Administrative Skills for ECE Centres

Major Concepts

• A high quality early childhood education (ECE) program starts with a sound philosophy which reflects both current ECE practice and the values and beliefs of its constituents. This philosophy drives the operations of the educational or care service.
• To possess the overview required to administer an ECE centre, one must understand the history of childcare in Canada and North America, and keep abreast of current issues and trends in the field.
• Guiding the operation of programs for young children requires familiarity with the legal regulations which govern childcare.
• Central to effective organization and leadership of an ECE centre is the development and on-going revision of a clearly articulated and complete set of centre policies and procedures which are consistent with program philosophy. This ensures that administrative decisions are based upon thoughtful and carefully considered guidelines.
• Meeting the educational and care needs of children and their families is the primary purpose of quality ECE programs. This begins with the design and implementation of child observation and documentation systems which can be used when interpreting child growth and behaviours to parents and allied professionals. The day-to-day activities of the childcare program are dependent upon a well-planned record keeping system where current, relevant information about the children and their families, staffing and payroll, and the governance of the centre are kept.
• Effective administration requires the understanding and application of the principles of sound financial management.
• The first priority of a competent administrator is concern for all of the people who participate in the childcare environment.
• To ensure that staff maintain their ideals and retain their enthusiasm, the supervisor provides many, varied opportunities for feedback, self evaluation, professional development and education.
• Capable leadership in the centre involves compatible and cooperative working relationships with both centre management and union personnel.
• Capable leadership involves guiding the centre through future planning in response to family and community needs. The ECE administrator networks with resource people and organizations in the community and speaks on behalf of the centre in a competent and professional manner.