How to Figure Out If It’s Time to Expand Your Child Care Business
If you get a call from at least one parent every day who’s interested in enrolling their child at your child care facility, it may be time to expand your efforts. Expanding may mean that you’ll need to move to a different facility that’s larger, and it may mean that you’ll need to hire new staff members. Calculate how much it will cost to move to a new place of business and how much it will cost to hire new staff members. Then calculate how much of a profit you’ll be able to make from each new enrollment.
Sometimes expanding may seem like a good idea, but it isn’t always necessarily. You can end up actually losing money if you expand too soon and don’t have the right number of kids enrolled as you expand. If you feel as though growing your business is the best idea for your particular situation, you may need to consider raising your prices. This, unfortunately, could mean that you may lose the business of some parents, and you might not attract as much business. Consider your clientele’s needs and financial limitations before you raise prices in order to expand.
As you can probably tell, there is some risk associated with growth. However, whenever there’s risk involved in business there’s also the opportunity for significant profit. You may need to step up your game in terms of marketing efforts if you do decide to grow. Additionally, you’ll likely have to spend some time recruiting new employees, which can be fairly time-consuming. If you already have a fairly well-established child care facility, the work associated with growth probably won’t be unmanageable.
In these tough economic times, the number of stay-at-home and work-at-home parents is on the rise, which means that interest in child care outside of the home is on the decline. However, there will always be a need for child care businesses. If you think there’s enough interest from parents, expanding could be one of the advantageous things for you. Ultimately, your particular situation will determine what’s best. Just remember not to make any rash decisions, trust your gut, and make sure you calculate the costs associated with expanding versus how much profit you’ll be able to make as a result of your business’s growth.
About Guest Author: Carolyn is a guest blogger about small business marketing who helps people get the right order management software that will work with Shopify, 3dcart, and BigCommerce.
Recommended Resources
Van Maintenance Tips!
I will be the first to admit that I am no expert when it comes to maintaining cars or vans. In fact, I call my husband when we have an issue with our childcare van.
Yesterday, I noticed that there was a nail in the rear tire of the van and seeing that nail in the tire reminded me that it is a good idea to conduct a safety inspection of the van before transporting the children.
I also noticed that the tread on the back tires were getting low, so I decided to just replace the rear tires and not worry about having a flat tire.
Today I want to inspire you to do a safety check on your vans, before transporting children in the vans. In fact, I believe that conducting a safety check will prevent an UN-expected inconvenience of a flat tire or from getting a traffic ticket because your blinker light is out.
Also, as the weather gets warmer, it is also a good idea to get your radiator checked and have all the fluids checked in your van.
Several, years ago, I received a phone call from my school-age teacher while she was on a field trip with the children and she said, “We have a flat tire.” This is why it is vital that you have really good tires and that there are two teachers on the field trip, in the event of an emergency on the road.
To assure that you are prepared in the event of an emergency, have emergency back-up transportation in place; be sure that there is a spare tire in the van and that someone is able to help the staff in the event of a van emergency.
Moreover, be sure that there are books or materials on the van that will keep the children occupied until the van is running again or until back-up transportation arrives.
Have you had your van serviced lately? If not, today is a great day to get a maintenance check. Before you transport children, be sure to check to see that the horn, blinkers, lights, brakes and wipers are working.
As always, I look forward to your comments and thoughts about this post.
With Getting Prepared For a fun and Safe Summer in mind!
Shiketa Morgan
Be sure to get your copy of the Summer Camp Planning eGuide
5 Very Important Van Safety Tips and Procedures to Follow
The summer time is a great time to take the children on fun field trips. In fact, the summertime seems to be a very busy field trip season for childcare programs and with that in mind; you must be sure that you have field trip policies and safety procedures in place that will assure that child are safe while on field trips.
According to the Department of Geosciences, “This year there have been at least two deaths of children due to hyperthermia (heat stroke) after being in hot cars, trucks, vans and SUV’s. In 2011 there were at least 33 juvenile vehicular hyperthermia fatalities.
Since 1998 there have been at least a total of 529 of these needless tragedies. This study shows that these incidents can occur on days with relatively mild (i.e., ~ 70 degrees F) temperatures and that vehicles can reach life-threatening temperatures very rapidly.”
With those statistics in mind, here are five very important van safety Procedures to follow in your Child Care Business:
- Conduct a safety check on the van before allowing the children to enter the van.
- Conduct a face to name head counts before leaving the building
- When the children exit the van (s); check the van for children before locking the doors, then conduct head counts again!
- Require that at least 2 adults are on the van with the children to verify that all the children have entered and departed the van.
- Check the van for kids, before locking the Doors!!!
For more van safety procedures or to find out how to create a fun and safe Summer program, be sure to check out the Summer Camp Planning eGuide!
Also, be sure to check out this Fact Sheet about Hyperthemia Deaths, due to children being left in vans or cars. Click here
With Summer Fun and Safety in mind!
Shiketa Morgan
5 Ways to Keep Children Cool and Hydrated on the Playground
Children love to play outdoors and they seem to care less about the temperature outdoors. In fact, they just want to play outdoors. However, it is your responsibility to make outdoor time a fun, safe and healthy experience.
Moreover, it is very important that you assure that children stay hydrated when they are playing outdoors, because children can dehydrate easily.
Here are 5 Ways to Keep Children Cool and Hydrated on the Playground:
1. Provide a shaded area for the children to relax and get out of the sun. Consider adding a tent or umbrella on the playground.
2. Take the water and cups outdoors. Having water available for the children will assure that children stay hydrated while outdoors.
3. Set-up a water table on the playground. Playing in water helps to keep the body cool.
4. Go outdoors before 10am or after 4pm.
5. Turn on the sprinklers on extremely hot days!
If you love the ideas in this blog post, be sure to leave your comments below and share this post on your social media pages. Are you planning a summer camp? Need ideas? Download your copy of the Summer Camp Planning eGuide Today!
