The Child Care Directors Chair Podcast

Erica Saccoccio
  • 5.0 (45)
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  • UPDATED WEEKLY

🎙️ The Child Care Director’s Chair – Where Big Dreams and Bigger Leadership Collide!    Ready to level up your child care career? Whether you're a teacher assistant dreaming of that lead teacher badge, a lead ready to snag that director title, or a director with your sights set on owning your own center (or multiple ones 👀)—this is your seat at the table. And spoiler alert: leadership isn’t a title, it’s an action. Hosted by the one and only Erica Saccoccio—part coach, part cheerleader, and full-time leadership hype man—you’ll get daily doses of real talk, big laughs, and bold leadership truths. We’re talking practical strategies, mindset shifts, and serious elevation vibes... all served with love (and a little sass 😘). ✨ New episodes drop Monday–Friday at 1 AM EST—so you can sip your coffee, set your goals, and strut into your center like the boss you’re becoming. This show is a great addition to your leadership toolbox or the perfect resource for your team onboarding sessions—because the best programs grow their teams from within. 💪  Pull up your chair, future leader. Let’s do this thing. 💼💥

  1. 13H AGO

    531 From Chicago Classrooms to Active Alphabet: Patrick’s Journey to Moving & Grooving Through Literacy

    Send a text What happens when a Pre-K teacher decides worksheets just aren’t cutting it anymore? In this energizing episode of the Childcare Directors Chair Podcast, we sit down with Patrick, founder of Active Alphabet, to talk about how a classroom in Chicago sparked a movement-based literacy revolution. As a Pre-K teacher, Patrick saw firsthand what so many early childhood educators experience — young children being asked to sit still, trace letters, and complete worksheets that didn’t match their developmental needs. He knew there had to be a better way. So instead of asking children to sit down and memorize letters, he got them up and moving. Jumping for J. Marching for M. Twisting for T. Through music, rhythm, and intentional movement, Patrick began teaching the alphabet in a way that honored how young children actually learn — through their bodies. In this episode, we talk about: His journey from Chicago educator to founder of Active AlphabetWhy worksheets don’t align with how Pre-K children developThe brain science behind movement and memoryHow directors can bring active literacy into their centersWhat happens when classrooms shift from passive to powerful learningThis conversation is a reminder that early literacy doesn’t have to mean sitting still — and that innovation often starts with one teacher asking, “What if we did this differently?” If you’re looking for ways to energize your classrooms, support your teachers, and rethink how letters are introduced, this episode will leave you inspired to get your children moving and grooving their way to literacy success. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xEUnsAkUHx Support the show 🎟 Ready to take your leadership to the next level? Join us at the Early Education Empowerment Conference for powerful sessions, real-world strategies, and meaningful connection with leaders from across the country. See the link to grab your tickets and secure your spot today! Purchase Tickets! – Early Childhood Education Empowerment Conference

    17 min

  2. 1D AGO

    530 Capturing the Moments That Matter: Reimagining Observations with Famly

    Send a text What if classroom observations became a bridge instead of a burden? In this episode of the Child Care Director’s Chair, Erica welcomes Meg and Anders from Famly to discuss how thoughtful documentation strengthens relationships between educators and families. They explore how intuitive technology makes it easy to capture milestones, celebrate progress, and keep everyone connected to a child’s learning journey. Tune in to discover why effective observation systems aren’t just about compliance—they’re about trust, transparency, and transforming early education. Get a demo | Discover the Top-Rated Childcare Software Support the show 🎟 Ready to take your leadership to the next level? Join us at the Early Education Empowerment Conference for powerful sessions, real-world strategies, and meaningful connection with leaders from across the country. See the link to grab your tickets and secure your spot today! Purchase Tickets! – Early Childhood Education Empowerment Conference

