Chat Transcripts

Topic

Chat Session 2

Date

2025-12-01

Group ID

0

Course ID

301569

User List

Butler-Robinson, LafayetteDeVaughn, HeatherFerrusca, LadyGantt, TriciaHernandez Alcoser, CinthiaSadiki, NazliyaSnabb, JackieStaudt, SaraVilla, Johanna{Ellingson, Dana}
User Timestamp Message
{Ellingson, Dana}06:53:00 pmWelcome, everyone! As you come in, share one word that summarizes your weekend.
Snabb, Jackie06:58:44 pmFUN! Hello everyone!
Butler-Robinson, Lafayette06:58:46 pmGood evening. sick
DeVaughn, Heather06:59:26 pmHello everyone!
DeVaughn, Heather06:59:56 pmWeekend was productive
Gantt, Tricia07:00:19 pmHi everyone! Busy!
Hernandez Alcoser, Cinthia07:04:34 pmHi everyone !
{Ellingson, Dana}07:04:53 pmTake a look at the intro question as you come in!
{Ellingson, Dana}07:05:31 pmSick! Lafayette...sorry to hear.
Hernandez Alcoser, Cinthia07:05:38 pmIt’s been a great weekend, I’m in Mexico for vacation!!
Staudt, Sara07:05:52 pmHi! Sorry I am late! Word was restful 🙂
Gantt, Tricia07:05:59 pmCinthia - ENJOY!!
Sadiki, Nazliya07:06:13 pmHi it was a busy week
Hernandez Alcoser, Cinthia07:07:15 pmThank you, Tricia!
{Ellingson, Dana}07:08:11 pmReady for the first question tonight? *
Hernandez Alcoser, Cinthia07:08:18 pm*
Sadiki, Nazliya07:08:20 pmyes*
Staudt, Sara07:08:23 pm*
Butler-Robinson, Lafayette07:08:24 pm*
Snabb, Jackie07:08:33 pm*
DeVaughn, Heather07:08:32 pm*
Gantt, Tricia07:08:51 pm*
{Ellingson, Dana}07:09:32 pmThe Code's first principle (P-1.1) “has precedence over all others in this Code”. What does this mean? Restate the Principle in your own words.
Gantt, Tricia07:09:49 pmIt means children come first, always. No matter the situation, relationship, or pressure, our responsibility to the child’s well-being and safety outweighs everything else. In my own words: “When things get complicated, choose what protects and supports the child.”
Ferrusca, Lady07:09:51 pmHello everyone
DeVaughn, Heather07:09:58 pmWe have a responsibility to care for children’s well being.
Hernandez Alcoser, Cinthia07:10:46 pmThe child’s well-being comes before everything else.
Snabb, Jackie07:10:55 pmThe best interest of the child always comes first, no matter how complicated the dilemma is.
Butler-Robinson, Lafayette07:11:45 pmChildren are our number 1 propriety, and we need to make sure that they always feel safe.
Sadiki, Nazliya07:11:55 pmChildren come first,theire safety, development and everything allong with it
Staudt, Sara07:11:58 pmTo me it means that the safety and wellbeing of children is our top priority, no matter what.
Ferrusca, Lady07:12:36 pm means that our main responsibility is to protect and support the well-being of the children above anything else. Their safety, development, and best interests must always be the priority, even if it conflicts with other expectations, policies, or pressures.
{Ellingson, Dana}07:13:29 pmREMINDER: interact with one another's chat posts here
Gantt, Tricia07:14:13 pmLady - I love that you mentioned the development piece - that is so true and can be child centered specifically!
Hernandez Alcoser, Cinthia07:14:46 pmSara, Exactly their safety always comes first.
Snabb, Jackie07:15:24 pmTricia, I liked what you said it meant to you, choose what protects and supports the child
Staudt, Sara07:15:34 pmCinthia - I love how succinctly you put it.
Ferrusca, Lady07:15:42 pmtotally agree about safety decitions, the kids are our treasure
Hernandez Alcoser, Cinthia07:15:53 pmLady; Right our first responsibility is to protect and support children’s well-being above anything else.