Recommended Reading
10 signs of Heat Stroke in Children
Shiketa Morgan
How to Create a Cool Video of Your Preschool Graduates!
Several months ago, Andrea Dickerson (Owner of Akeba Academy) told me about a website called, “Animoto.” In fact, I saw a cool video of her program on her Facebook page that was created on the Animoto website. After viewing Andrea’s Video, I decided to use Animoto to market my program and events.
In fact, I just created a cool video of my preschool graduate on the Animoto website. Today I am going to share with you; how to create a cool video of your Preschool Graduates.
1. Go to http://www.animoto.com to create an account.
2. Choose your “Free” video template
3. Add words to you slides
4. Upload photos of your graduates
5. Share the video with parents
6. Be sure to upload the video to your website.
Your parents will love the fact that you took the tag to create such a memorable treasure!
With Your Preschool Graduates in mind,
Shiketa
Need Summer Camp ideas? Check out the Summer Camp Planning eGuide!
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The 2-Year Anniversary of The Child Care Business Owner Blog!
Back in April 2010, my Millionaire Mindset group leader (Cheryl Robinson) gave me a suggestion to start a website that educates other Child Care Business owners. In fact, Cheryl thought that my years in the business of childcare qualified me mentor & coach others.
In May 2010, I launched the Child Care Business Owner blog and my first blog post was, “Quality Care is Interaction.” It was not a very long blog post, however my goal was to share information that promotes quality childcare.
Why I Started The Blog
I started the blog because I developed a love of teaching and empowering others. Also, in this business, I learned from my mistakes, because I did not have a mentor in the beginning days of my child care business.
Moreover, I have years of experience building a quality childcare business and I want to share with other providers; the steps to build a quality childcare business. ” Parents want quality and nothing less.”
The Relationships That I Have Built
Over the last 2-years I have met some wonderful childcare business owners online and in my state. In fact, many of my coaching clients have become good friends and I am most grateful for the opportunity to play a role in helping other childcare business owners build a successful business.
Moreover, many of the childcare business owners that follow the Child Care Business Owner Network, also follow me on Facebook and are welcome to inbox me at anytime. ” I want You to Succeed”
Blog Contributors
I may have lots of experience, however, I do not have all the answers and this is why I invite experts to contribute to the Child Care Business Owner blog. Also, periodically I feature other childcare business owners to share their expertise on the blog.
I want to give a special thank you to the following Expert Contributors and Featured Child Care Business Owners:
Featured Businesses
Little Angels Learning Academy
Featured Experts
Linette Daniels (Youth Success)
Dr. Bisa Lewis (Infant Care/Curriculum)
Tom Copeland (Taxes/Home providers)
Benita Tyler (Taxes)
Kaylee Davis (Crib Safety)
Deborah Francis (Legal/Money)
Cathy Abrams (Curriculum)
Please forgive me if I forgot to add you to the list. However, I am so grateful for your contributions!
What I see for the Child Care Business Online
My goal is to continue to inspire and empower childcare business owners online and my goal is to one day take the network offline by creating a magazine or publication that I can send to childcare business owners all over the world.
Also, to give you what you asked for (Via survey) more e-books, blog post and e-Courses that empower you to succeed!
$2 Sale During the month of May
During the month of May 2012, all of the Child Care Business Owner resources are on sale for $2 (in honor of the 2-year anniversary.) This is a great opportunity to invest in your business! Check out the ebooks, eCourse and membership clubs today!
Thanks for allowing me play a role in your Child Care Business Journey and I look forward to reading or comments and meeting you soon!
To Your Success!
Shiketa Morgan
Building Enrollment with the Law of Reciprocity
As I was researching information for the Leadership Series of the 21-Day Mastermind e-Club, I discovered the Law of Reciprocity; when someone gives you something, you feel an obligation to give something back.
Many businesses have implemented this law into their business and this is why you will see ads that read,”Try it before you buy it, claim your free gift or take a trial run.”
Also, when you browse the web, you will find many websites that offer a free gift to their visitors. Offering a free gift to potential customers is a great way to gain influence and increase your chances of closing a sale or in childcare terms……Building Enrollment!
When I first discovered the Law of Reciprocity I introduced the Law of Reciprocity to the members of my 21-Day Mastermind e-Club and I immediately decided to offer a free gift to parents that visit my center for a tour.
After implementing the Law of Reciprocity in my childcare business, I saw an increase in enrollment. In fact, every parent that I gave a free gift enrolled their child.
Today I want to inspire you to implement the Law of Reciprocity in your childcare business. Here are three ideas on how to implement the Law of Reciprocity;
- Offer a Free Gift upon touring the program, such as; a toy or a book from the dollar store or even a home-made gift.
- When parents join your email list on your website, create and offer a free e-book. You can create a simple 3-5 page e-book using Microsoft word on your computer on the one of the following topics: parenting, activities at home, how to choose quality childcare, etc. Be sure to add your website and phone number to the last page of the e-book.
- Offer a Trial Day! Let them try it before they enroll.
As you begin to implement the Law of reciprocity, keep in mind that when you offer something free, you increase your chances of building enrollment!
For more business management tips, I invite you to join the 21-Day Mastermind e-Club; where you will discover, how to develop the Leader within you, Improve your Business Management skills and learn how to increase your business income by thinking like a Millionaire! Join Today!
When you join the club, you will get a free copy of my ebook, An Online Marketing Plan along with many other down loadable resources.
To Your Success,
Shiketa
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Activity Ideas For an Earth Friendly Child Care Program
On Friday April 13, 2012, my staff and I were preparing the upcoming theme of “Earth Day” at my childcare facility. Our objective for the theme is to teach the children how to become earth friendly. I thought I would share some of those ideas with you and the activities are as follows:
Circle Time
During circle time pose an earth friendly question of the day such as; Why do we need trees? Be ready for creative responses and ideas!