    30 min

  3. 4D AGO

    529 Pivot or Get Left Behind: Strategic Planning That Keeps Childcare Strong

    Send a text The pandemic forced childcare leaders to react fast—but reacting isn’t the same as leading. In this episode of the Child Care Director’s Chair, Erica sits down with Joe Pinsonneault to talk about why strategic planning is no longer optional in childcare—it’s survival. They break down what it really means to pivot in today’s early education landscape, how to move past the pandemic mindset, and why data, accountability, and stakeholder buy-in matter more than ever. Joe shares practical insight on maintaining quality while growing sustainably, diversifying revenue streams, and building a plan that protects your program long-term instead of putting out fires short-term. This is a must-listen for childcare owners, directors, and leaders ready to stop guessing and start planning with intention. 🎟️ If you’re ready to turn strategy into action, join us at the Early Education Empowerment Conference. Get your tickets now before they sell out and put yourself in the room with leaders who are shaping what’s next for childcare. Purchase Tickets! – Early Childhood Education Empowerment Conference Support the show 🎟 Ready to take your leadership to the next level? Join us at the Early Education Empowerment Conference for powerful sessions, real-world strategies, and meaningful connection with leaders from across the country. See the link to grab your tickets and secure your spot today! Purchase Tickets! – Early Childhood Education Empowerment Conference

    18 min

  4. 5D AGO

    528 No Time, No Breaks, No Energy? Time Management for Classroom Teachers

    Send a text If your prep time disappears, your lunch is rushed (or skipped), and you’re taking work home again, this episode is for you. Erica is joined by Adva Hanan to talk directly to classroom teachers about the real-time management struggles no one prepares you for. This honest conversation breaks down practical strategies teachers can actually use—setting boundaries in the classroom, creating focused planning time, managing the never-ending demands of the day, and finding space for self-care without the guilt. It’s not about doing more—it’s about doing what matters and protecting your energy so you can show up for your students. They also share how teachers can continue this learning at the Early Education Empowerment Conference, a space designed to support educators with tools, connection, and strategies that make teaching more sustainable. 🎟️ Get your tickets to the Early Education Empowerment Conference today before they sell out and invest in yourself—because great classrooms start with supported teachers. Purchase Tickets! – Early Childhood Education Empowerment Conference Support the show 🎟 Ready to take your leadership to the next level? Join us at the Early Education Empowerment Conference for powerful sessions, real-world strategies, and meaningful connection with leaders from across the country. See the link to grab your tickets and secure your spot today! Purchase Tickets! – Early Childhood Education Empowerment Conference

    15 min

  5. 6D AGO

    527 When Behavior Speaks: What Children Need Us to Hear

    Send a text Challenging behavior isn’t about defiance, discipline, or “bad kids”—it’s communication. In this episode of the Child Care Director’s Chair, Erica sits down with Yolanda Richey to unpack what educators often get wrong about behavior and why managing behavior isn’t the same as truly guiding it. Together, they explore how strong relationships, intentional language, and emotionally aware adults can completely shift classroom dynamics. This conversation dives into the role of language development, the classroom environment, adult emotions, and the common mistakes educators make when responding to challenging behaviors. It’s an honest, grounded reminder that real behavior support starts with care, connection, and growth—for adults too. If this episode makes you rethink behavior, leadership, and how we show up for children, the conversation doesn’t stop here. Join us at the Early Education Empowerment Conference, where educators and leaders come together to learn, reflect, and level up—together.  🔥 Get your tickets today before they sell out and be part of the movement shaping the future of early education. Purchase Tickets! – Early Childhood Education Empowerment Conference Support the show 🎟 Ready to take your leadership to the next level? Join us at the Early Education Empowerment Conference for powerful sessions, real-world strategies, and meaningful connection with leaders from across the country. See the link to grab your tickets and secure your spot today! Purchase Tickets! – Early Childhood Education Empowerment Conference

