In my 10 years of being a center owner, I have noticed that the child care industry has a very high staff turnover rate. In fact, sometimes I get very irritated at the lack of commitment from many of the staff members, however, I know that I must grow as a leader in order to effectively deal with the challenges that come along with operating a center.
Moreover, I do not look forward to seeing the look on a parent’s face when their child’s teacher leaves the center, however, you must remain professional and reassure the parent that you are seeking to hire the best teacher for the job.
I have seen many staff members come and go; some employees have stayed for 3-weeks or less, my longest employed staff member was with me for over 7 years and several employees were on my team for two or more years.
As I think back on what inspired my employees to stay with me; I was inspired to share with you, what I believe contributes to a High Turnover and what causes employees to stay with you.
Why I believe that there is a High Turnover in Child Care Center
There are many factors to consider in terms of the staff turnover rate in child care centers and I believe that the top six are as follows:
- The Owner or hiring manager must be able to select the right person for the center. *Every one is not a perfect match for your center
- When enrollment is low, Owners are forced to cut hours and this could lead to staff members search for new jobs.
- There is a need for more trained early childhood professionals
- The Staff members may not respect management
- Centers can use more financial assistance to help pay for higher salaries for Early Childhood Professionals
- We as Owners must develop vital leadership skills, so that we are empowered to handle staff issues that may lead to a high turnover
7 Ways to Make Your Center a Great Place to Work
- Pay your employees more than what they have made at a previous Job.
- Offer paid Holidays and Vacation Time
- Conduct an Orientation that introduces your new staff members to your center and the other staff members. ** be sure that it is full of excitement
- Hold Monthly Staff Potlucks
- Plan a fun event for all the staff to come together once a year. (shopping trip, visit a spa, etc)
- Be a Positive boss and your employees will be positive
- Offer opportunities or financial assistance for the staff to enhance their education
- Provide a cool and relaxing place for breaks
- Buy lunch 3-4 times a year, your staff members will love it!
For more tips on how to effectively manage staff or tips on how to build a Successful Child Care Center, Check out my ebook: The Art of Owning a Child Care Center.
With Your Child Care Business in Mind,
Shiketa
The Child Care Business Owner Institute 
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