ChildCare Conversations with Kate and Carrie

In this podcast episode, Blake, an expert in childcare insurance joins Kate and Carrie to discuss the challenges childcare directors and owners face in obtaining suitable insurance coverage. He shares his journey from being a childcare director to an owner and the difficulties he encountered in finding the right insurance guidance. Blake emphasizes the need for specialized knowledge in childcare insurance due to the industry's...

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...

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 starti...

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 w...

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 ...

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 ...

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 fos...

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 indus...

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 a...

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 b...

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 o...

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 in...

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 in...

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 speci...

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 th...

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 insu...