Daycare Manager Career Guide: How to Launch Your Path in Early Childhood Education
Daycare Managers play a pivotal role in shaping the early educational environment for children, overseeing the daily operations of daycare centers to ensure a safe, nurturing, and stimulating atmosphere. They are tasked with balancing administrative duties, such as managing budgets and adhering to regulations, with the human aspect of leading a team of educators and caring for young children. Their role is multifaceted, requiring a unique blend of leadership, early childhood education knowledge, and operational management to foster a successful daycare setting.
The daycare manager career path offers a deeply rewarding opportunity for those passionate about child development and educational leadership. As the demand for quality childcare continues to grow, skilled daycare managers are increasingly valued for their ability to create environments where children thrive while supporting working families in their communities.
What Does a Daycare Manager Do?
Daycare Managers serve as the cornerstone of early childhood education facilities, wearing multiple hats to ensure comprehensive care and educational programming for young children. Their responsibilities span from direct child interaction to strategic facility management, making them essential leaders in the early learning landscape.
Core Responsibilities
The day-to-day responsibilities of a Daycare Manager encompass both the nurturing aspects of childcare and the business acumen required to run a successful facility. Key duties include developing and implementing educational programs that adhere to early learning standards and cater to the developmental needs of children. They manage the daycare center’s budget, allocating funds for supplies, activities, and staff salaries while ensuring compliance with state and local regulations regarding child care, safety, and staff qualifications.
Daycare Managers are also responsible for hiring, training, and supervising daycare staff, including teachers and support personnel. They create a safe, welcoming, and inclusive environment for children and their families while conducting regular staff meetings and professional development sessions to maintain high-quality care and education. Communication with parents and guardians about their children’s progress, center policies, and concerns is a critical component of their role.
Operational Excellence
Beyond direct care responsibilities, Daycare Managers maintain meticulous records of children’s attendance, health, progress, and any incidents that occur. They oversee the maintenance and organization of the physical space to ensure a clean and hazard-free environment while implementing and monitoring health and safety policies to protect children and staff.
The role also involves assessing and improving the daycare curriculum, teaching methods, and overall educational approach. Successful managers network with other childcare professionals and organizations to stay current on trends and best practices in early childhood education, ensuring their facility remains competitive and effective.
Career Stage Variations
The specific focus of a Daycare Manager’s responsibilities varies significantly based on experience level. Entry-level managers typically concentrate on operational tasks and learning the intricacies of the daycare environment, including supervising children, assisting with daily schedules, and handling basic administrative duties. Mid-level managers take on additional responsibilities including staff management, program development, and ensuring regulatory compliance, while also building community relationships and engaging in marketing efforts. Senior-level managers focus on strategic direction, setting long-term goals, leading policy creation, and mentoring staff while overseeing the financial health of the facility.
How to Become a Daycare Manager
Becoming a Daycare Manager requires a strategic combination of education, experience, and skill development. The path involves understanding both the nurturing aspects of child development and the business fundamentals necessary to operate a successful childcare facility.
Educational Foundation
The journey typically begins with earning a degree in early childhood education, child development, or a related field. This educational foundation provides essential knowledge of child psychology, learning methodologies, and educational best practices. Many positions require at least an associate’s degree, though a bachelor’s or master’s degree can be advantageous for higher-level management roles. Consider obtaining certifications such as the Child Development Associate (CDA) credential to further demonstrate expertise and commitment to the field.
While a degree provides valuable theoretical knowledge, alternative pathways exist for those who may face barriers to conventional education. These include specialized certifications, online courses, and community college programs that offer flexible options for gaining necessary knowledge and credentials.
Gaining Practical Experience
Hands-on experience is crucial for understanding daycare operations. Start by working in various positions within early childhood education, such as teacher’s aide, lead teacher, or curriculum coordinator. This experience provides insight into classroom management, childcare routines, and the nuances of working with children and their families. It also prepares future managers for the multifaceted responsibilities of running a daycare center.
Volunteering at local community centers, schools, or non-profit organizations that serve children can provide additional hands-on experience and demonstrate commitment to child welfare. These experiences not only enrich a resume but also provide practical knowledge of child development and family dynamics.
