To manage a nursery can be very difficult as each day may be different especially with the unpredictability changes that arise within the industry. Peoples perception of running a nursery can also be different some say they sit in an office completing paperwork, however this is not always the case effective managers are the ones that are juggling a hundred and one jobs at once.
So how do managers manage a nursery?
Managing a nursery isnt the same as managing any other businesses and it’s children’s safety and welfare that is at the forefront of everything. To be an effective manager numerous skills and abilities are needed , one day you may be coach, a nursery nurse, a councillor or even the chef. This is why successful managers are people who can adapt their working day and use other skills to achieve an end goal.
Managers will deal and approach situations slightly different, however to achieve a successful outcome dedication, organisation flexibility and passion for childcare are key to managing a nursery.
A few helpful tips in managing a nursery
- Create a to do list- this will allow you to manage day to day tasks
- Delegate jobs
- Know that you may be needed to switch to doing another job- Be flexible
Here are some skills needed for any successful nursery manager?
- Passion for childcare
- Good strong role model
- Commitment to working in the nursery environment
- Trainer/coach
- Effective communicator with practitioners and parents
- Establish and run an effective marketing strategy
- Manage a budget
- Manage occupancy of the nursery
- Adhere to legislation
These are just some of the skills need, being able to switch from one job to another is a necessary skill. As this is constantly happening it is important to still be able to lead a team as well as write policies and procedures and create a safe environment where parents, children and practitioners are happy to be.