Sensory Table
Add water, boats, fish and people to water. This is a great way to promote outdoor water activities such as: fishing and pedaling boats. Idea: Ask the kids if it is better for the earth to use a boat with gas or a boat with pedals?
Science
Add a picture of a windmill and discuss how the windmill creates energy! To save energy, consider opening the blinds and having the children to work with only light that comes in from the outside. We do this every year on earth day and the kids love it!!
Art
Create an globe by encouraging the kids to mix blue and green play dough together!
Walls
Post Reduce, Reuse and Recycle signs. May be a good idea to add a recycling bin in the classroom.
Outdoors
Take the older children outdoors for a walk to clean up trash around your home or childcare center.
Language
Create an Earth Friendly word wall that consist of the following words: Water, Energy, Soil, Trees, etc.
Dramatic Play
You will need some large paper bags. Cut holes in the side of the bags for the kids arm to fit through the openings and on the front of the bag write: I am an Earth Friendly Kid (with Green Paint).
I would love to read your feedback about today’s blog post. Be sure to leave your comments. For more Earth Friendly Kids ideas, check out this Lesson plan idea, click here.
With Creating an Earth Friendly Child Care Business in Mind,
Shiketa
Crib Regulations That May Affect Your Child Care Business by Kaylee Davis
In December 2010, the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) published two new mandatory standards that would affect wooden and metal full size and compact size cribs. Starting in June of 2011, manufacturers and distributors could no longer sell cribs that did not meet these standards. By December 28, 2012, all childcare facilities and hotels will be banned from using non-compliant cribs. This means that all cribs currently in use that do not meet the new standards will need to be replaced with a compliant crib by that date.
So what does that mean for you as a childcare provider?
First, check your current cribs. It is important to know if you are currently using cribs that will need to be replaced by the end of this year. Here are a few steps you can take to ensure that you find the correct information on your crib:
Ask the manufacturer, retailer, importer or distributor to:
- Give the name, full mailing address and telephone number for the importer or domestic manufacturer and for the testing lab & record keeper
- Identify the rule to which it complies (16 CFR 1219 or 1220). If the crib you currently have does not comply with the new standards above, it is not compliant.
- Give date and location of manufacture and testing
As a rule of thumb, if your crib was manufactured BEFORE January 2011, it is most likely not compliant. There are a few manufacturers of cribs that had a few cribs that met standards in 2010, but overall, if your crib was made in 2010 or before, it is most likely not compliant.
Second, know the changes that are! Here is a list of the major changes:
1. Traditional Drop-side cribs cannot be made or sold. Please note that no retrofitting will be allowed. Immobilizers and repair kits will not make your crib compliant.
2. Wood Slats – Must be made of stronger wood to prevent breakage.
3. New Hardware - New crib standards require crib hardware to have anti-loosening devices to keep hardware from coming loose or falling off.
4. Mattress Supports - Mattress supports must be more durable.
5. Safety Testing - The safety tests that new certified cribs must undergo will be more rigorous.
Be sure to check your state regulations to make sure that the cribs you purchase will comply with your state rules too.
Third, make a plan to upgrade. Here are a few ideas:
Make a purchasing plan: Many centers need to purchase multiple cribs, which is expensive. If this is a need at your site, begin by purchasing 2-4 cribs a month, to avoid a large expense all at once.
Prevent Backorders: Due to the volume of crib orders expected in 2012, manufacturers recommend purchasing early in 2012 to avoid extended backorder delays. We are currently looking at back order times of 4-6 weeks from many vendors.
Marketing: The new regulations are being made known to the general public. Many parents will want to know if you have upgraded your cribs. A great way to market to potential parents is to let them know that your center is already in compliance with the standards.
Finally, find the crib that is right for you. There are many crib manufacturers and there is sure to be the perfect crib for your school. Whether you are looking for wooden or steel cribs, natural or white cribs, or compact or full size cribs, they are all available, so find the right one for your school! Find over 30 styles of certified cribs at www.purefunsupply.com.
There are many great resources online to help you grow in knowledge of the changes:
New crib rules guide: http://www.cpsc.gov/nsn/cribrules.pdf
Final rules from the CPSC: http://www.cpsc.gov/businfo/frnotices/fr11/cribfinal.pdf
About the Guest Blogger: My name is Kaylee Davis. I have worked as a childcare industry provider for 9 years. I also serve as a trainer in business and leadership conferences for high school and college students. I am a graduate of the University of Georgia and reside in Loganville, Georgia with my wonderful husband Keith.
If you have any further questions, I would be happy to assist you. I work closely with 4 of the major childcare crib manufacturers and I am happy to find the answer to any question you may have. You can email me at Kaylee@purefuninc.com.
5 Ways To Green Your Kids by Myra Abdus-Saboor
According to the Owner and Director of Teach Children Early Learning Center, “The warm weather is here and the kids are excited about all the fun activities they can during the summer. Your pocket is saying: Humm!
Think about all of the items you purchase regularly, that can be reused, recycled, save your family money, keep your kids happy and busy during the summer months.
Many families spend thousands of dollars on toys and activities that can be made simply and inexpensively. With just a few supplies on hand and for purchase at your local discount stores, you can create and make your own toys, games and fun summer activities”
If you desire ways to “Green Your Kids” here are some ideas to get started, Green_Your_Kids(1)
Thanks Myra for sharing such a wonderful resource. I can hardly wait to download my copy and share with my staff! Be sure to check out Myra’s Website at http://www.teachchildrenearly.com.
Do you have an Earth Friendly resource or ideas to share with other Child Care Business Owners? If so, email your idea to me at childcarenews@aol.com.
With an Earth Friendly Child Care Business in mind,
~Shiketa Morgan
A Link that you must check out:
http://ecochildsplay.com/2008/11/11/growing-up-green-how-to-raise-an-eco-aware-child/
Check out the latest Child Care Business e-Newsletter: Quality Care is Safe Care! Subscribe today!!!