Developing Business Acumen
Effective daycare management requires strong business and administrative skills beyond childcare expertise. Take courses or workshops in business management, finance, human resources, and leadership. Understanding state licensing requirements, health and safety regulations, and policy development is essential for operational success. These skills prove invaluable when handling the financial, operational, and administrative aspects of managing a daycare center.
Building Leadership Capabilities
As a Daycare Manager, leading a team of educators and staff while interacting with parents and community stakeholders requires strong leadership and communication skills. Focus on developing decision-making abilities, team building expertise, and conflict resolution skills. These interpersonal competencies are critical for creating a positive work environment and ensuring smooth daycare operations.
Daycare Manager Skills
Success as a Daycare Manager requires a diverse skill set that balances educational expertise, operational management, and interpersonal abilities. These skills work together to create an environment where children can thrive while ensuring efficient facility operations.
Technical Skills
Child Development and Educational Programming Understanding child development theories and educational best practices forms the foundation of effective daycare management. This includes knowledge of age-appropriate curricula, developmental milestones, and learning strategies that accommodate different learning styles. Managers must stay current with early childhood education research and implement evidence-based practices.
Regulatory Compliance and Safety Management Comprehensive knowledge of local, state, and federal regulations governing childcare facilities is essential. This includes understanding licensing requirements, health and safety standards, and emergency preparedness protocols. Managers must ensure their facility maintains compliance while prioritizing child and staff safety.
Financial and Operational Management Running a successful daycare requires business acumen including budget management, financial planning, and resource allocation. Skills in scheduling, inventory management, and facility maintenance ensure smooth daily operations while maintaining financial sustainability.
Interpersonal Skills
| Skill Category | Key Competencies | Application in Daycare Management |
|---|---|---|
| Communication | Active listening, clear articulation, written communication | Parent interactions, staff direction, incident reporting |
| Leadership | Team motivation, delegation, decision-making | Staff management, crisis response, culture building |
| Emotional Intelligence | Empathy, patience, emotional regulation | Child behavior management, parent concerns, staff support |
| Conflict Resolution | Mediation, problem-solving, negotiation | Staff disputes, parent complaints, child conflicts |
Emerging Skills for 2024
The evolving childcare landscape requires managers to develop new competencies including technology integration and digital literacy. Understanding how to incorporate educational technology and management systems enhances both operational efficiency and learning experiences. Cultural competency and inclusive practices are increasingly important as daycare populations become more diverse, requiring managers to create welcoming environments for all families.
Crisis management and adaptability have become critical skills, particularly in light of recent global events that have impacted childcare operations. Managers must be prepared to implement contingency plans and adapt quickly to changing circumstances while maintaining quality care standards.
Daycare Manager Tools & Software
Modern daycare management relies heavily on specialized software and tools that streamline operations, enhance communication, and improve the overall quality of care. These technological solutions help managers focus more on child development and less on administrative burdens.
Management and Administrative Platforms
Comprehensive Management Systems
- Brightwheel: Offers digital check-in, record-keeping, and communication features to streamline daily operations and parent engagement
- Procare Software: Provides comprehensive management solutions including attendance tracking, tuition billing, and detailed reporting
- TeachKloud: A cloud-based system offering curriculum planning, compliance documentation, and parent-teacher communication portals
Documentation and Assessment Tools
- HiMama: Facilitates real-time updates to parents, digital documentation, and development assessments
- Kaymbu: Captures classroom moments and creates rich documentation for developmental assessments and parent engagement
- Storypark: Enables educators to document, share, and collaborate with families on children’s learning journeys
Operational Efficiency Tools
Staff Management
- When I Work: Simplifies staff scheduling, handles shift swaps, and tracks time and attendance
- Deputy: Offers scheduling, timesheet tracking, and communication features for managing staff across different programs
- TimeClock Plus: Provides time tracking solutions with scheduling and labor law compliance features
Financial Management
- QuickBooks: Widely-used accounting software for managing invoices, tracking expenses, and preparing financial reports
- Xero: Provides real-time financial data with features for invoicing, expense management, and payroll
- Smartcare: Specialized childcare management software including financial reporting and automated billing
Communication and Safety Platforms
Parent Communication
- Bloomz: Secure messaging platform for photo sharing and event coordination with parents
- Remini: Allows sharing of photos, videos, and announcements to foster strong parent connections
- Tadpoles: Offers daily reports, health check-ins, and emergency information sharing
Health and Compliance
- ChildCare Seer: All-in-one platform for health checks, immunization tracking, and managing child allergies
- 1Place Childcare: Compliance management system for tracking health and safety checks and quality assurance
Mastering Daycare Management Technology
To effectively leverage these tools, managers should establish a clear understanding of their facility’s specific needs before selecting software. Embrace hands-on learning through free trials and demo versions, and participate in user communities to exchange knowledge and learn best practices. Utilize official training resources provided by software vendors and commit to ongoing learning as technology evolves. The goal is seamless integration of these tools into daily operations to improve service quality and family satisfaction.
