One coach per location
A large group of pedagogical coaches visits our locations daily. Each location has access to a pedagogical coach who provides advice or supports childcare professionals during their work. Together with the childcare professionals, the location manager determines a goal they want to work on for the year. The team documents this in the pedagogical focus plan for the year.
Annual coaching
The coach ensures that all childcare professionals at a location receive some form of coaching every year, strengthening their pedagogical practices. This includes professionals in training, temporary staff and staff from an agency. Coaching can be provided individually or in a team setting. Coaches offer coaching on-site, using video footage, through team meetings, or a combination of all three. In some specific cases, coaching may be conducted by a pedagogical specialist or an external coach.
Pedagogical questions
Childcare professionals can always turn to their coach with pedagogical questions, such as about setup, group dynamics and managing conflicts. Colleagues on the group have the knowledge, experience and know-how to handle situations effectively. A coach observes what happens on the group and asks questions to prompt reflection on certain situations. What are they doing? How do they observe and listen to the children? What is the atmosphere like in the group?
General tips are often not applicable because calming a crying baby, soothing an upset child or reducing turmoil in an after-school care setting varies depending on the child(ren) and situation. More important is focusing on creating a safe atmosphere with good structure and personal space for everyone. We gather all questions, which provide valuable input for policy development, training, inspiration and other forms of support.
Coaching plan
The pedagogical coach records agreements in a coaching plan, which can be revisited next time. During a pedagogical meeting with the location manager, the coach shares findings, advice and additional information.
Observational support
When there are concerns about a child's behaviour, the coach observes. The coach assists a childcare professional in interacting with the child, aiming to improve their ability to observe and support the child. Therefore, the pedagogical coach never makes a diagnosis about a child. They also do not directly engage with parents but do assist childcare professionals in asking the right questions.
Strong together
To effectively support everyone, coaches work on-site as much as possible. This allows childcare professionals to easily approach them with questions. The coach also has regular meetings with the location manager and quality manager. This collaborative effort contributes to creating a strong pedagogical environment!
Ready for the future?
At our daycare centers we encourage children to develop through play. Together with peers they discover their talents and learn to care for themselves, each other and the world around them. Every child at their own pace and in their own way.