Empowering You to Empower Others.
We are on a continuous journey to nurture the generations of tomorrow by giving childcare providers the tools, resources and guidance to make a difference for children, parents and the world.
The Checklist That Changed Everything: A Preschool Director’s Journey
Kim, a preschool director who has earned her stripes, was doing everything right. Her staff was motivated, parents were happy, and the kids were thriving. It all seemed perfect until an unannounced visit from the Department of Social Services revealed a few missing documents in staff and child files.
She knew how important record-keeping was, but with a million things to juggle and kids to wrangle, it was easy for paperwork to slip through the cracks. Determined to get ahead, Kim turned to our end-of-month reporting checklist.
By customizing it for her center, Kim set up a system with regular reminders to stay on top of documentation. When the Department of Social Services returned, she was ready. The visit went off without a hitch, and Kim was back on track.
Thanks to a simple checklist, Kim went from worrying about missing paperwork to managing her center with confidence. We’re proud to be part of her success.
Kim, a preschool director who has earned her stripes, was doing everything right. Her staff was motivated, parents were happy, and the kids were thriving. It all seemed perfect until an unannounced visit from the Department of Social Services revealed a few missing documents in staff and child files.
She knew how important record-keeping was, but with a million things to juggle and kids to wrangle, it was easy for paperwork to slip through the cracks. Determined to get ahead, Kim turned to our end-of-month reporting checklist.
By customizing it for her center, Kim set up a system with regular reminders to stay on top of documentation. When the Department of Social Services returned, she was ready. The visit went off without a hitch, and Kim was back on track.
Thanks to a simple checklist, Kim went from worrying about missing paperwork to managing her center with confidence. We’re proud to be part of her success.
Lead with Confidence,
Lead with Integrity
No jargon, no confusion—just clear, honest advice to help you navigate your day-to-day with ease. Because integrity matters.
Empowerment
Giving childcare professionals the right tools and resources to run their centers smoothly so they can focus on doing what they love most.
Excellence
Helping childcare providers achieve high standards in their work, supporting quality care and professional growth to nurture the next generation.
Transparency
Inspiring a trustworthy environment through honest communication and ethical practices for childcare professionals to feel informed and supported.
Balance
Championing a healthy work-life balance with practical solutions that help childcare leaders run things smoothly while taking care of their health.
Community
Fostering a supportive community where childcare professionals can connect, share ideas and grow to be the best version of themselves.
Take Childcare Further
Join a community of childcare professionals transforming their centers with practical tools and uplifting resources. We’re right there with you.
Meet Our Founder
With over 28 years in childcare, Michael Mehl has dedicated his career to building environments where children, families, and staff can thrive. Starting as a camp counselor in 1996, he’s worn many hats, from teacher and director to vice president and owner of multiple programs. Michael’s journey includes expanding preschools and school-age programs and partnering with local districts to create innovative learning opportunities.
His passion lies in equipping childcare leaders with the tools, systems, and strategies they need to lead with confidence, balance, and heart. At Director Zen, he brings this experience to life, empowering professionals to transform their centers and nurture the next generation.
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Our Resources
Explore a world of resources designed to enrich the lives of childcare professionals and the children they care for.
8 Things Parents Look for in a Childcare
for Members
High Performing Childcare Employees: Practice, Study, Repeat
for Members