Daycare Manager Job Titles & Career Progression
The daycare management field offers diverse career pathways with titles reflecting various responsibilities and levels of leadership. Understanding these progression opportunities helps professionals plan their career trajectory and identify roles that align with their skills and aspirations.
Entry-Level Positions
Daycare Assistant Manager Entry-level role supporting overall facility operations under supervision of the Daycare Manager. Responsibilities include implementing educational programs, assisting with staff management, and ensuring regulatory compliance.
Child Care Program Coordinator Focuses on planning and overseeing educational content and daily activities. Works closely with educators to create engaging, developmentally appropriate programs for children.
Early Childhood Education Administrator Manages administrative tasks including enrollment, staffing, and budgeting while ensuring smooth facility operations and parent interaction.
Mid-Level Management
Daycare Center Director Central management role overseeing entire facility operations, staff supervision, curriculum planning, and regulatory compliance. Responsible for creating supportive environments for both children and educators.
Assistant Daycare Director Supports the Center Director in daily operations, often handling specific areas such as staff training, enrollment, and parent communication.
Early Childhood Program Coordinator Develops and implements educational programs adhering to developmental standards while working with educators to ensure curriculum effectiveness.
Senior Leadership
| Position | Primary Focus | Key Responsibilities |
|---|---|---|
| Senior Daycare Manager | Strategic Operations | Long-term planning, staff development, policy implementation |
| Childcare Program Supervisor | Educational Excellence | Curriculum development, educator training, quality standards |
| Regional Daycare Manager | Multi-location Oversight | Standardizing practices, quality control, regional strategies |
Executive Positions
Director of Early Childhood Education Oversees curriculum and educational programs, ensuring alignment with developmental milestones and educational standards while fostering learning environments.
VP of Early Childhood Programs Senior executive role focusing on educational strategies, policy development, and organizational leadership across multiple facilities or regions.
Chief Executive of Child Care Operations Highest-level position responsible for overarching management and strategic planning of childcare services within large organizations or franchises.
The career progression in daycare management typically follows experience and education levels, with entry-level positions requiring 2-4 years of education plus 2-3 years of practical experience. Mid-level roles demand additional leadership skills and operational knowledge, while senior positions require strategic thinking and extensive industry expertise.
Daycare Manager Salary & Work-Life Balance
The daycare management profession offers competitive compensation aligned with the significant responsibilities of overseeing early childhood education facilities. However, like many leadership roles in education, achieving work-life balance requires intentional strategies and boundary-setting.
Compensation Overview
Daycare Manager salaries vary significantly based on factors including geographic location, facility size, years of experience, and educational credentials. Entry-level managers typically earn competitive starting salaries, while experienced managers overseeing larger facilities or multiple locations can command significantly higher compensation. Additional benefits often include health insurance, retirement plans, and professional development opportunities.
Factors influencing compensation include the local cost of living, state funding for early childhood education programs, and the facility’s business model (private, nonprofit, or corporate-owned). Managers with specialized certifications or advanced degrees often receive premium compensation reflecting their enhanced qualifications.
Work-Life Balance Challenges
The role of Daycare Manager presents unique work-life balance challenges that require proactive management. Extended operating hours to accommodate working parents often mean irregular schedules including early mornings, late evenings, and sometimes weekends. The emotional labor of supporting both children and families can extend beyond work hours, as managers often worry about child welfare and family dynamics.
Administrative overload represents another significant challenge, with regulatory compliance, staff scheduling, and financial management tasks often spilling into personal time. High staff turnover rates in the childcare industry can place additional pressure on managers who may need to fill staffing gaps or spend extra time recruiting and training new employees.
