Describes the development of a five-part plan for dealing with emergencies and crises in day care centers. The plan involves a handout that provides general information about the program, the designation of spokespeople, procedures for responding to both common and extreme emergencies, and media guidelines. (SH)

Examines the child care for-profit business in terms of recent history, current status, and future prospects. (BB)

Notes the difficulty of developing and managing a child care business well. Describes Sharlit and McConnell's (1989) five-phase model of business growth as it might apply to a growing child care program. The phases of development described are creativity; direction; delegation; coordination; and collaboration. (TJQ)

Workshop examines school-age summer programs. Papers are (1) "No More Homework" (Linda Sisson), presenting National School-Age Child Care Alliance standards relevant to planning and evaluating summer programs; (2) "Staffing for Summer Programs" (Richard T. Scofield); (3) "Opportunities and Challenges" (Karen…

Many projects grow out of passion and minimal outside funding. One's own personal enthusiasm, together with non-monetary encouragement of others, can fuel a project for a while. On-going development of a project and sustainability however, often depends upon partnering with people and funding resources. In this article, the author shares ideas on…

Presents recommendations for developing a strategic plan for child care centers. The steps include requesting input from key individuals, compiling a comprehensive list of suggestions, understanding possible obstacles, developing goals, determining objectives, outlining action steps, prioritizing and developing timelines for activities, assigning…

Examines the power of positive publicity as cost-effective child-care marketing. Suggests that getting positive press can make marketing easier, less expensive, and fun. Notes that by creating news stories and developing a working relationship with targeted media, child-care-center directors can inform, educate, and create new prospects and…

Focuses on the role of the board of directors within nonprofit child care centers and how the board and center staff can work well together for the agency. Outlines each partner's role in the four areas of center responsibility: financial oversight, program planning, resource development, and personnel management. (EV)

Reports on developments regarding the expansion, quality enhancement, and identification of effective child care models around the world. Notes that several countries that have made substantial progress in developing innovative child care strategies are in the process of refining and broadening their programs. Highlights the program improvements…

Details strategies to assist center directors with community marketing, including the creation of a community marketing action plan. Focuses on the following seven activities: (1) make friendly visit calls; (2) conduct mutual-benefit activities; (3) exchange services; (4) co-sponsor events; (5) speak for an organization; (6) write and submit…

Discusses advantages of and criteria for development of effective caregiving teams in child care programs. (BB)

Maintains that the winter months are an ideal time to review and refine a child care center's marketing program. Highlights the following target areas for review: (1) marketing plan; (2) action plan; (3) center or company identity package; (4) center brochure; (5) photos; (6) web site; (7) advertisements; (8) publicity; (9) voice mail message;…

Advocates the creation of an "at-home" environment in after-school programs to encourage children to wind down after active days and to make child care a place of security, love, and fun. Suggests that a quiet environment, snacks, homework, puzzles and games, outdoor or gymnasium play comprise an effective after-school program. (KDFB)

Encourages child care professionals to encourage creativity in all aspects of their programs including: (1) passion in pursuit of ideas and in hiring staff; (2) nurturing relationships; (3) good role modeling; (4) making the space and time for goal development; (5) focus on values; (6) time for play; and (7) maintaining a balanced life. (SD)

Describes the importance of creating an organizational structure where adult staff in child care settings can work together in teams. Argues that team building requires a climate of caring with respect for all views, support, trust, and a relaxed environment. Also proposes that a commitment to encouraging ideas, professionalism, and growth is…