Getting Parents to Pay on Time Can Be a Challenge
Are you having problems getting parents to pay their tuition on time? When parents do not pay tuition on time, this affects your cash flow. To assure that you maintain control over your cash flow, you must develop a written payment policy that makes it clear that parents are expected to pay on time.
Getting Your ChildCare Business Organized For a Great Year!
Throughout the month of January 2012, I have been preparing my center for Annual licencing Visits and it is time for us to renew Accreditation. I know it may sound like a lot of work, however, I have decided that my staff and I must get organized in order to accomplish successful licensing visits and to become re-accredited.
My first inspection of the year was a fire inspection and all went well. Our second inspection was a Sanitation and Food Service Inspection. I was so excited that the health departed rated my food service department with an “A.” When I looked at the report, I thought about all the organization that it took to assure that we passed the inspection the first time.
My next visit is my license specialist visit in February 2012 and a Missouri Accreditation observation visit in March 2012. With all of these upcoming inspections, I have found my self being more focused and organized like never before and I want to share with you some tips on how to get more organized for a Great year!
- Always be prepared for license visits. Take a look at your last inspection and strive to meet all the requirements to prevent re-visits.
- If you have employees, train them on the Licensing inspection forms and challenge them to help you to assure that your program is in compliance with your state childcare regulations. Be sure to discuss areas of improvement in the form of a weekly meeting.
- Create health/safety checklist to assure that you meet licensing/accreditation guidelines.
- Get parents feedback! Your parents will be glad to help you to create a great program. Create and issue a parent survey as soon as possible. It is vital that you know how parents feel about your program. Be sure to upload the feedback to your website or social media pages. Feel free to sample my program survey.
- Read a new business book or an entrepreneur magazine every month, to keep your creative juices going.
- When everyone leaves for the day, walk your business and look for disorder and get it organized. An organized environment looks good to the eye and kids learn best in an organized environment.
- Make a decision that this is going to be a great year for your business. In fact, you have the power to create a great childcare business with much organization and focus.
This year ,my goal is to get my business more organized, keep my office organized, finish incorporating the Reggio Emilia look, update my foyer area, update the playground, make more money than I’ve ever made in previous years and I’m looking forward to trading in my minivan for my heart’s desire.
I hope you have been inspired to organize your business for success and make this a great year in business. What are your goals for your childcare business? Feel free to share…
Shiketa
Ready to expand? Tired of dealing with staff issues? Need to think on another level? Join us in the 21-Day Mastermind e-Club!
Kids Love Dramatic Play!
One of the most popular centers at my facility is the Dramatic play area. In fact, the teachers normally have to remind the children to choose other centers until there is more room to play in the dramatic play area.
let’s think back to your childhood. Did you like to dress-up in your moms clothes or wear her make-up? Think about how that made you feel?
Kids love to role-play their parents and they love to pretend. Recently, my school-age teacher, thought it was a good idea to encourage the children to make their own store. Check out the picture below.
Source: Learning Days
The kids made the sign and the pretend money. We also added an old credit card machine and some change for the toy cash register. The objective for the store is to teach the children how to count money, how to use a credit card, how to answer the store phone and how to greet customers.
In fact, there will be many skills gained from this center. One of the children wrote me a pretend check as they prepared the store. Check it out below.
I was so excited to receive that check. Too bad I could not take it to the bank to cash it, lol. When the school-age child gave me the check, I realized the importance of having dramatic play…it enhances a child’s creativity.
Have you ever thought about creating a Dramatic play wish list? Recently I was shopping in Sams Club and I spotted a playhouse that I would love to have on my playground. (see photo below)
On my Wish list!
I hope that you have been inspired to get creative with dramatic play and create a childcare business that kids love!
If you need more ideas, check out the following sites below. I would love to hear about your dramatic play ideas. Feel free to share your comments below and send a photo of your dramatic play area to childcarenews@aol.com.
Your photos may be featured on the Child Care Business Owner network!
Have a Great Week!
Shiketa
Resource Links
Kids Love Singing Songs
When parents walk into your childcare business, they are listening to what is going on. One of the most joy-able sounds to hear in a childcare program is the sound of children singing. In fact, I have not seen one child yet that does not like to sing.
Singing songs seem to bring a spirit of cooperation in a classroom or in your home, relaxes everyone, including you and it is great to do throughout the day.
One of the things that I have discovered about singing songs is the simple fact that you can get kids to cooperate better when you are singing songs. Today I am going to share with you how you can incorporate more songs into your program, because after all….Kids love a place where they can sing!
Moreover, when the kids are happy…the parents are happy too!
Singing Songs during Transition Times
Transition times can be chaotic. In fact, anytime that you make a change throughout the day, it interrupts the kids play and some kids may even resist the change. However, incorporating songs as kids transition from activity to another is a great way to add some joy to your transition time.
Before you or your staff tell children to clean-up, it is a great idea to give children a five-minute warning. Ex, You all have five more minutes to play and then we are going to clean-up to go outdoors, prepare for lunch, read a story, set-up cots, go potty, etc. Giving a warning, prepares the child for the change and it gives them enough time finish up their play/projects.
Here are three song ideas for busy times of the day:
1. During hand washing time. “ This is the way we wash our hands, wash our hands, wash our hands, this is the way we wash our hands….. all day long.” Repeat it as many times as the child desires.
2. Singing as the kids are waiting to eat lunch. ” I smell lunch, I smell lunch, um um good, um um good. I can smell the (name food) I can smell the (name food) then have the kids to rub their tummies as they say, um um good. Repeat the songs until all food is named and served.
3. Transitioning to line-up. We’re going out to play, we’re going out to play, hi ho the Derry-o, we’re going out to play..hey! Repeat the song, as children line-up and begin to march outside.