Strategies for Achieving Balance
Boundary Setting Establish clear distinctions between work and personal time by designating specific hours for administrative duties and direct childcare responsibilities. Ensure uninterrupted personal time to prevent burnout and maintain effectiveness in both professional and personal roles.
Technology Integration Leverage technology to automate routine tasks such as attendance tracking, billing, and parent communication. This reduces time spent on manual processes, allowing greater focus on high-priority activities and personal well-being.
Team Development and Delegation Build a strong team by empowering qualified staff to take on leadership roles within the daycare. Effective delegation not only fosters professional development among staff but also allows managers to focus on strategic priorities while maintaining work-life balance.
Self-Care Prioritization Invest in physical and mental health through regular self-care practices including exercise, meditation, or pursuing hobbies. Taking time for personal rejuvenation is essential for maintaining the energy and patience required for effective daycare management.
Work Environment Considerations
The work environment for Daycare Managers is typically lively and interactive, set within colorful and cheerful childcare facilities. The role demands high energy and constant vigilance as child safety remains the top priority. While demanding, the position offers unique satisfaction from making positive impacts on children’s early learning experiences and supporting their families.
Most managers work full-time with hours aligned to daycare operating schedules. The role involves a mix of active supervision and administrative tasks, requiring strong multitasking abilities and stress management skills. Despite the challenges, many find the work deeply fulfilling due to the meaningful impact on child development and family support.
Daycare Manager Professional Development Goals
Setting strategic professional development goals is essential for Daycare Managers seeking to advance their careers while improving the quality of care and education in their facilities. These goals should encompass various aspects of the role, from child development expertise to operational excellence.
Educational and Developmental Goals
Child Development Expertise Focus on deepening knowledge of early childhood education by staying current with the latest research in child development and learning strategies. Attend conferences, participate in webinars, and pursue advanced certifications in specialized areas such as special needs education or trauma-informed care. This ongoing education ensures programs remain evidence-based and effective.
Curriculum Innovation Develop goals around implementing innovative educational programs that engage children and support developmental milestones. This might include integrating STEM learning, incorporating technology appropriately, or developing inclusive curricula that serve diverse populations. Successful curriculum development demonstrates educational leadership and can lead to recognition within the field.
Operational Excellence Goals
Regulatory Compliance Mastery Stay ahead of evolving childcare regulations by setting goals to understand and exceed compliance requirements. This includes pursuing specialized training in health and safety protocols, understanding licensing changes, and implementing quality improvement initiatives that surpass minimum standards.
Financial Management Skills Develop business acumen through goals focused on budget optimization, resource allocation, and financial planning. Understanding the business side of daycare operations is crucial for long-term facility sustainability and career advancement to executive roles.
Leadership and Team Development Goals
| Goal Category | Specific Objectives | Expected Outcomes |
|---|---|---|
| Staff Development | Implement mentorship programs, provide training opportunities | Improved staff retention, enhanced care quality |
| Communication Excellence | Strengthen parent engagement, community partnerships | Increased family satisfaction, community support |
| Crisis Management | Develop emergency protocols, stress management skills | Enhanced facility resilience, staff confidence |
Community Engagement and Advocacy Goals
Partnership Building Establish connections with local organizations, schools, and community resources to enhance daycare offerings and support for families. These partnerships can provide additional resources for children and families while raising the facility’s community profile.
Professional Advocacy Engage in professional organizations and advocacy efforts to influence early childhood education policy and standards. This involvement demonstrates commitment to the field while building professional networks that can support career advancement.
Technology Integration Goals
Modern daycare management increasingly requires technological proficiency. Set goals around implementing management software, communication platforms, and educational technology that enhances both operational efficiency and learning experiences. Technology skills are becoming essential for competitive daycare operations and career advancement.
Measuring Progress and Adaptation
Establish clear metrics for goal achievement including parent satisfaction surveys, staff retention rates, and educational outcome assessments. Regularly evaluate progress and adapt goals based on changing industry standards, facility needs, and personal career aspirations. This iterative approach ensures continuous improvement and career growth.
Daycare Manager LinkedIn Profile Tips
A compelling LinkedIn profile is essential for Daycare Managers looking to showcase their expertise in early childhood education and facility management. Your profile should reflect both your educational philosophy and operational competencies while demonstrating your commitment to child development and family support.