{Ellingson, Dana}07:15:58 pmNext question *
Butler-Robinson, Lafayette07:16:01 pmI agree with everyone. Children knows if they are loved and feel safe at their center and with staff
Ferrusca, Lady07:16:01 pm*
Butler-Robinson, Lafayette07:16:07 pm*
Villa, Johanna07:16:09 pm*
Gantt, Tricia07:16:13 pm*
Snabb, Jackie07:16:16 pm*
Sadiki, Nazliya07:16:18 pmWe are doing this for the young children so they are the priorty as everyone mention
Hernandez Alcoser, Cinthia07:16:21 pm*
Sadiki, Nazliya07:16:28 pm*
DeVaughn, Heather07:16:28 pm*
{Ellingson, Dana}07:16:54 pmEthical Finesse: What does this mean? What does it look like? Paint a picture of a time you used ethical finesse in the past. What is a Code of Ethics? Why is it important? What does it provide for a profession?
Gantt, Tricia07:17:17 pmEthical finesse is finding a way to meet everyone’s needs without causing unnecessary conflict. It’s not choosing sides; it’s finding a thoughtful middle ground. I use ethical finesse often during transitions .. supporting a family’s wishes while protecting classroom stability. For example, when a parent wanted to stay during drop-off in a way that disrupted the room, I worked with them to create a plan where they could check in without prolonging the separation. It honored the family but kept the focus on what children needed.
Gantt, Tricia07:17:33 pmCode of Ethics: ’s a shared set of expectations that guide our decisions. It’s important because it takes the guesswork out of tough situations and keeps emotion from driving decisions. It provides consistency, clarity, protection, and a foundation for professionalism.
Gantt, Tricia07:17:42 pmIt's *
DeVaughn, Heather07:18:21 pmEthical finesse is a solution that makes everyone happy, where one side doesn't have to get bad news
Hernandez Alcoser, Cinthia07:18:33 pmIt protects children, supports fairness, and helps everyone in a profession follow the same standards.
Villa, Johanna07:18:38 pmEthical finesse is the skillset of meeting several needs/ wants that may begin as opposing desires.
Gantt, Tricia07:18:51 pmHeather - I like how you said one side doesn't have to get bad news! That is simple way of putting it!
Hernandez Alcoser, Cinthia07:19:07 pmGreat point Johanna.
Sadiki, Nazliya07:19:10 pmWhen there is ethical dileemma with out causing any conflit profesonelly solving the problem
Staudt, Sara07:20:13 pmEthical finesse means navigating ethics carefully to ensure that you are finding a solution that is best for everyone - there is no winner/loser. I used ethical finesse earlier today when navigating a family's needs for care with meeting the child's needs that are greater than what we can provide - working with a family to provide a supported transition and find the right resources for their child.
Sadiki, Nazliya07:20:15 pmTrica keeping the emotion out of it very imortant
Ferrusca, Lady07:20:31 pmEthical finesse means handling a difficult situation in an ethical way—respecting rules, communicating carefully, and finding a fair solution without harming anyone.
Gantt, Tricia07:20:46 pmSara - it is so hard to have those conversations with families and I feel like it is happening more and more these days with kiddos with differing needs!
DeVaughn, Heather07:20:54 pmI like that Sars, supported transition...
Ferrusca, Lady07:20:51 pmA Code of Ethics is a set of principles that guides professional behavior. It is important because it helps us make the right decisions, especially in complex situations.
Hernandez Alcoser, Cinthia07:21:04 pmI agree with you Tricia.
Snabb, Jackie07:21:05 pmI feel a COE is a guideline for fairness and equity for children, families and staff. Ethical Finesse to me is when you are faced with a complicated dilemma and you work out or negotiate a way to make both sides happy. I have had a situation where staff wanted a child terminated for behavior that had been happening, we worked to get the child and family some help with a few things, the behaviors improved and we didn't lose a client
Villa, Johanna07:21:08 pma code of ethics provides a framework of aggreedabon expectations, values, and believes that people are committed to living out. it is essential for professions, especially 'people' focused profession to have a code of ethics to act as a North Star in our work. It can help guide as the environment and culture around us changes
Staudt, Sara07:21:41 pmTricia - I was just talking with my director about this. With the growing amount of intense needs, I do feel like (ethically) we have to examine our programming & the needs of our families and reimagine the supports we can provide them.