This is was just a few songs that I have sung with children in my childcare program to make transition time much smoother and to assure that children have an enjoyable experience while they are in my program. In fact, many of the songs, I simply make-up as I go and the kids, seem to catch on as I song the song with them.
I hope that you are inspired to incorporate more songs into your program. If I were to walk in your program, what songs will I hear? Feel free to share the songs that the kids in your program love to sing and what you think about the songs in this post.
Check out this Website that is full of children songs: http://www.theteachersguide.com/ChildrensSongs.htm
Thanks for Creating a Child Care Business that kids Love!
Shiketa
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Kids Love Art!
One of the things that I have discovered that children really love and that is …Art! In fact, in my childcare center, the most popular center is the Art Center.
At the Art Center, children can be creative with the paint and all the other materials that are provided. Moreover, providing children with a variety of art materials, encourages children to be creative and it also allows them to express their feelings.
Furthermore, art is a great form of therapy for kids. In fact, I strongly believe that this is why behavior therapist use art to discover what is going on inside of a child’s mind.
Check out some of the open-ended Creations that I have discovered at my childcare center.
Drawn by a School-Age Child
In fact, art in my facility is strictly open- ended and we focus on the process not the end product. More over, art is an everyday experience in my childcare center and the art experiences includes free choice opportunities for children to do the following:
- Paint
- Cut paper
- Color with crayons or colored pencils
- Draw pictures
- Glue/Paste
- Exploring play doh or modeling clay
- Experimenting with scraps of materials
I want to challenge you to visit the art center/area in your program. Observe the materials that that are provided to encourage the children to be creative, because Kids love Art!
Need ideas for organizing an Art Center? Check out the photos below:
What has been your observation of children and Art in your program? What would a child find in your art center/areas? Feel free to share your thoughts.
Kids Love to be,
Where they can be Creative;
Art Encourages Creativity!
Shiketa Morgan
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Kids Love Sensory Play
“Creating a Child Care Business That Kids Love”
As I wrap up the theme on creating a childcare business that kids love, I thought it was appropriate to end the theme with ” Kids Love Sensory Play.” I chose sensory play, because it is open- ended and there is no right or wrong way to explore sensory materials.
In fact, kids love to play in anything that is messy! Today I want to inspire you to plan and encourage more sensory activities in your childcare program.
According to Elaine Lambe (Educational Consultant), “Sensory play is currently seen as one of the key areas of play for babies and young children and a crucial part of their development. Sensory play is play that involves the use of one or more of the five senses, touch, sight, smell, taste and hearing. Our senses are our guide through the world around us and for babies and young children they provide endless opportunity for fascinating discovery.”
Today I want to share with you five sensory play ideas that kids really Love:
Exploring Shaving Cream “It’s messy, yet it is fun! Kids can make shapes or even practice writing their name in the shaving cream.
Source: Cultivated Lives
Colored Rice Explorations. This is a Pot of Gold Activity planned back in 2011. The teacher dyed the rice yellow, by soaking the rice in yellow food coloring and by adding a small amount of alcohol. Then she let the rice air dry over night. The kids love to feel, scoop, sift, explore the color and measure the rice.
Exploring Cornmeal. The first time that I saw kids playing in cornmeal was in my child development laboratory Class back in 2002. I didn’t think it was quite educational back then, however, now we love to add cornmeal to the sensory tables to encourage the children to; explore the cornmeal by feeling, measuring, scooping, writing in the cornmeal and whatever they discover that they can do with the cornmeal that will enhance their play.
Source: Not Just Cute
Colored Water. This is a great way to teach children their colors or to spice up the water play!
Source: Not Just Cute
Styrofoam Fun! Don’t throw away anymore Styrofoam, save it for sensory play!
Source:Loving and Learning in Pre-K
I realize that many of the sensory activities above may not be appropriate for children under the age of three, however, it is appropriate for a toddler to explore water play or to play with edible home-made playdoh or with pudding.
Whatever sensory activities that you decide to incorporate into your program, I know that the kids will enjoy it because Kids Love Sensory Play! Feel free to share sensory activities that you offer in your program and share your thoughts about this blog post.
With Your Business in Mind,
Shiketa Morgan
Resource Links
http://childcareandbeyond.tripod.com/sensoryplay.html
Many family home providers are getting empowered in the Family Home Child Care Empowerment club! Take a sneak peek at the first 5 weeks of the club by subscribing to the 5-day mini course “It’s Free”! http://childcarebusinessowner.us2.list-manage.com/subscribe?u=237d43de3475bcab0f4337852&id=e56603be8d
It’s Time To Prepare Your Child Care Business For Spring
Created by Vennie Randolph.
I love it when the month of March comes, because I get to add a touch of spring to my childcare facility!
Today I want to share some spring decor ideas with you and some tips on where you can find some great spring related ideas; so that you are inspired to add a touch of spring to your home daycare or childcare center.
Many of my spring decor ideas are discovered when I am out shopping. This past weekend, I was out shopping at Trader Joes and I discovered some gorgeous yellow day lilies. Seeing the day lilies, gave me an idea to add some fresh lilies on the sign-in table. Adding a vase with fresh Spring flowers is a great way to welcome parents into your program.
I Love to browse home and garden magazines to get spring decor ideas. In fact, I make a trip to the local library to purchase old home & garden magazines to spark my creative juices.
Also, I love to stop by the local Nursery to get spring ideas and one of the things that I notice in the home & garden department at the local nursery are “Spring Flags.”
So, every spring, I display a Welcoming Spring flag near the rear entrance of the building; where parents enter the building. (Check out the flag below)
Spring is also a great time to paint your walls. In the Spring of 2011, developed a desire to liven up the walls at my center with a fresh coat of paint. So, my husband and I went to the local home depot to pick out a paint color and I settled on an earth friendly green. Check out the picture that inspired my new wall color and then my new wall color.