    24 min

  6. FEB 10

    526 Not a Box to Check: Designing an Eclectic Curriculum That Actually Works

    Send a text What happens when we stop picking sides in early childhood education and start designing with intention? In this episode of the Child Care Director’s Chair, Erica sits down with Susan Zoll to spill the real tea on eclectic curriculum design—pulling powerful elements from Montessori, Reggio Emilia, and beyond to meet children exactly where they are. Susan brings her deep experience and research-based insights to the table, unpacking how developmentally appropriate practice, thoughtfully designed environments, and evidence-based decision making should guide curriculum—not trends or labels. If you’ve ever wondered how to blend philosophies without watering them down, this conversation is your permission slip to do it on purpose. ABOUT — Dr. Susan Zoll 🎟️ Call to Action If this conversation fires you up and you’re ready to go deeper, you do not want to miss the Early Education Empowerment Conference. This is where big ideas turn into real strategy—with educators, leaders, and change-makers who are ready to raise the bar together. 👉 Grab your tickets now and join us in the room where it actually happens. Early Childhood Education Empowerment Conference – Learn – Reflect – Collaborate Support the show 🎟 Ready to take your leadership to the next level? Join us at the Early Education Empowerment Conference for powerful sessions, real-world strategies, and meaningful connection with leaders from across the country. See the link to grab your tickets and secure your spot today! Purchase Tickets! – Early Childhood Education Empowerment Conference

    29 min

  7. FEB 10

    524 Stop Training, Start Transforming: How to Make Skills Stick in Your Program

    Send a text You’ve trained your staff—but are the skills actually sticking? On this episode of Childcare Director’s Chair, we’re talking about how to turn training into transformation. I’ll share real-life strategies to keep skills alive in daily routines, use peer coaching and mini-huddles effectively, recognize wins to build staff confidence, and create a culture that reinforces learning every day. If you want your team to not just know it, but own it, this episode is packed with practical tips you can start using immediately. 💖 Valentine’s Day Ticket Special 🎟 Sale ends MIDNIGHT on Valentine’s Day 📍 Early Education Empowerment Conference – May 7, 8 & 9 VIP Leadership Ticket: $299 – full 3-day access. Teacher Team: Add 4 Saturday-only tickets using code GENERALADMIN. Early Childhood Education Empowerment Conference – Learn – Reflect – Collaborate Important: Enter each staff member’s name individually—don’t enter your own name four times. Support the show 🎟 Ready to take your leadership to the next level? Join us at the Early Education Empowerment Conference for powerful sessions, real-world strategies, and meaningful connection with leaders from across the country. See the link to grab your tickets and secure your spot today! Purchase Tickets! – Early Childhood Education Empowerment Conference

    11 min

  8. FEB 9

    525 When Every Second Counts: Emergency Safety in Childcare

    Send us a text  Emergencies in childcare can happen in a heartbeat—but how prepared are you really? In this episode of The Child Care Director’s Chair, Erica Saccoccio chats with Stephen Westbrook from Vine Alert about turning panic into preparedness. They break down the gaps in emergency communication, share how Vine Alert empowers staff, and reveal practical tips to keep children calm and parents confident when it matters most. Every childcare leader needs this conversation—because safety isn’t just a protocol, it’s trust in action.   Make sure your center is truly prepared. Click the link below to set up a call with Stephen and his team at Vine Alert and take your childcare safety to the next level! Visual Alert Systems for Schools, Churches & Businesses | V!NE Alert Support the show 🎟 Ready to take your leadership to the next level? Join us at the Early Education Empowerment Conference for powerful sessions, real-world strategies, and meaningful connection with leaders from across the country. See the link to grab your tickets and secure your spot today! Purchase Tickets! – Early Childhood Education Empowerment Conference

    20 min
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5
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45 Ratings

About

🎙️ The Child Care Director’s Chair – Where Big Dreams and Bigger Leadership Collide!    Ready to level up your child care career? Whether you're a teacher assistant dreaming of that lead teacher badge, a lead ready to snag that director title, or a director with your sights set on owning your own center (or multiple ones 👀)—this is your seat at the table. And spoiler alert: leadership isn’t a title, it’s an action. Hosted by the one and only Erica Saccoccio—part coach, part cheerleader, and full-time leadership hype man—you’ll get daily doses of real talk, big laughs, and bold leadership truths. We’re talking practical strategies, mindset shifts, and serious elevation vibes... all served with love (and a little sass 😘). ✨ New episodes drop Monday–Friday at 1 AM EST—so you can sip your coffee, set your goals, and strut into your center like the boss you’re becoming. This show is a great addition to your leadership toolbox or the perfect resource for your team onboarding sessions—because the best programs grow their teams from within. 💪  Pull up your chair, future leader. Let’s do this thing. 💼💥

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