This paper describes the work of day care directors in terms of four functions. The first function is that of assuming legal responsibility and accountability. This function includes accepting punishment in case of wrongdoing; representing the organization to the government and the public; and meeting state licensure standards and other standards. The fulfillment of this function depends on the type of day care organization. Private agencies may be either for-profit or not-for-profit, and may involve self-employed persons, proprietorships, partnerships, or corporations. For-profit corporations may take the form of a franchise, chain, or turnkey corporation. The second function of a day care administrator is that of "making policy happen." The administrator must ensure that there is a process for establishing and reexamining policy. This function is dependent on the center's organizational or bureaucratic structure and its style of decision making. The third function is that of maintaining the center's survival. This function involves conforming to environmental and legal guidelines, and cultivating sources of funding. The fourth function is that of taking care of staff. The administrator must attend to staff's financial, safety, and social needs. (BC)