This is the picture that inspired my wall color choice.
Learning Days Child Care Center, Spring 2011. We've added new shelving and more plants since this photo.
I hope that you have been inspired to prepare your childcare business for spring! Where do you get your spring ideas from? Feel free to share your spring decor ideas.
I look forward to sharing more spring ideas with you in upcoming post, be sure to follow my post/ childcare business tips & discussion on Facebook and Twitter.
Shiketa
Feel free to submit your spring photos to childcarenews@aol.com. (Your facility will be given credit for the photos)
Add A Touch of Magic With “Bob Beetle Book Bug”
I have read many books to children, however, Bob Beetle Book Bug is a great book that inspires kids to read. I received my copy of the book at my childcare center on Monday March 5, 2012.
The Preschool teachers really loved the Book! I could have just settled for their feedback, however, I had to read the book for myself.
So, I decided to read the book to a group of school-age kids in a very animated voice. The kids were really engaged in the story and it was a fun and magical story time.
In fact, the kids really enjoyed saying ” Bob Beetle Book Bug ” (really fast three times) at the beginning of the book.
Moreover, the book is filled with humor, magical words and it really encourages kids to read books. Also, the last page of the book, includes a promise to read:
” I Promise to read with my family a little everyday.
I promise to take time to read before I start to play.
I promise not to munch on the pages of the book,
but I will pass it on to my friends so they can take a look.”
I want to inspire you to add this book to your reading center(s) and Connect with the Author, Phyllis Griggs on Facebook and Follow Bob Beetle Book Bug on Facebook.
Order Your Book Today! and Introduce the little ones in your Child Care Business to the Magical World of Books….
With Reading in Mind,
Shiketa
It is Vital That You Master Your Money in Your Child Care Business
I was inspired to write this blog post after processing my monthly payroll and paying the bills in my childcare business. As I wrote checks to pay my business bills, I realized the importance of cash flow. In fact, when you have cash in your business, you are able to buy the things that your business needs and pay your business debts.
Several weeks prior to paying my bills, I realized that I did not finish processing my food program claim, because I was so focused on getting my center re-accredited.
When I realized that I had not finished processing my food program claim, it was too late to receive my payment in the month of February. Unfortunately, I discovered that my payment was going to be late and this was going to cause a delay in my accounts payable.
Several weeks later, I received that my food program payment and I was so glad that I had funds to pay bills. Furthermore, I realized that when there is a cash flow problem, this will cause you to be late paying your bills and it also prevents you from buying what you need for your business.
To assure that you have a constant cash flow in your childcare business I want to suggest the following to you:
- Create a monthly budget for your business
- Only buy what you need for your business
- Never stop marketing your business
- When you are not able to pay your bills, make payment arrangements with your creditors to protect your credit.
- Be diligent about collecting payments from parents. I suggest collecting payments 2-4 weeks in advance.
- Process Subsidized Childcare Payments & Food program claims by the due dates
- Always be on the look out for business grants
- When parents do not pay on time, charge a late fee.
This is just a small list of ways to master your money, because after all…your money is the lifeline of your business. Moreover, when there is no money; there is no Cash flow!
Do you want to become a master of your money? I invite you to join the Child Care Business Owner Mastermind Group, where you will learn Business Management skills such as “ How to Master Your Money,” learn leadership skills and learn how to think like a Millionaire.
Are you a home daycare provider? Feel free to check out the Family Home Child Care Business Empowerment Club, where you will be empowered and inspired to manage your money and build a quality in-home preschool.
With Your Business in Mind,
Shiketa
I look forward to your feedback about this post……
Inspiration To Start a Garden
I believe that children should be in an environment that is filled with natures beauty!
A week prior to writing this blog post, I post the following status on the Child Care Business Owner Facebook page: Every Child Care Business Needs a Garden. Do you have a garden?
Cheryl Frankowski Owner of Bizzy Bee’s Family Child Care replied to the post and I invited Cheryl to submit photos of her garden. Check out the photos of Cheryl’s indoor and outdoors garden at her home daycare.
Cheryl Frankowski wrote:
“Oh my butterflies – how inspirational this little project has been! Short story – took a garden with kids class, a friend brought milkweed and the rest is history. I planted milkweed about 4 years ago and finally found monarch caterpillars this past summer. We hatched 6 over all – 1 male, 5 females. The last one died coming out of its chrysalis. We pick a stem off and bring them in the house to watch. They eat and eat and eat!! and they poop. a lot. They are in the kitchen window by the sink so dish washing is a lot more enjoyable! These are random pictures from last year.
The one up side down is going into his J and will soon go into his chrysalis. Very fascinating to observe the whole cycle. Truly I feel like I have witnessed a gift from God. The black chrysalis – about a day before they hatch, their jade green chrysalis turns transparent and the black is the butterfly. Up close you can see the orange as well. The butterfly has just come out and his wings are still crinkly. He will pump all the bodily fluid into his wings to straighten them out.
The last pic is of a chrysalis that was on the ceiling. The caterpillars wander around til they find their place. And once they have attached their button you have to let them finish out where they are or it will kill them to move it.”
Cheryl Frankowski wrote:
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How to Turn Your Staff Meetings Into a Sharing, Mentoring and Training Session
As I finished up my weekly staff meeting today, I realized how far I have come with leading staff meetings. My first staff meeting was held in the spring of 2003 and I thought the purpose of a staff meeting was to address issues. In fact, I hated conducting staff meetings. Moreover, I thought that staff meetings was a great time vent to my staff and listen to their complaints.
I also believe that my prior experience with staff meetings was simply a reflection of my leadership at that time and an indication that I needed more training in the area of conducting staff meetings.
Over the years, I have become quite effective at conducting staff meetings. In fact, I am a firm believer that practice makes perfect!
However, today I want to encourage you to not discuss problems at your staff meetings. Instead of discussing problems at your meetings, turn your meetings into a training, sharing and mentoring session and discuss problems in a brief informal one-on-meeting meeting.
