The Director’s Planner: Week of December 2, 2024
On slowing down, upcoming enrollment, and Cyber Monday deals for your center!
1 Weekly Challenge
Set Yourself Up for Success in the New Year!
January is historically one of the best months of the entire year for enrollment growth! With parents often making childcare decisions at the end of the year—whether they’re seeking a fresh start or a better fit—this is your chance to fill any open spots you have.
Here’s your challenge for the week:
1. Website Clean Up: Review your website to ensure all information is current, accurate, and easy to navigate.
2. Plan an Open House: Schedule at least one open house for late December or early January. An open house is a powerful way to showcase your program to potential families.
3. Spread the Word: Share details your open house and any end-of-year promotions with leads in your database and offer a referral bonus to employees and families. Make it easy for prospective families to RSVP and engage with your center!
A little preparation now can lead to a strong start in the new year!
2 Thoughts to Consider
I. “The quieter you become, the more you can hear.” – Ram Dass
The hustle of December often leaves little room for stillness, yet this is precisely when mindfulness can be most valuable. As a leader, making space for quiet reflection and truly listening—to your team, your families, and even yourself—can reveal the subtle needs and opportunities you might otherwise miss. This week, carve out a few moments for intentional quiet. Let these small moments renew your focus as you begin to wrap up the year.
II. “We don’t see things as they are, we see them as we are.” -Anaïs Nin
As leaders in childcare, our perspectives influence how we handle challenges, whether they’re related to staff, parents, or children. This week, consider: How might your current mindset be shaping your leadership? Are you making space to understand others’ perspectives, or are you reacting based on your own assumptions or experiences? Reflecting on this can help you lead with more clarity and empathy.
3 Action Items
I. Send your monthly newsletter
It is time to send your monthly newsletter! Insiders can check out the December Resource Toolkit for pre-written content and a few fun ideas for you to engage your staff and families over the next month. This month includes pre-written newsletter content, a printable education spotlight for staff, and ideas on how to host a gingerbread house contest for your team or celebrate winter solstice. And the best part? All of the pre-work is done for you. So you just get to follow the plan and have fun!
II. Don’t miss our on Cyber Monday
Black Friday might be behind us, but Cyber Monday is here, offering the perfect opportunity to stock up on end-of-year gifts or start planning for teacher appreciation in the spring!
Looking for inspiration? Here are a few of my favorite Cyber Monday finds for Directors!
And don’t forget: My Small Business Saturday deal ends this weekend! Join now to save 25% on your monthly membership and gain access to all my resources.
III. Ensure holiday plans are on track
If your center is celebrating the holidays this season, it’s time to double-check your plans! Whether it’s a music recital, family breakfast, or classroom party, the upcoming month can get busy.
Take a moment to: review your calendar for upcoming events, confirm you have all necessary supplies, ensure reminders and communication to families/staff/venues are sent out on time. Staying organized now will help everything run smoothly and keep the holiday season joyful for everyone!