Managerial problems faced by administrators working in independent kindergarten solution applications and different solution suggestions

The purpose of this study is to identify the administrative problems encountered in independent kindergartens, how administrators find solutions to these problems, and what different solution suggestions are. A basic qualitative research design, one of the qualitative research methods, was used in the study. The study group consisted of 11 administrators working in independent kindergartens in the Kağıthane district of Istanbul during the 2023-2024 academic year. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews and analyzed using content analysis. According to the administrators, bureaucracy slows down school processes, and unnecessary paperwork along with information gaps lead to a waste of time and resources. Centralized decision-making processes that do not fit local needs and lack of authority also negatively affect this situation. As solutions, it is suggested to improve communication and cooperation, increase authority, and expand technological applications. Problems related to physical structure include insufficient classrooms, lack of activity areas, and security issues. These problems restrict students' freedom of movement and negatively affect educational processes. Administrators propose solutions such as constructing schools in suitable buildings and organizing existing spaces. Economic problems include insufficient contributions and the inability to cover school expenses due to inflation. Administrators try to solve these problems by communicating effectively with parents and creating budgets. Increasing state support and the budget allocated to preschool education is also recommended. Issues related to students include behavior problems and technology addiction. Administrators seek solutions by increasing communication with parents and collaborating with guidance counselors. It is emphasized that parents need to be educated about child-rearing. Challenges related to students with special educational needs stem from delays in the diagnosis process and difficulties in acceptance by parents. Administrators offer solutions such as strengthening the educational infrastructure and raising awareness among teachers. Problems related to teachers include injustice and lack of cooperation among teachers of different statuses. Administrators solve these problems by establishing effective communication and fair task distribution. Increasing professional competencies and implementing rotation practices are recommended. Issues with auxiliary staff include insufficient budget and the inability to ensure staff continuity. Administrators suggest solutions such as state support and establishing a working order in accordance with labor law. Problems related to parents include indifference and low participation in activities. Administrators address these issues by adopting an empathetic and understanding approach and planning family participation activities. It is suggested that family education be made mandatory by the state. Finally, problems arising from changes in the preschool education program include educational deficiencies and difficulties in program supervision. Administrators try to solve these problems by communicating effectively with teachers and considering the benefit of the child. Recommendations include increasing the number of schools or classrooms and introducing mandatory attendance.