on tax credits for childcare centers. They urge early childhood professionals to become advocates and inform others about industry issues. The hosts conclude with a call to action for listeners to get involved in advocacy and tune in for more discussions on the topic in future episodes.Support the Show.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" 📖 Like us on Facebook! 👍 Contact us if you have any questions or have a good idea for a future episode! Are you looking for a good director training? Check out our Website for our training and additional resources!

Episode 192: How Can Child Care Centers Prevent Poisoning Risks?

Episode 192: How Can Child Care Centers Prevent Poisoning Risks?

In this week's episode, Carrie and Kate discuss Poison Prevention Week and how important this topic is for childcare centers. They identify common hazards such as cleaning supplies, medications, hand sanitizer, plants, and electronic toys. The duo emphasizes the necessity of proper labeling and secure storage of toxic substances to prevent accidental poisonings among children. They also discuss recognizing poisoning symptoms and the increased use of hand sanitizer, particularly due to the pandemic, noting its potential toxicity. The conversation underscores the importance of vigilance in childcare environments to protect children from various poisoning risks.Support the Show.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" 📖 Like us on Facebook! 👍 Contact us if you have any questions or have a good idea for a future episode! Are you looking for a good director training? Check out our Website for our training and additional resources!

Episode 191: Planning and Marketing Summer Programs: Tips for Reaching Potential Clients

Episode 191: Planning and Marketing Summer Programs: Tips for Reaching Potential Clients

In this episode, hosts Kate and Carrie focus on the crucial task of planning and marketing summer programs for childcare centers. They emphasize the need for early preparation and the use of a well-maintained prospect list to reach potential clients. The hosts suggest innovative marketing tactics, like themed attire and props, to make a memorable impression at community events. They also propose distributing activity-filled paper bags at kids' sporting events to engage parents. Additionally, they discuss the importance of offering unique summer camp themes and activities, managing school-age children effectively, and the financial advantages of providing quality summer programs.Support the Show.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" 📖 Like us on Facebook! 👍 Contact us if you have any questions or have a good idea for a future episode! Are you looking for a good director training? Check out our Website for our training and additional resources!

Episode 190: Spring Conference Season

Episode 190: Spring Conference Season

In this podcast episode, early childhood education professionals Kate and Carrie discuss their packed schedule of upcoming conferences and presentations. They highlight the importance of attending these events for professional development and networking. They also touch on their director credentialing program and its positive impact on early childhood programs. The hosts encourage directors to share their accomplishments and look out for the chance to be recognized as a Super Director in Texas. The episode wraps up with a reminder of the value of self-promotion and an invitation for listeners to engage with their content online.Support the Show.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" 📖 Like us on Facebook! 👍 Contact us if you have any questions or have a good idea for a future episode! Are you looking for a good director training? Check out our Website for our training and additional resources!

Episode 189: How Can Childcare Directors Build Positive Relationships with Licensing Representatives?

Episode 189: How Can Childcare Directors Build Positive Relationships with Licensing Representatives?

In this week's episode, Kate and Carrie discuss strategies for childcare directors to build positive relationships with licensing representatives. They advise on proactive communication, seeking input on program developments, and overcoming apprehension towards reps. Kate and Carrie suggest gestures of hospitality during visits and stress the importance of professionalism and documentation. Their tips are based on extensive industry experience, aiming to help directors foster collaborative partnerships with licensing reps to enhance childcare program quality.Support the Show.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" 📖 Like us on Facebook! 👍 Contact us if you have any questions or have a good idea for a future episode! Are you looking for a good director training? Check out our Website for our training and additional resources!

Episode 188: The Most Effective Strategies for Navigating Licensing Inspections

Episode 188: The Most Effective Strategies for Navigating Licensing Inspections

In this episode, hosts Kate and Carrie delve into the intricacies of licensing inspections for childcare centers. They discuss the importance of a proactive approach, positive relationships with inspectors, and immediate issue resolution. They also cover the appeals process for citations and underscore the value of thorough documentation, including video recording inspections. They advise childcare directors to be present during inspections, take timely corrective actions, and maintain a constructive attitude. The episode concludes with a call for continuous learning and leveraging peer support to navigate the complexities of childcare licensing.Support the Show.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" 📖 Like us on Facebook! 👍 Contact us if you have any questions or have a good idea for a future episode! Are you looking for a good director training? Check out our Website for our training and additional resources!

Episode 187: The Most Essential Tips for Setting Up an Infant Classroom

Episode 187: The Most Essential Tips for Setting Up an Infant Classroom

In this podcast episode, Kate and Carrie explore the nuances of setting up an infant classroom within a childcare center. Carrie shares her expertise in optimizing budget and space, advising against overcrowding with excessive equipment and suggesting the use of smaller cribs for both financial and developmental benefits. The conversation covers practical tips on sourcing affordable cribs, planning for evacuation, and meeting specific room requirements. Carrie also discusses the importance of a tailored infant curriculum and the role of toys in infant development. Additionally, they touch upon the infant room as a loss leader in childcare business strategy, emphasizing its long-term value despite higher costs. The episode concludes with an offer of further assistance to listeners interested in developing their infant care programs, contact us for business coaching and help. Blog post about opening an infant room: https://texasdirector.org/infant-classroom/Support the Show.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" 📖 Like us on Facebook! 👍 Contact us if you have any questions or have a good idea for a future episode! Are you looking for a good director training? Check out our Website for our training and additional resources!

