Do You Have a "Preschool Program"?
What's your answer to this question?
It's a question that many parents will ask when looking for child care. From the parents' point of view a "preschool program" is a structured learning program that follows a set curriculum and is offered during part of the day.
In general parents react positively to the words "preschool program." They associate it with learning for their child. It has the word "school" in it!
Some family child care providers and child care centers identify themselves as having a "preschool program." Some child care program use the word "preschool" in their name.
What if you don't offer a "preschool program" as described above? Do you care for children of preschool age? If so, you do offer a program for preschoolers!
Maybe you don't follow a specific curriculum with your preschool children. Maybe you offer a much more informal program focused on what each child needs. But whatever you do for preschool children you are offering a program to help them learn.
Why is this important?
When parents look for a "preschool program" for their child you don't want to be left out because you don't use those words to describe your program. You want the parent to bring her child to you! Therefore, you need to be ready to respond to a parent who is looking for a "preschool program."
Tell the parent:
"I offer a program for preschoolers with planned learning activities geared to each child's interests."
"My curriculum is individually designed to meet the needs of each child."
"I offer a home environment where children feel safe and comfortable and where your child will be ready to succeed when they enter the school system."
Language is important. Don't be left behind by "preschool programs." Promote your program as a place where preschool children can learn and grow.
See my follow-up article on preschool.
Tom Copeland - www.tomcopelandblog.com
Image credit: https://winnie.com/place/lasting-impressions-child-care-learning-saint-paul
For more information about promoting your business, see my book Family Child Care Marketing Guide.