Crafting an Effective Headline
Your LinkedIn headline should clearly communicate your role and specialization in early childhood education. Consider headlines like “Experienced Daycare Manager Specializing in Early Childhood Education and Inclusive Learning Environments” or “Dynamic Daycare Leader | Implementing STEM Programs | Educational Technology Integration | Family Engagement Expert.”
Effective headlines highlight years of experience, educational credentials, and unique value propositions such as creating nurturing environments or fostering holistic child development. Include industry-relevant keywords like “childcare,” “curriculum development,” “staff training,” and “parent engagement” to improve searchability.
Writing a Compelling Summary
Your summary should tell your professional story while showcasing your philosophy on child care and leadership style. Express your vision for child development and how you’ve implemented programs supporting this vision. Share specific examples of your impact, such as program innovations, staff development initiatives, or community partnerships.
Highlight your passion for working with children and supporting their growth, letting genuine enthusiasm shine through. This personal touch distinguishes you from others in the field and makes your summary more engaging. Include details about your educational background, specialized training, and any unique approaches you bring to daycare management.
Showcasing Experience and Achievements
Detail your experience beyond job titles by describing the scope of responsibilities including curriculum development, staff training, and facility management. Highlight specific initiatives you’ve led such as educational technology integration or community partnership establishment. Share measurable outcomes like improvements in child engagement, parent satisfaction rates, or staff retention to demonstrate leadership effectiveness.
Include any awards, recognitions, or special achievements that underscore your dedication to early childhood education and excellence in management. Professional certifications, advanced training, and continuing education demonstrate commitment to staying current with industry best practices.
Skills and Endorsements Strategy
Carefully select skills relevant to daycare management including child development knowledge, regulatory compliance, curriculum planning, and staff leadership. Include soft skills like empathy, communication, and conflict resolution. Seek endorsements from colleagues, parents, and industry professionals to add credibility to your listed competencies.
Building Your Professional Network
Engage with early childhood education content by sharing insights on child development, innovative teaching methods, or community engagement initiatives. Participate in discussions on industry topics and connect with other daycare professionals, educators, and early childhood advocates. Personalize connection requests with details about shared interests or challenges in daycare management.
Update your profile regularly, ideally every six months or when you implement new programs, complete professional development, or achieve significant milestones. This keeps your profile current and demonstrates ongoing commitment to professional growth in the dynamic field of early childhood education.
Daycare Manager Certifications
Professional certifications provide Daycare Managers with validated expertise and enhanced credibility in the competitive early childhood education field. These credentials demonstrate commitment to quality care and can significantly impact career advancement opportunities and professional standing.
Value of Professional Certification
Daycare Manager certifications serve as professional validation, showcasing specialized knowledge in child development, facility management, and educational programming. They provide comprehensive understanding of industry best practices, regulatory requirements, and innovative approaches to early childhood education. Certifications can lead to increased job security, career advancement opportunities, and enhanced trust from parents and employers.
Many certification programs cover essential topics including child development theories, behavior management, safety protocols, and business operations. This comprehensive education ensures managers are well-equipped to handle the multifaceted responsibilities of daycare leadership while staying current with evolving industry standards.
Popular Certification Options
The Child Development Associate (CDA) credential is nationally recognized and provides practical knowledge in early childhood education. Other valuable certifications include the Certified Childcare Professional (CCP) designation and specialized credentials in areas like Montessori education, special needs care, or infant/toddler development.
State-specific director credentials and administrative certifications ensure compliance with local regulations while demonstrating leadership competency. Many programs offer flexible learning options including online courses, weekend workshops, and intensive training sessions to accommodate working professionals.
Choosing the Right Certification
When selecting certifications, consider your career goals, current experience level, and the specific needs of your facility or target employers. Look for programs that align with your educational philosophy and offer practical, applicable knowledge. Ensure certifications meet state regulatory requirements and are recognized by reputable early childhood education organizations.
Consider factors such as program reputation, ongoing education requirements, and networking opportunities when making certification decisions. Many programs provide access to professional communities and continuing education resources that support long-term career development.
For comprehensive information about specific certification requirements, program comparisons, and application guidance, visit our detailed Daycare Manager Certifications guide.
Daycare Manager Interview Prep
Successfully interviewing for a Daycare Manager position requires preparation that demonstrates your expertise in child development, operational management, and leadership capabilities. Interview questions typically explore your educational philosophy, crisis management skills, and ability to create nurturing environments for both children and staff.