What happens when meetings are boring and problems are discussed at meetings…
It has been my experience that when you discuss problems at meeting, the staff members are up tight and afraid to share their point of view. Also, they may not give as much feedback. Moreover, I have noticed that at staff meetings where problems are discussed, the body language includes, “the crossed arm posture.” Moreover, when arms are crossed, this usually means that your employees are feeling vulnerable and they are closed for argument.
Meetings take away valuable planning time from teachers and not to speak of how valuable your time is as a business owner. So…..why waste 30 minutes on discussing problems; when you can easily correct problems with mentoring, training and sharing at weekly or monthly staff meetings.
What happens when meetings are all about Sharing..Mentoring and Training...
Recently I decided to start my meetings with a thought-provoking question; to encourage the teachers to talk about quality care practices and how to solve problems in their classroom. Then I invite the teachers to give one another feedback. Furthermore, after the teachers coach one another through problem solving in their classrooms, then I offer suggestions and resources.
When it is my turn to offer suggestions, I notice that the teachers are writing while I am talking and this really encourages me to share more; and then I give a challenge for the week.
For example, a week before writing this blog post, we discussed “Excellence” at a weekly staff meeting. I asked the teachers this question; When you go to a restaurant or a hotel, what type of service do you expect and they replied..“Excellent Service.”
This is where I gave them the challenge to evaluate their classrooms with excellence and whatever was not excellent, to change it and make improvements accordingly. A week later, we discussed excellence and the teachers decided to focus on having a more organized classroom and they were really detailed about how they wanted things to look.
You may have noticed that I did not give orders, I simply posed a challenge and they delivered more than I could have imagined. I realized that the teachers were finally looking forward to meetings, when they all gather in our meeting circle without me and my Assistant Director, reminded me of the meeting today!
Today I want to share with you 5 easy ways to spice of your staff meetings and make your meetings more enjoyable:
- Start your meeting with a question or a joke to loosen up the atmosphere
- Invite the teachers to share a funny observation from their classroom
- Be open and allow the teachers to challenge you or offer their suggestions
- Have one main focus for the meeting and discuss no more than 5 points
- Smile and always bring a resource or tips to the meeting that your teachers can use in their classroom
I encourage you to implement the tips above in your next staff meeting and be sure to share your feedback with me. What are your thoughts about this post?
For more business management tips, I want to invite you to join me in the Child Care Business Owner Mastermind eClub!
Shiketa
Welcome Parents and Visitors With Shamrocks
I am always in search of festive ideas to liven up my sign in area. In fact, I want parents to be excited to sign their children into my program and to periodcially be welcomed with seasonal or holiday related decor.
So, I decided to add a touch of shamrocks to the sign in table. I found these cute little stickers at the local grocery store along with some St. Patrick’s day buttons for my staff.
How do you liven up your sign-in area? If you have some really festive sharock ideas, feel free to post your pictures on the Child Care Business Owner Facbeook Page!
With Your Business in Mind,
Shiketa Morgan
For Weekly Child Care Business News/Insight, be sure to subscribe to my weekly e-Newsletter!
Natural Spring Cleaning Dos and Don’ts For Your Child Care Business
Source:Divine Health by Dr. Don Colbert
One of my goals as a Child Care Business Owner is to maintain a healthy and safe environment for young children. This is one of the reasons why I follow weekly health tips by Dr. Don Colbert.
Also, spring is a great time to review your health & safety practices or better yet….incorporate some new spring cleaning strategies.
Today I am going to share with you five of the Dos and Don’t of Spring Cleaning tips that has been recommended by Dr. Colbert in his article “Spring Cleaning Dos and Don’ts You Might Not Know.”
Do Clean your air with House Plants. *** Be sure to check to see that plants are not poisonous.
Don’t- use synthetic lawn care chemicals. The toxins in synthetic lawn care chemicals can make their way into your home daycare or center through the windows and through the soles of shoes.
Don’t Use Air Fresheners. The cleanest and safest odor is no odor at all.
Do reduce allergens. Switch to hard surface floors like tile and hardwood. Remove curtains and use easy-to-dust blinds for window coverings.
Don’t use conventional pesticides and herbicides in your garden. They leave toxic residues on your food, and dangerous chemicals from fertilizer can get soaked up into the food through the roots. Use natural ways to protect your garden from bugs.
Read Dr. Colbert’s entire article for more tips. Click here I would love to read your feedback about this post. What do you think about the spring cleaning dos and don’t in this post? Feel free to share your spring cleaning tips!
With Kids in Mind,
Shiketa
Quality Care is Hard Work
The picture that you see above, is a photo of my husband putting together a new playhouse for our playground. The day that I took this picture, we were working at the center on a Saturday morning, preparing for Re-Accreditation.
My facility has been Accredited by the Missouri Accreditation of program for Children and Youth since 2006 and we are in the process of being re-accredited. As I go through the accreditation process, I realize how much work is involved in providing quality childcare including;
- Evaluating Administrative practices
- Improving Health/Safety practices
- Improving the physical environment
- Improving the Curriculum
- Evaluating Parent connections and so much more!
On March 20, 2012, an Accreditation Validation review team stopped by my center to evaluate our quality care practices. Now……. you would think that after going through three accreditation observations in my center and one in my home daycare, that I would not be nervous.
On the day of the visit, I was so nervous to have strangers in my center evaluating every little detail of the program. Then I had to give myself a positive talk and remind myself that I am an Expert at Quality Care and I have nothing to worry about!
I also had to remind myself that I focus on quality care, because children deserve quality care and parents want quality care. Moreover, there are many definitions of what quality childcare is, however, the highest form of quality care is Accreditation.
I want to inspire you to seek Accreditation. If you cannot afford it, I am sure that there are some agencies in your area that would love to help pay for your Accreditation.
