Onboarding new staff in childcare settings is important because these roles directly impact young children’s lives. A well organised onboarding process helps new staff, and casual educators, feel supported, prepared, and aligned with the centre’s needs.
At Save Our Service, we ensure that all our educators are equipped to jump in ratio at any centre they are working at, however this also means that the centre must have an effective induction.
Here are some of our tips on creating an effective onboarding for new childcare staff:
1. Prepare Before They Arrive
Start onboarding before the new staff member’s first day. Provide educators with information about the centre’s expectations, daily routines, and practical details like dress code. This way the educator will be able to arrive at your centre ready to take on the day.
2. Have a Structured Orientation
An organised orientation introduces new staff to the centre’s policies, procedures, and key details. Cover essential topics such as child safety, hygiene practices, emergency procedures, and the centre’s educational philosophy. This helps new hires understand their role and what’s expected of them.
3. Assign a Mentor or Buddy
Pair new staff with a mentor or buddy. This person will guide them through daily routines, answer questions, and provide advice. Having a mentor helps new staff adjust to their role and understand the centre’s culture and expectations.
4. Train on Child Development and Behaviour
Provide focused training on critical areas such as child development and behaviour management. This can be done through short workshops or handouts. Practical examples and role-playing help them apply these skills effectively, even if they are working only on a casual basis.
5. Check-In Regularly and Provide Feedback
Throughout their shift, regularly check in with the educator. Provide any feedback so they can understand what they are doing right and guide them in improving their performance.
6. Foster a Collaborative Environment
Encourage new staff to work with their colleagues, share ideas, and participate in group activities. Team-building activities during onboarding can help build strong working relationships and a supportive team environment.
7. Support Ongoing Learning
Onboarding shouldn’t end after the first few weeks. Offer ongoing training and professional development to help staff grow and stay engaged. Workshops on new trends or techniques keep their skills up to date and support their career growth.
Effective onboarding in childcare centres involves more than just training; it’s about creating a supportive environment where new staff feel prepared and motivated. By investing in a thoughtful onboarding process, centres help new hires succeed and ensure that children receive the best care and support.
Need support in creating an effective onboarding process, or looking for new staff members? Call Save Our Service, our friendly childcare recruitment agency team are ready to answer any questions!