Common Interview Topics
Daycare Manager interviews often include behavioral questions that reveal your leadership style and problem-solving abilities. Expect to discuss specific situations where you’ve managed conflicts, implemented educational programs, or addressed parental concerns. These questions assess your interpersonal skills and ability to adapt to the dynamic daycare environment.
Operational and compliance questions test your knowledge of licensing requirements, health and safety protocols, and staff training procedures. Interviewers want to ensure you can maintain a compliant and efficient facility while prioritizing child welfare and educational quality.
Key Preparation Areas
Child Development and Educational Philosophy Be prepared to discuss your approach to curriculum development, understanding of developmental milestones, and strategies for supporting children with diverse needs. Share specific examples of educational programs you’ve implemented and their outcomes.
Leadership and Team Management Demonstrate your ability to hire, train, and motivate staff. Discuss your leadership style, experience with performance management, and strategies for building positive workplace culture. Provide examples of how you’ve handled team challenges or fostered professional development.
Crisis Management and Safety Explain your approach to emergency preparedness, incident response, and maintaining child safety. Share examples of how you’ve handled unexpected situations while maintaining calm and effective leadership.
Sample Response Framework
When answering behavioral questions, use specific examples that demonstrate your competencies. For instance, when discussing conflict resolution, describe the situation, your actions, and the positive outcomes achieved. This approach shows practical application of your skills and their effectiveness in real daycare settings.
Financial and Operational Management
Be ready to discuss budget management experience, resource allocation strategies, and facility maintenance oversight. Demonstrate understanding of the business aspects of daycare operations while maintaining focus on educational quality and child welfare.
For detailed interview questions, answer strategies, and additional preparation guidance, explore our comprehensive Daycare Manager Interview Questions resource.
Related Career Paths
The skills and experience gained as a Daycare Manager create pathways to various related careers in education, child services, and nonprofit management. These alternative paths allow professionals to leverage their expertise in child development and organizational leadership while exploring different aspects of working with children and families.
Educational Leadership Roles
Elementary School Administrator The transition from daycare management to elementary education administration builds on existing skills in educational programming and staff management. This path often requires additional education credentials but offers opportunities to impact older children’s educational experiences.
Curriculum Specialist Daycare Managers with strong program development experience can transition to curriculum specialist roles, focusing on educational content design and teacher training across multiple schools or districts.
Child and Family Services
Family Support Specialist This role involves providing resources and assistance to families, helping them navigate various services for their children. Daycare Managers’ experience with family engagement and community resource knowledge translates well to this supportive advocacy role.
Early Intervention Coordinator Professionals can specialize in supporting children with developmental delays or disabilities, coordinating services between families, schools, and healthcare providers.
Nonprofit and Community Leadership
Nonprofit Program Director Managing programs that serve children and families aligns closely with daycare management responsibilities. This role requires strong leadership, fundraising skills, and program evaluation abilities while maintaining focus on child welfare and family support.
Community Education Coordinator Developing and implementing community-based educational programs for children and families builds on daycare managers’ experience in program development and community engagement.
Consulting and Training
Early Childhood Education Consultant Experienced Daycare Managers can provide expertise to multiple facilities, helping improve educational outcomes and operational efficiency. This path offers flexibility while leveraging extensive field experience to guide other professionals.
Professional Development Trainer Teaching other early childhood professionals about best practices in management, curriculum development, or regulatory compliance allows experienced managers to share knowledge while maintaining connections to the field.
Entrepreneurial Opportunities
Many Daycare Managers eventually open their own childcare facilities or early childhood education businesses, applying their operational knowledge and educational expertise as entrepreneurs. Others develop educational products, consulting services, or training programs that serve the broader early childhood education community.
The diverse career paths available to Daycare Managers reflect the valuable and transferable skills gained through this foundational role in early childhood education. Whether pursuing advancement within daycare management or exploring related fields, the experience provides a strong foundation for continued impact in child development and family support.
Ready to advance your daycare manager career? Whether you’re just starting out or looking to move into senior leadership, having a compelling resume is essential for showcasing your unique blend of educational expertise and operational management skills. Build your professional resume with Teal’s free resume builder and create a standout application that highlights your passion for early childhood education and your proven ability to create nurturing, successful learning environments.