This article will explore the role of the director in modeling reflective practice as a tool to move a program toward programmatic excellence. Child care directors are closely involved in all aspects of the child care program; they supervise and support teachers and staff and work with children and families. They are responsible for administering the program. They are the program manager and center manager. This article will suggest ways to incorporate more reflective practices into our programs at Kennedy Heights Community Center. The literature on self-reflective practice will be explored and analyzed to support the article's thesis that reflective practice is a tool on the path to excellence. The limits and weaknesses of reflective practice will also be explored. Reflection – Literature Review In his article entitled Becoming a Personal Mentor, Bloom states: “The ability to reflect and engage in frank introspection is at the heart of achieving self-awareness. Reflective practitioners think creatively, imaginatively, and sometimes self-critically about what they do. Individuals who use diverse reflective practices have a better understanding of themselves” (p. 55). If we value continuous programmatic improvements, practitioners must know themselves to effectively change and improve. Teachers and principals cannot adjust or improve their attitudes or behaviors if they are unable to honestly acknowledge and take ownership of their actions. Reflection can help bridge the gap between “theories espoused and theories in action” (Bloom, 2007). The best written textbooks and program manuals are meaningless if teachers and principals do not implement the program philosophy and vision as written. If the centers talk...... middle of paper ......d care and education to know what excellence looks like, but also a knowledge of adult education to lead all teachers to seek excellence. While reflective practice is an essential part of professional development, the program administrator must continually advance a program toward excellence and have a deep understanding of best practices and what quality child care looks like for effectively model and facilitate reflective practice that leads to lasting change. If certain aspects of quality are concrete and stable; Many aspects of quality child care reflect the needs of children and their families and are constantly evolving. It takes management skills to maintain consistency and leadership skills to facilitate changing program needs to maintain quality. The director fulfills both roles and therefore serves as a guardian of the quality of the program.