Leading Through Connection: Building Strong Teams in Childcare

The Importance of Connection in Leadership

2020 tested us all in ways we never could have imagined, and childcare was no exception. Every day brought new challenges—navigating cohort regulations, managing staff shortages, and keeping up with rigorous cleaning protocols. As a director, I often felt like I was just holding things together by a thread.

During this chaotic time, I leaned heavily on my team, especially those who had been with me the longest. One staff member, in particular, stood out. She had recently earned her EMT certification and was preparing to leave the program. But when my assistant director asked about her plans, she simply said, “I can’t leave now—Sam needs me.”

Those words meant everything. In the middle of so much uncertainty, her loyalty and commitment helped carry me through the hardest period of my career. That staff member stayed, and today, she’s my assistant director. Her decision wasn’t just an act of loyalty—it reflected the connection and trust we had built over time. It was a powerful reminder: strong teams are rooted in relationships.

Why Relationships Matter

In my early days as a director, I often felt consumed by policies, procedures, and never-ending to-do lists. But over time, I came to understand something fundamental: I couldn’t build a strong program without a strong team. My role wasn’t just to manage the logistics—it was to lead and support the people who bring the program to life.

The truth is, when a team feels valued and supported, everything else becomes easier. Parents trust us to keep their children safe, happy, and engaged. The staff who spend the most time with the kids shape those experiences. My job as a director is to empower my team so they can give their best every day.

When staff feel seen and appreciated, they invest more deeply in their work. That connection fosters a sense of pride and purpose, which directly impacts the quality of the program.

How to Keep Great Staff

Few things are more disheartening than when a great employee hands in their two weeks’ notice. It’s not just a staffing gap—it disrupts routines, affects team morale, and is felt by the children and families we serve.

So, how do we keep our best employees? How do we build an environment where they feel committed to staying and growing with us?

It starts with genuine care and connection.

Retention isn’t just about turnover rates or staffing numbers—it’s about preserving the heart of the program: its people. Experienced, passionate staff are irreplaceable—not just for their skills but for the relationships they build with children, families, and each other. When staff feel appreciated and supported, they develop loyalty and pride in their work.

Leadership Is Personal

One of the most important lessons I’ve learned as a director is that leadership is personal. It’s about building real, meaningful relationships with each team member. Issuing directives or checking boxes during evaluations isn’t enough—you have to take the time to truly know your people.

Small, thoughtful gestures—like asking about their weekend or remembering details about their families—show genuine care. I make an intentional effort to connect with my team by learning about their lives outside of work. Whether it’s birthdays, anniversaries, or personal milestones, acknowledging these moments goes a long way in building trust and showing staff they are valued as individuals, not just employees.

This kind of trust fosters an environment where people feel safe sharing challenges and ideas. It paves the way for open communication, honest feedback, and collaboration that ultimately strengthens the program.

The Power of Appreciation

Recognition matters. A simple thank-you, a moment of public acknowledgment, or a note highlighting someone’s efforts can have a lasting impact. Being present in the day-to-day—observing, listening, and noticing the details—allows you to celebrate small wins that might otherwise go unnoticed.

It can be as simple as saying, “I saw how patient you were with that child,” or, “You handled that parent conversation so well.” These moments of appreciation boost confidence and inspire staff to keep bringing their best.

Creating a Positive Workplace

A positive workplace doesn’t happen by accident—it’s built with intention. Leaders set the tone. By addressing conflicts promptly and fairly, setting clear expectations, and fostering a spirit of collaboration, we create an environment where staff feel valued and respected.

Checking in regularly, truly listening to concerns, and following through on solutions show that you have your team’s back. When staff know their leader cares and supports them, they are more likely to show up fully—not just for the work but for each other.

Final Thoughts

The story of my staff member choosing to stay during such a challenging time has stayed with me for a reason. When she said, “Sam needs me,” it wasn’t about a job title or daily tasks—it was about trust, connection, and the relationships we had built.

It’s easy to get pulled in every direction—managing schedules, policies, and endless responsibilities. But at the center of it all are the people who make the program thrive. When we take the time to show up, listen, and appreciate our team, we create a culture where people feel valued, supported, and inspired.

We don’t just want staff to work for us; we want them to want to work with us. When staff feel that sense of purpose and connection, they don’t just show up for a job—they invest in the program, the families, and one another.

It’s the small, consistent moments—the thoughtful words, the recognition, the genuine support—that build trust and loyalty over time. And in the hardest moments, it’s those relationships that carry us forward and strengthen our programs for years to come.

Call to Action

Want to build a strong, connected team that thrives? Join our Zen Empowerment membership for expert training, leadership tools, and resources to help you foster a workplace where staff feel valued and inspired. Sign up today and start strengthening your team from the inside out!

Disclaimer: This blog is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal, financial, or regulatory advice. Childcare regulations vary by state, so please check with your local licensing agency to ensure compliance. Results are not guaranteed. Read our full disclaimer [here].