How Directors Can and Should Support Staff

July 17, 2023
By Tammy Barrows

Being a director in the early childhood field isn’t easy. In fact, most days it’s downright overwhelming with all of the things that need to happen every day to operate a successful program. There are so many moving pieces to juggle that we can sometimes forget to appreciate our staff. It is certainly unintentional, but it is a sad reality of the work. Directors know that their programs could not operate without the amazing staff. They know that they are an integral part of a successful program, and that more often than not, staff are working long hours, giving up family time to plan and prep, and that their compensation is not commensurate with the invaluable work that they do each and every day. Even given all of that, they keep walking through that door every morning and giving all they have to children and families.

Let’s remind ourselves of some things directors can and should be doing to help keep staff recharged and feeling supported…

• Lead by example. Being a positive role model is so important. Staff want and need to know what is expected.
• Be transparent. Clear and open communication is key. Staff need to know where they stand and not be surprised by changes.
• Be honest. Sometimes staff may not agree or understand decisions, but honesty always wins.
• Recognize that not everyone needs the same things or level of support to be successful. Just like we individualize for children, we should for staff as well.
• Say “thank you” and do so often!
• Honor all feelings and show empathy. Who doesn’t benefit from being heard and having their feelings acknowledged? This also builds a trusting relationship.
• Assist staff with day-to-day tasks. Staff want to see that you can and will pitch in and help out when needed.
• Always ask for feedback and include staff in decision making. Staff need to know that they have a voice, that it is being heard, and that what they say matters.
• Admit when you have made a mistake and take ownership. No one is perfect and that is okay!
• Celebrate and acknowledge your staff. The little things matter, like celebrating birthdays, anniversaries and accomplishments. Point out a job well done and show appreciation for their hard work.
• Listen to the small stuff, so when bigger challenges arise, they will be more likely to talk to you.

All of the above are important for YOU as well! By doing these things for your staff, you may surely witness how staff then do these things for each other, and for you too! That has to be one of the best feelings ever – to have created a team that supports each other.

Tammy has been in the early childhood field for over 30 years, serving first as a preschool teacher and then as a preschool education director. She serves as an independent contractor for the Devereux Center for Resilient Children. When she’s not traveling and training for our team, she spends most of her time with her canine comfort service organization, Josie’s Journey.