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Overview Module One

An “on the floor” leader in childcare has many roles and responsibilities.

An “on the floor” leader in childcare may have titles such as Director, Manager, ECE, Floor Manager, and Site Manager. The variety of titles represents a variety of roles and responsibilities.

Module one should leave you with the understanding that childcare sites have different leadership structures. Whatever the title, it is important that they are trained Early Childhood Educators who are leading Early Childhood programs. Having skilled and educated Early Childhood Educators leading, ensures that choices are made from an understanding of the field.

Roles and Responsibilities

Roles and responsibilities of an “on the floor leader” include but are not limited to:

  • create a cohesive team culture that prioritizes the well-being of children and families

  • actively mentor staff to ensure care and practices align with the organization’s values, philosophy and policies

  • model respectful and inclusive interactions

  • encourage staff to build trust-based relationships

  • recognize and work from staff strengths, building relationships to understand and support their needs, and empowering them to grow and thrive both individually and collectively

  • act as a supportive resource when families have concerns or require support

  • Support families understand policies and procedures that impact their child’s care

  • ensure staffing qualifications, ratios, and health and safety practices are followed

  • advocate for family voices in decision-making processes and ensure their needs are heard

  • work to resolve issues in a way that upholds the rights of all parties and reinforces a positive environment for everyone involved

  • mediate conflicts involving staff, children, or families with sensitivity and professionalism

  • provide orientations and training opportunities to help staff develop skills in family engagement, cultural responsiveness, and trauma-informed care

  • guide staff on integrating responsive practices into curriculum planning and communication

The Child Care Sector Human Resources Council's HR Toolkit contains a chapter on supervision, another excellent resource for reviewing the roles and responsibilities of managers and supervisors.

Reference

Childcare Human Resources Sector Council (n.d.). Supervision. HR Toolkit. https://www.ccsc-cssge.ca/hr-resource-centre/hr-toolkit/retention/supervision