Theory meets practical tips in this guide for leaders of early childhood programs

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.

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 FinancesChapter 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