Starting a new daycare business can be a challenging but rewarding experience. However, it’s important to be prepared and set boundaries from the start to ensure success. This blog post is full of advice for new daycare providers on setting non-negotiable rules to avoid headaches and protect your business. Whether you’re just starting or have years of experience, these tips should help you establish a strong foundation for your business.
Price High and Don’t Budge
One of the biggest mistakes new daycare providers make is to offer lower prices to attract clients. However, this can backfire. The ones who haggle you on prices often give you the most trouble and are more likely to abandon you when a cheaper option comes along. Therefore, set your prices high and stick to them. Higher prices will help you attract clients who value your service and are willing to pay for quality childcare.
At Least 1-2 Week Deposit
When you start your daycare business, it’s important to have a set deposit to cover expenses and ensure clients are invested in your services. Ask for a one or two-week deposit before the child attends your daycare. A deposit will often weed out clients who are not serious about using your services and will give you a cushion if a family suddenly decides to leave.
Quick Drop-offs
Insistent on quick and non-lingering drop-offs to avoid lingering and ensure your daycare runs smoothly. Parents should say goodbye at the door, and children should be ready to leave their parent’s side. Quick drop-offs will help alleviate any stress or anxiety children may feel during drop-offs while allowing you to start the day on time.
Morning Cut-Off Time
Nap time is essential for young children’s health and well-being, and nothing ruins it more than a child who slept in and is now 100% wide awake during nap time. Therefore, set a morning cut-off time that ensures children are up, fed, and ready for the day ahead. A morning cut-off time will help you maintain an efficient routine and avoid losing valuable nap time.
Non-Negotiable Late Fees
Clearly, outline your pick-up policy and ensure parents know that late fees are non-negotiable and will be significantly higher than the regular rate. High late fees will help you avoid problems with families who frequently pick up their children late and ensure that you’re compensated for the extra time spent watching their child.
Payment before Services
No payment, No Service. It’s best to require payment before services are rendered to avoid families not paying their bills. It’s important to communicate this policy to parents so there’s a clear understanding of how you operate your business. This policy protects your business and ensures you aren’t out of pocket for your services.
Have Backup Care and Self-Care Time
Make sure you have a plan for when emergencies or unexpected situations occur. This can include having a list of backup care options for families if you are sick or need to take a few days off. It’s important to remember that you’re the backbone of your daycare business, and taking care of yourself ensures you can provide the best care for the children in your care.
Advice for New Daycare Providers Trying to Fill Spots
It can be challenging to fill spots when starting a daycare business. As a new daycare provider, taking on anyone to fill your spaces may be tempting. However, this can be detrimental to your program in the long run. Here’s some advice on how to fill your spots with the right people.
Meet and Greet/Interviews
You must take the time to meet and interview potential families. During the meet and greet session, asking questions about their expectations and goals for their child’s daycare experience is essential. Asking questions will help you determine if their goals align with your program. Don’t be afraid to turn down families that aren’t a great fit.
Charge Appropriately
When setting your rates, it’s important to factor in the quality of your program. Don’t be afraid to charge appropriate rates for your services. When setting your rates, consider your experience, education, and program quality. Remember, you offer an essential service that requires much work and dedication.
Be Patient
Rome wasn’t built in a day, and you won’t fill your spots overnight. As a new daycare provider, establishing yourself and building a reputation may take some time. Don’t get discouraged; keep doing what you’re doing, and eventually, you will fill all your spots.
Offer Cheap Date Nights
Date Nights Service is an excellent way to get your name out there and let people know about your daycare. Offer cheap date nights to parents in your community. Parents Nights Out allow parents to experience your program before committing to full-time care. Create business cards and brochures emphasizing what makes your program stand out.
Join Local Mom’s Groups
Joining local mom groups is an excellent way to network with other parents in your community. Attending local mom’s groups is a great way to inform other parents about your business. You can also advertise on Facebook groups that have a high amount of local mothers. Consider joining nursing Facebook pages and community area Facebook pages.
Create Your Own Daycare Facebook Page
A Facebook business page is an excellent way to promote your program and share updates with potential and current families. Be sure to link your website and contact information. Don’t forget to put yourself on Yelp! Yelp is an excellent way to get your program in front of people looking for daycare services in your area.
Starting a daycare business can be challenging, but with the right strategy, you can fill your spots with the right families. Remember to stick to your rules, and you’re on the path to becoming a successful daycare provider. We hope you enjoyed our advice for new daycare providers. Explore more on how to start your own home daycare HERE.
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