Article Link: http://exchangepress.com/article/principles-and-strategies-for-coaching-and-mentoring/5012082/
With the revolving door we face in trying to staff our child care programs, there is a growing desire among directors to learn how to set up coaching and mentoring systems. Ideally, a peer coaching process not only helps newcomers to the field but enhances the professional development and retention of those who have more expertise. However, given the financial and organizational limitations that typically bind directors, you will probably need to do most of the coaching yourself, at least initially.To be sure, there are contradictions inherent in having the role of supervisor and coach in one person. The trust, open communication, and mutual respect required for healthy mentoring relationships are difficult to maintain when one party has the power to hire and fire.
For you to be an effective coach, you will need a clear distinction in your mind between evaluating and seeking compliance on the one hand and nurturing a learning process on the other. Understanding the difference between "telling" and a pedagogy which helps people construct their own understandings and become reflective teachers is central to your ability to enhance quality job performance.
PRINCIPLE
Think in terms of a learning and empowerment process
As a director, start with yourself, enhancing your ...