{Ellingson, Dana}07:21:55 pmOverall, the group describes ethical finesse as the ability to navigate opposing needs in a way that reduces conflict and avoids leaving anyone feeling dismissed. It’s about finding balanced solutions that honor multiple perspectives. The Code of Ethics is seen as an essential guide that provides clarity, consistency, protection, and shared professional standards, helping ensure decisions are fair and grounded rather than emotional. With that foundation, we can move to the next question:*
Staudt, Sara07:22:06 pm*
Gantt, Tricia07:22:07 pm*
Butler-Robinson, Lafayette07:22:06 pmEthical finesse means dealing with difficult situations with skill, respect and integrity.
Hernandez Alcoser, Cinthia07:22:11 pm*
DeVaughn, Heather07:22:11 pmCode of ehtics: It’s a compass for our actions. It provides a guide for finding resolutions, based on core values of the profession.
Villa, Johanna07:22:14 pm*
Ferrusca, Lady07:22:14 pm*
DeVaughn, Heather07:22:25 pm*
Sadiki, Nazliya07:22:30 pm*
Snabb, Jackie07:22:50 pm*
Butler-Robinson, Lafayette07:22:54 pm*
{Ellingson, Dana}07:23:44 pm Ethical responsibilities can put you in an unpopular place. How will you prepare yourself for this?
Butler-Robinson, Lafayette07:23:52 pmCode of ethics is a set of standards that guides how professionals should act in tough situations.
Gantt, Tricia07:24:02 pmI prepare by grounding myself in the Code and reminding myself that decisions aren’t about pleasing people, they’re about doing what’s right. I also practice communicating calmly and clearly, explaining the why behind decisions so even if people disagree, they understand.
Ferrusca, Lady07:24:12 pmI prepare myself by staying grounded in the Code of Ethics and remembering that my job is to protect children and act professionally. I remind myself to stay calm, communicate respectfully, and not take things personally. I also prepare by practicing how to explain my decisions clearly, seeking support from colleagues or supervisors when needed, and staying confident that doing the right thing is more important than being liked.
Gantt, Tricia07:24:23 pmI feel like I have to do this with my staff AND my families!
DeVaughn, Heather07:24:39 pmI’ve been there many times. I always start my conversation by expressing my care for the family/child/staff member before tackling the issue, then let them know that I am bound by certain professional guidelines, so based on that…xyz.
Butler-Robinson, Lafayette07:24:49 pmI agree with you Tricia. Being on the side of right and wrong when dealing with people and the situation at hand.
Gantt, Tricia07:25:03 pmYes Heather - we call this the "sandwich" method and feel we do it often!
Snabb, Jackie07:25:11 pmThe COE will help, like the quote says back against the wall, COE will help you stand tall. If you are making that tough decision the COE will back you up.
Hernandez Alcoser, Cinthia07:25:26 pmI’ll prepare by staying grounded in the Code of Ethics, reminding myself that my responsibility is to the children first. I’ll stay calm, communicate respectfully, and stand firm in doing what’s right even when it’s not popular.
Ferrusca, Lady07:25:22 pmi am thinking very similar than you Tricia, about parctice calming and crearly communication
Staudt, Sara07:25:34 pmI prepare myself by reminding myself that my job is not to be liked - it is to be grounded in the code of ethics (and consistency, while it can be unpopular at times, typically leads to people feeling pretty good overall). Then grounding myself in the code of ethics and the "why" of decisions, so I can justify my less-popular choices to staff or supervisors.
Sadiki, Nazliya07:25:44 pmI prepare by staying grounded in the Code of Ethics, seeking guidance when needed, and keeping my decisions transparent and respectful. I also work on staying calm, communicating clearly, and separating my emotions from my responsibilities. Most importantly, I remind myself that leadership sometimes means standing alone,but doing so with integrity, compassion, and professionalism.
Hernandez Alcoser, Cinthia07:25:49 pmYes Heather!!!
Snabb, Jackie07:26:07 pmGood point Sara, our job is not to be liked!
Staudt, Sara07:26:35 pmI love how many people brought up calm & clear communication! That is so important - and I have grown to really appreciate those who are calm & clear communicators
Sadiki, Nazliya07:26:37 pmI think that is where we losse it when we want to be liked
Butler-Robinson, Lafayette07:26:40 pmCOE gives clear expectations, accountability, professional credibility and a shard foundation for ethical behavior
Gantt, Tricia07:26:50 pmLeadership can absolutely feel like we are standing alone sometimes, Nazliya!