Episode 186: How to Start a Childcare Center in Texas

Episode 186: How to Start a Childcare Center in Texas

In this podcast episode, Kate and Carrie explore the multifaceted process of opening a childcare center in Texas. They cover the importance of aligning educational philosophy with the center's physical environment, financial planning, and understanding credit requirements. The discussion includes the need for proper qualifications, managing business operations, and complying with zoning and building codes. They also address the practicalities of remodeling a building for childcare use, ensuring renovations meet licensing standards and the importance of marketing and clear signage. Operational policies, licensing steps, and the value of a grand opening event are also discussed, providing a comprehensive guide for starting a child care center.Read the blog post: https://texasdirector.org/how-to-open-a-daycare-in-texas/Support the Show.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" 📖 Like us on Facebook! 👍 Contact us if you have any questions or have a good idea for a future episode! Are you looking for a good director training? Check out our Website for our training and additional resources!

Episode 185: The Most Effective Strategies for Navigating Insurance Hurdles in Child Care Programs

Episode 185: The Most Effective Strategies for Navigating Insurance Hurdles in Child Care Programs

In this podcast episode, Kate and Carrie explore the difficulties childcare programs in Texas face in securing insurance. They discuss how weather-related damages, lawsuits, and increased scrutiny from insurers contribute to these challenges. The speakers emphasize the importance of childcare directors taking proactive steps to mitigate risks, such as showcasing safety measures and considering lease adjustments, to help reduce insurance costs and navigate the shrinking pool of coverage options. They suggest that directors stay informed and seek professional advice to better manage their insurance issues.Support the Show.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" 📖 Like us on Facebook! 👍 Contact us if you have any questions or have a good idea for a future episode! Are you looking for a good director training? Check out our Website for our training and additional resources!

Episode 184: How Can We Keep Kids Entertained on Rainy Days at your Childcare Center?

Episode 184: How Can We Keep Kids Entertained on Rainy Days at your Childcare Center?

In this podcast episode, Kate and Carrie explore strategies to entertain children at your childcare center during the challenging winter months. They discuss the benefits of inviting external partners to conduct fun activities, such as tumbling, dance parties, music programs, and even visits from community helpers like firefighters and police officers. They consider the importance of aligning with the school's philosophy and adhering to regulations, especially when involving animals. The conversation also covers the marketing advantages of collaborating with local businesses and the importance of creating memorable experiences for children, while providing a respite for teachers.Support the Show.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" 📖 Like us on Facebook! 👍 Contact us if you have any questions or have a good idea for a future episode! Are you looking for a good director training? Check out our Website for our training and additional resources!

Episode 183: Navigating After School Program Regulations: Insights and Strategies

Episode 183: Navigating After School Program Regulations: Insights and Strategies

In this week's episode, co-hosts Kate and Carrie delve into the intricacies of after-school programs, particularly focusing on the licensing requirements and the shift in terminology to "out of school time." Drawing from Kate's expertise as the executive director of the Texas Afterschool Association, they explore the impact of licensing on funding, professional development, and insurance. The discussion also covers exemptions, the role of professional associations, and the importance of compliance with regulations. The episode wraps up by encouraging listener engagement to aid in improving after-school programs.Support the Show.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" 📖 Like us on Facebook! 👍 Contact us if you have any questions or have a good idea for a future episode! Are you looking for a good director training? Check out our Website for our training and additional resources!

Episode 182: Unleashing Your Potential: The Ultimate Childcare Director Retreat

Episode 182: Unleashing Your Potential: The Ultimate Childcare Director Retreat

In this episode, Kate, Carrie, and Vicki delve into the significance of retreats for childcare directors and leaders. They explore the advantages of taking time for self-care and professional rejuvenation. Vicki Maertz shares insights into the distinctive features of her retreats, emphasizing their tailored approach to the needs of childcare professionals. The trio also previews an upcoming retreat, detailing the planned activities and reflecting on the positive effects these experiences have on attendees' personal and professional lives.Link to Vickie Maertz's spring 2024 retreat: https://bit.ly/48DRqOaVickie's business is Physical and Academic Learning Services and can be found at https://www.palsotclinic.com/Support the Show.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" 📖 Like us on Facebook! 👍 Contact us if you have any questions or have a good idea for a future episode! Are you looking for a good director training? Check out our Website for our training and additional resources!

Episode 181: The most effective strategies for addressing developmental concerns in children.

Episode 181: The most effective strategies for addressing developmental concerns in children.

In this episode of Child Care Conversations, hosts Kate and Kerry discuss a challenging situation in a school with guest Vicki Morris, an occupational therapist. Vicki provides insights on addressing developmental concerns in children, emphasizing the importance of understanding a child's developmental milestones, observing their behavior, and assessing their routines and environment. She suggests involving outside professionals for assessments and advises on the timing and approach of discussing concerns with parents. The episode also highlights the importance of directors managing their emotions and seeking support when needed. Vicki also discusses the need for individualized adaptations for children with the same diagnosis.Support the Show.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" 📖 Like us on Facebook! 👍 Contact us if you have any questions or have a good idea for a future episode! Are you looking for a good director training? Check out our Website for our training and additional resources!

Episode 180: From Overwhelm to Celebration: Making December Manageable in Childcare

Episode 180: From Overwhelm to Celebration: Making December Manageable in Childcare

In this podcast episode, Kate and Carrie discuss the challenges faced by childcare centers during December. They offer tips on managing staff leave requests, handling parents' payment concerns during closures, and planning holiday activities. Learn how to proactively plan, prioritize tasks, and move end-of-year reports to January to ease the workload. They also emphasize the importance of self-care for directors and celebrating staff. Carrie proposes delegating tasks, hosting team-building activities, and even hiring cheerleaders to boost morale. Kate and Carrie also highlight the value of having a parent volunteer to assist in organizing events. The key takeaway is to plan and make December manageable and enjoyable for everyone.Support the Show.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" 📖 Like us on Facebook! 👍 Contact us if you have any questions or have a good idea for a future episode! Are you looking for a good director training? Check out our Website for our training and additional resources!