Quality Care is Hard work, however, when parents know that you provide quality care, they will choose you over other childcare programs. Furthermore…all the hard work of building a quality program is worth all the sweat and labor!
I want to invite you to check out my post on Accreditation and subscribe to my e Course, 7-steps to Quality Care.
With Quality Care in mind,
Shiketa
Sometimes You Have To Make the Best Out of Staffing Issues
Back in December 2011, my school age teacher (of 2 1/2 years of employment) decided to work closer to home and she gave me a 3-week resignation notice. I was quite disappointed, however, I understood why she needed to work closer to home.
The hunt was on for a new teacher! As I placed ads at the local college, on Craigslist, the Missouri Great Hires website and on our social media pages, I realized how tough it can be to find a quality School-age teacher.
In fact, it seems like when I need a preschool teacher, I get a flood of applicants. At least 2-3 days a week, I would get an applicant for the position, however, they were not the perfect match for the position.
As I write this post, I am still in search of a qualified and experienced school-age teacher. I have also decided to work with the youth in my After School program until the right teacher comes along.
I must say, that they are enjoying me, I am enjoying them and the parents love to see me in the classroom. I know that soon, my new teacher is coming and while I practice being patient, I am also mentoring and coaching my teachers as I work in the classroom in the afternoons.
Also, as I work in the classroom, I am thankful that I have youth development education and that I am able to step in when we are short staff. Moreover, decided to give myself a pay increase and pay extra on bills during this season.
I shared this post with you to encourage you to find the positive in staffing issues and use it as an opportunity to do something great for your program. Moreover, instead of getting frustrated because you have to hire someone else, embrace the staff that you have, try to have a positive mindset about it and keep in mind that…This too shall pass!
Since I have been in the classroom, my school-age program has improved, the community in the classroom is more caring, I have more blog post ideas and I feel that I have prepared a great place for my new teacher.
If you have a large center, you may not be able to teach in the classroom, however, I suggest that you have floaters to assure that you are well staffed to assure adequate child-to staff ratio. My center is licensed for 40 children with an over lap of 53 children and I can be counted in the ratio in the state of Missouri.
Moreover, one thing that I have learned during this process is to never stop interviewing or advertising that you are hiring. There many applicants that would love to work in your program, however, it takes time to find the perfect person for your facility.
Keep this in mind when looking for new staff: Be Fast to Fire and Slow to Hire!
I look forward to your thoughts about this post. Feel free to share your feedback or post your comment.
Shiketa
Be sure to subscribe to my weekly e-newsletter for weekly business tips! and check out my blog post on School-Age Care.
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Save Money When You Buy Milk From Sams Club
Source: Sams Club
Today I made my weekly visit to Sam’s Club to buy food service and housekeeping supplies. After picking up my supplies, I decided to buy some milk while I was at Sam’s Club. I was quite surprised to discover that a Gallon of 1% milk was only $2.66 a Gallon!!!
Not only was I surprised to see the price of milk at $2.66/gallon, but I was so excited to see that I no longer will have to spend $3.87/gallon on milk at the local grocery store. In fact, now that I will buy my milk from Sams Club, I will save my business over $479/year!
If you are a Licensed Child Care Provider, you are required by your local Bureau of Childcare to serve milk to the children enrolled in your program for Breakfast and Lunch. Furthermore, buying your milk from Sam’s Club can really cut the amount of money that you are spending on milk.
I look forward to your thoughts about this blog post and I hope that you have been inspired to save your business some money by shopping at Sams Club!
Money Saved= More Money in Your budget to spend!!
With Your Child Care Business in Mind,
Shiketa Morgan
For my Weekly Business Tips, Be sure to subscribe to my weekly Child Care Business e-Newsletter. Want Healthier menus? Check out the Healthy Child Care menus e-book.
Steps To Becoming An Earth Friendly Child Care Business
One of my goals for 2012 is to create an earth friendly program. When possible, we strive to reduce waste by using recycled materials for activities, adding plants throughout the building, so that the children are in an environment that is filled with the beauty of nature and to expose the children to a better quality of indoor air.
Also, I am researching all natural cleaning supplies to use in my facility; throughout the day we open the doors to allow fresh air to flow in the building, to prevent from turning on the Air Conditioner. The children must re-use their water drinking cups ( marked with their names) to use throughout the day when they get thirsty,to prevent waste in the classrooms.
This is just a small list of things that we are doing at my child care center to create an earth friendly program and I thought I would encourage you to join me on this journey to becoming an earth friendly childcare program.
According to the National Food Service Institute, Creating a healthy environment for children involves plenty of active play, rest, and of course, healthy meals. A healthy environment is also one that embraces good stewardship of the earth. By practicing and teaching green habits in your home or center, you will contribute to a healthier planet.
Are you ready to contribute to a healthier planet and create a healthier place for young children? The National Food Service Institute has great tips to empower you to take the necessary steps to moving toward and Creating an Earth friendly Child Care program, including:
- Ideas to serve less Process Foods
- How to use less water
- Tips for using light bulbs that use less energy
- How to combine shopping and errands into one trip to save energy
- The three “R’s”
Download the entire Business Practices Grab and Go Lesson Color it Green! Moving Toward an Earth-Friendly Child Care Environment Guide!
To An Earth Friendly Child Care Program,
Shiketa Morgan
Need ideas for Creating menus that include more Raw Fruits & Vegetables with less process foods? Check out the Healthy Child Care Menus e-Book.
Inspiration to Become an Earth Friendly Child Care Program
This video has inspired me to incorporate Eco-friendly practices in my facility. In fact, I have been inspired to add wicker baskets, incorporate more organic foods, reduce the amount of paper products that we use, use more recycled materials, add more items from nature and so much more.
After watching the video below, be sure to share your thoughts below. Check out the video.
What are your thoughts about the video? How has the video inspired you to become more earth friendly?