Ferrusca, Lady07:26:54 pmi re,eber practice many times a hard conversation wih families about something trying to avoid miss communication
DeVaughn, Heather07:27:06 pmNazliya, so important to separate the emotions from the responsibilities. Not always easy
Snabb, Jackie07:27:11 pmI feel alone a lot. LOL
Villa, Johanna07:27:12 pmI think the an essential step to setting yourself up for success is accepting that reality that leadership does not equal every one liking every decision all the time. It can be easy for professionals in child care to fall victim to our 'people pleasing' sides and forget to trust our selves, our believes and build a tolerance for being in the discomfort of not pleasing every person (staff or family). Communicating clearly and calmly goes a long way with staff and family. Always restating what they said back to them with a "im here...is that what you mean?" is helpful backpack language for me
Sadiki, Nazliya07:27:29 pmI like the sandwith methoed idea as well.
Staudt, Sara07:27:55 pmJohanna - I love the restating of what people said! I agree that it is super helpful.
Hernandez Alcoser, Cinthia07:28:15 pmI love your answer Johanna
Villa, Johanna07:28:29 pmI was also once told by a mentor that if you aren't ruffling a few feathers, you may not truly be leading
Gantt, Tricia07:28:42 pmI like that Johanna!
Sadiki, Nazliya07:28:54 pmha ha that is nice
Butler-Robinson, Lafayette07:29:11 pmmost times when in difficult issues, I always let the person knows, being a parent or staff what the rules are to that situation and that helps me give a precise answer without compromising.
Staudt, Sara07:29:52 pmLafayette - I agree that having clear policies to lean on is really helpful.
{Ellingson, Dana}07:30:09 pmAcross your responses, there’s a clear theme: preparing for unpopular ethical decisions starts with staying firmly grounded in the Code of Ethics. Many of you emphasized centering children’s well-being, staying calm, communicating clearly, and separating personal emotions from professional responsibilities. There’s also a shared understanding that leadership often requires standing firm, even when the decision isn’t well-received, and that clarity, consistency, and professionalism help others understand the “why” behind difficult choices. With that in mind, let’s move to the next question*
Staudt, Sara07:30:31 pm*
Ferrusca, Lady07:30:27 pm*
Hernandez Alcoser, Cinthia07:30:35 pm*
Villa, Johanna07:30:38 pm*
Gantt, Tricia07:30:38 pm*
Sadiki, Nazliya07:30:41 pm*
Butler-Robinson, Lafayette07:30:42 pm*
{Ellingson, Dana}07:30:58 pmWhat resources do you have access to help guide and support you during an ethical dilemma?
Gantt, Tricia07:31:20 pmNAEYC Code of Ethics YMCA policies and licensing regulations My supervisor and HR Trusted colleagues and mentors My own reflective practice and documentation
Butler-Robinson, Lafayette07:31:24 pmmy policies and procedures
Staudt, Sara07:31:57 pmI lean on NAEYC code of ethics, policies and procedures, other childcare directors within the organization, and my supervisor and HR.
DeVaughn, Heather07:31:57 pmNAEYC code of ethics, Licensing worker, Online professional daycare groups, my contracts and policies
Hernandez Alcoser, Cinthia07:32:02 pmI can use the Code of Ethics, school policies, my director, and experienced coworkers to guide me.
Ferrusca, Lady07:32:13 pmThe first resource I look for is the handbook, because from there I can share the same information with families or teachers that has already been provided and that everyone has access to.
Snabb, Jackie07:32:23 pmThe NAEYC Code and our code of ethics per our policies and procedures and my Executive Director
Hernandez Alcoser, Cinthia07:32:51 pmYes Jackie, I agree!
Ferrusca, Lady07:32:47 pmexactly the policy that each center has.
Sadiki, Nazliya07:33:00 pmLicensor is one of the big resorce we some time hesitant to use. Naeys code of ethics, mentor,or a supevisor
Staudt, Sara07:33:05 pmLady - I agree! The handbook is always a great place to start.
Villa, Johanna07:33:05 pmLicensing, NAEYC code of ethics, policies handbooks, licensor, mentors in the field
{Ellingson, Dana}07:33:08 pmNext question *
Villa, Johanna07:33:13 pm*
Sadiki, Nazliya07:33:13 pm*
Staudt, Sara07:33:16 pm*
Gantt, Tricia07:33:19 pmHeather - YES to our licensor - They are actually helpful!
