Staffing in childcare can change quickly. Someone calls in sick, an educator needs a day off, ratios change, or you simply need an extra set of hands during a busy week.

That is where supply staff can make a big difference.

Supply staff are not only there for last-minute emergencies. Having access to reliable supply educators can help your centre stay prepared and give your regular team the support they need.

When a Staff Member Calls in Sick

We all know the morning phone call.

An educator is sick and suddenly you are trying to figure out how to cover the room while maintaining ratios and keeping the day running as normally as possible.

Having supply staff available gives you another option instead of immediately moving your regular educators around or asking someone to change their schedule.

When Your Team Needs Time Off

Vacation days, appointments and personal days are all part of having a team.

Using supply staff allows your regular educators to take their scheduled time off while helping the centre continue with its usual routines.

Planning ahead for coverage can also take some of the pressure off supervisors when they know a busy period is coming.

During Busier Times

Sometimes you may technically have enough staff, but an extra educator would make the day run much more smoothly.

Maybe you have several new children transitioning into the program, a particularly busy classroom, a special activity planned or simply a week where your team could use some additional support.

Supply staff can be used to give your team that extra set of hands when they need it.

When You Are Hiring

Finding the right permanent educator takes time, and rushing the hiring process just to fill a gap is not always the best solution.

Supply staff can help provide coverage while you take the time to interview and find the right person for your team.

To Help Prevent Staff Burnout

When a centre is consistently short staffed, the impact is often felt by the educators who are there every day.

They may be asked to take on additional responsibilities, move between rooms or adjust their schedules to fill gaps.

Bringing in supply support when needed can help take some of that pressure off your regular team.

You Don’t Have to Wait Until You’re Short Staffed

One of the biggest misconceptions about supply staffing is that it should only be used when there is an emergency.

Sometimes the best time to use supply staff is before your team becomes overwhelmed.

Having additional support available gives childcare supervisors more flexibility when staffing needs change and helps keep the focus where it belongs: on the children and the program.

At MeLor, we provide childcare centres with RECE and ECA supply staff when they need additional coverage. Whether you know you need someone ahead of time or something comes up unexpectedly, our team is here to help.

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