September 25, 2025
Discover the "ACE program" as a framework for childcare center administration to grow and mentor staff into trustworthy and effective leaders.
Getting outstanding results from your childcare center staff isn’t as complex as it may seem. It starts with implementing a clear, consistent, and compassionate leadership framework. As leaders in early childhood education (ECE), our primary goal is to nurture both the children in our care and the incredible individuals who dedicate their lives to this vital work. So, how do we grow and mentor our staff into trustworthy and effective leaders? It all comes down to what I call the ACE program: Accountability, Compassion, and Expectations.
Accountability: The Foundation of Growth
Guiding someone towards accountability can feel like a delicate balance, yet it's a deeply important step in their professional journey. It's about clear, open communication rather than avoidance. This involves engaging in thoughtful conversations and, when appropriate, providing clear guidance on next steps— often in a documented way. For leaders who may find this aspect challenging, consider that embracing accountability is a true act of support. It reflects your belief in their potential and your genuine commitment to their success and development.
Compassion: The Heart of Effective Leadership
Directness doesn't mean a lack of empathy. In fact, compassion is the counterbalance to accountability. When your employees know you genuinely care about their best interests and are invested in their development, they will be far more receptive to accountability and expectations. They will trust you, and that trust will inspire them to go above and beyond. Think of it as nurturing their inherent desire to contribute and excel.
Expectations: The Clear Path to Success
Clear and concise expectations are non-negotiable. Your employees should have a written understanding of what is expected of them. This eliminates ambiguity and provides a roadmap for success. I usually share my "GREAT EXPECTATIONS" with my staff members – a detailed list I provide to all my direct reports. Remember, people perform better when they know exactly what is expected of them. This structure provides a sense of security and clarity, which is essential for developing autonomy and loyalty.
The Ripple Effect: When Leaders Fail to Act
One critical point to remember: your "ACES" (your most dedicated and high-performing employees, or even your "ACES in training") will leave if poor performance from others is not addressed in a timely manner. Humans inherently desire fairness and a productive environment. When accountability is lacking, it erodes trust and diminishes the overall quality of your team. This is why it’s critical for you to hold yourself accountable too — for ensuring these methods are followed with fidelity. Be the leader you expect them to be.
By consistently applying the ACE program, you'll not only see improved results but also cultivate a team of trustworthy, loyal, and effective leaders within your childcare center. You'll empower them, allowing them the autonomy to thrive, and ultimately, unleash the "Pygmalion effect" – where higher expectations lead to increased performance. Your investment in their growth will pay dividends for your staff, your center, and most importantly, the children and families you serve.
Meet our Expert Content Contributor: Rose Morelock
A visionary who has played a critical role in the profound growth of the U.S. educational childcare sector, Rose’s accomplishments are many. With 45+ years of experience, she has served as Regional District Manager, VP of Ops, VP of Talent Acquisition, Board Member, Consultant, and everything in between. Rose is an expert in childcare, franchising, building strong connections, leadership, and CMS software.
Want to support your staff's leadership journey with Kindertales? Schedule a demo with our childcare management software experts today!