Ferrusca, Lady07:33:13 pm*
Gantt, Tricia07:33:22 pm*
Snabb, Jackie07:33:27 pm*
{Ellingson, Dana}07:33:33 pmWhat is the difference between a “resolution” and a “solution”? How could this knowledge help you in smoothing the waters with irate parents or teachers?
Gantt, Tricia07:34:04 pmA solution “fixes” it; a resolution helps everyone move forward even if the fix isn’t perfect.
Gantt, Tricia07:34:19 pmThis helps because parents and staff often want a quick fix, but sometimes we need to focus on understanding, partnership, and forward progress, not perfection. It creates space for collaboration instead of defensiveness.
Hernandez Alcoser, Cinthia07:34:36 pmA solution fixes the problem; a resolution helps people move forward calmly. This helps me smooth things over by focusing on peace and understanding first, then solving the issue.
DeVaughn, Heather07:34:40 pmA resolution is the best course of action you decide to implement based on weighing and balancing the the principles of the code. It is not fixed, like a solution, and could be changed.
Ferrusca, Lady07:34:40 pmA solution is a fix to a problem it ends the issue completely. A resolution is an agreement or understanding about how to move forward, even if the problem doesn’t disappear right away.
Staudt, Sara07:35:02 pmA solution is a potential "fix" or answer to a problem. A resolution helps everyone move forward, even if the resolution does not necessarily solve or fix the issue completely.
Sadiki, Nazliya07:35:01 pmnderstanding this difference reminds me that I don’t always have to “fix everything” to calm a tough situation. Sometimes people just want to feel heard, respected, and supported. By aiming for a resolution, I can focus on restoring trust, communicating clearly, and finding a path forward that everyone can live with. This approach softens emotions, reduces defensiveness, and helps me guide conversations back to collaboration and understanding.
Butler-Robinson, Lafayette07:35:10 pmresolution - agree to disagree sometimes and solution will be the fix to the problem
Snabb, Jackie07:35:16 pmA solution solves the problem, a resolution is a like a negotiation to move beyond the issue
Villa, Johanna07:35:40 pma solution fixes a problem but does not necessarily take into account how people feel about the solution. a resolution is a middle ground solution that people from opposing sides can accept to move forward through. I think it is important to strive for resolutions but also be okay with the reality that some problems and conflicts may only have solutions (aka may not lead to a resolution that all parties are pleased with)
Staudt, Sara07:36:05 pmJackie - I love how you framed it as a negotiation to move past it! Sometimes there isn't a fix for an issue (like sending sick kiddos home), so all that is left is talking and moving past it!
Gantt, Tricia07:36:05 pmLady - I like the agreement part about moving forward .. it isn't always perfect but if we have a common ground of wanting to move forward we can get their quicker!
Sadiki, Nazliya07:36:29 pmTricia thats true some times it does need the long term solution
Villa, Johanna07:36:31 pmlady, great point! a resolution does not necessarily mean the problem goes away, but that you are agreeing on a way forward
Butler-Robinson, Lafayette07:36:30 pmeveryone is saying the same thing
Snabb, Jackie07:37:17 pmexactly Tricia! Thank you!
{Ellingson, Dana}07:37:52 pmYour responses show that preparing for unpopular ethical decisions means staying grounded in the Code of Ethics, communicating calmly, and focusing on what is right rather than what is popular. You also highlighted an important distinction: a solution fixes a problem, while a resolution helps people move forward, even without a perfect fix. This mindset supports collaboration and reduces defensiveness when emotions run high. With that understanding, here’s the next question*
Hernandez Alcoser, Cinthia07:38:05 pm*
Sadiki, Nazliya07:38:06 pm*
Villa, Johanna07:38:10 pm*
Staudt, Sara07:38:16 pm*
Gantt, Tricia07:38:16 pm*
Snabb, Jackie07:38:23 pm*
Ferrusca, Lady07:38:18 pmi have menay situations where the problem doesn't have a short solutions or it is completly satisfactory for the families but we show the parent how we can move foward and continue s working together
Ferrusca, Lady07:38:22 pm*
DeVaughn, Heather07:38:28 pm*
Butler-Robinson, Lafayette07:38:34 pm*
{Ellingson, Dana}07:39:54 pmHow can you create a safe space for parents/teachers to ask you to re-evaluate a resolution if they feel it’s not effective?
Ferrusca, Lady07:40:04 pmIn my opinion, the most important thing is to be very transparent with both the teachers and the parents. When there are mistakes made by the administration, by a teacher, or when something makes someone uncomfortable, it is essential to be clear and not try to hide or cover up information that could be important. Along with this, besides identifying the problem and being honest about it, we should also try to find a solution. Many times the issue is not just that problems exist, but that no solutions are offered. That is when people start to feel confused and dissatisfied.
Gantt, Tricia07:40:33 pmBe approachable, open, and nonjudgmental. Normalize check-ins. Share that adjustments are part of the process. Invite feedback and show that you’re willing to reflect and revisit decisions.
Hernandez Alcoser, Cinthia07:40:48 pmBy staying open, listening without judgment, and inviting honest feedback. I let them know it’s okay to come back, and I’m willing to adjust the plan together if it’s not working.
Staudt, Sara07:41:09 pmI think having a strong base relationship with everyone ahead of time is key. Then building in check-ins, inviting feedback, and being open about your mistakes/errors and owning them creates a safe space for honest dialogue.
DeVaughn, Heather07:41:20 pmOffer a follow up meeting to evaluate how things are going after a set period of time, or let them know your door is open if new information or issues come to light.
Butler-Robinson, Lafayette07:41:47 pmMy door is always open to listen to staff and parents. I will allow them to say what they feel is important to them and then explain to them how it can or cannot work inside this center. I try to be opened minded about the situation
Sadiki, Nazliya07:42:07 pmBy approching the both parties. without a judgement listenein what they have to say. By staying calm, approachable, and transparent, I build trust. I follow up proactively, check in on how things are going, and show that adjustments are a normal part of supporting children and families. When people know they won’t be dismissed or blamed, they feel comfortable returning to the table.
Snabb, Jackie07:42:22 pmI always try to be as open and honest, transparent, with parents and staff. I always tell them if something else related comes up or they'd like to talk more after digesting what the conversation we just had, I'm always available and ready to listen.
Villa, Johanna07:42:27 pmon the 'simpler end' it is being approachable, building relationships with all staff and parents, being available at busying pick up and drop off times. you can also build systems with staff around normalizing check ins, having regular 1:1 where each meeting has a built in opportunity to give feedback. We try to be proactive and ask for as much feedback ahead of making decisions.
Gantt, Tricia07:42:31 pmLafayette - being open minded can be so hard, especially in times of conflict! It's easy for me to want to shut down.
Hernandez Alcoser, Cinthia07:42:50 pmI agree Tricia!
Snabb, Jackie07:42:54 pmI love that everyone said stay open!!
Ferrusca, Lady07:43:43 pmAbsolutely, it is very important stay open for everyone, teachers, cooker, families
Sadiki, Nazliya07:43:51 pmOne of the bigger thing you learn to listen to people without your opinion is big
{Ellingson, Dana}07:44:02 pmWow, this was a jam-packed chat. We did not even get to all the questions! Be sure to reflect on the questions that we missed (found in the syllabus). Thank you all for your contributions tonight. Please email me if you are missing any chats/DBs so we can make a plan. Remember that you should be contacting our instructors before or just after a missed chat or assignment. You can only miss one chat session (that should be made up).
Hernandez Alcoser, Cinthia07:44:53 pmThanks
Ferrusca, Lady07:44:56 pmthank you
Staudt, Sara07:45:08 pmThank you!
Gantt, Tricia07:45:10 pmThank you Dana - appreciate you!
Sadiki, Nazliya07:45:15 pmThank you
DeVaughn, Heather07:45:24 pmThank u
Butler-Robinson, Lafayette07:45:41 pmTricia - for me I have been the parent, I'm a grandparent, been a staff person so i try to understand all angles but I always will stay on the side of right cause at the end of the day, staff and parents can leave and go to another center
{Ellingson, Dana}07:45:42 pmThank you and good night!
Butler-Robinson, Lafayette07:46:17 pmgood night
Snabb, Jackie07:47:35 pmThank you all! Good night!!