✅ Retaining Families - Tips & Recommendations

Today’s Issue: Kermit’s Big Speech, We Love the Dodo Bird, Vendor Sponsor, Interviewing Like a Boss!, Retention Tips & ECE News = 1 cup of coffee.

Muppets Inspiring the Next Gen: “It’s Not Easy Being Green.” We are all kids at heart, and when it’s time to go into the “real world,” why not be sent off with words of inspiration from the most famous Muppet of all! That’s right! The University of Maryland chose Kermit the Frog to perform its commencement speech to send off the new grads into Corporate America. But why Kermit? Well, the story goes that Jim Henson, the famous creator of the Muppets, came up with Kermit while he was a student at the university. We guess he didn’t need to use his degree in Home Economics…

Poll Results!

Our readers have spoken and definitely prefer the quirky Dodo bird to be brought back instead of powerful prehistoric beasts and Vegas stars. Check out the results! 🦤

Vendor Sponsor: Reflection Sciences

Did you you know that executive functioning skills begin developing as early as 24 months?! This is when children start following two-step instructions ("Pick up the toy and put it in the box") and demonstrate early self-control by resisting impulses (e.g., not touching fragile objects). These skills—including working memory, focus, and mental flexibility—help toddlers manage emotions, solve problems, and adapt to routines.

That’s why our partner, Reflection Sciences, is focused on building these foundational skills starting at an early age.

Want to learn more? Feel free to reach out to Reflection Sciences by clicking the logo below! Their team is on standby to help with any questions!

Interviewing to Be the World’s Best Boss

By Nikkie Handy

Historically speaking, the interview process was a one-sided game. The interviewer held all the power—able to say yes or no, offer great pay or withhold opportunity. But in today’s labor market, you may have noticed the shift. Employers need the right people in the right seats now more than ever—and locking in high performers has become unexpectedly tricky.

So here’s the flip: when that top candidate walks through the door (or logs onto Zoom), you’re not just interviewing them—they’re interviewing you. If you want to secure great talent, you need to nail your half of the interview, too. Because, my friends, you’re interviewing to be the world’s best boss.

Continue Reading Here for Interviewing Strategies: Blog Post

🙌🏻 How to Improve Family Retention Rates

Achieving full enrollment is a major milestone for any childcare center, but the real key to long-term success is family retention. Keeping current families happy and engaged isn’t just good for your bottom line—it builds a stronger, more vibrant community and sets your center apart from the competition. In this week’s issue, we are focusing on the secret that drives long term success.

Why Family Retention Matters

1. Stability for Children and Staff

Children thrive on consistency. When families stay, kids build lasting relationships with caregivers and peers, which supports healthy development and a sense of security.

2. Financial Health

Retaining families reduces the time and resources spent on marketing and filling open spots. The cost to recruit a new family is often much higher than the cost to keep an existing one.

3. Positive Reputation and Referrals

Happy families are your best ambassadors! They’re more likely to refer friends, leave positive reviews, and participate in your community, all of which drive future enrollment.

4. Stronger Community

Long-term families help create a welcoming, supportive environment. This sense of community is a powerful differentiator for your center.

Key Family Retention Strategies

Here are some tips and industry recommendations on steps you can take to up those retention rates! 😎

1. Build Strong Relationships from Day One

• Personalize the onboarding experience for each family. Assign a staff member as their point of contact, check in regularly during the first few weeks, and make sure they feel welcomed and informed. This initial connection is CRITICAL!

2. Communicate Consistently and Transparently

• Use newsletters, daily reports, apps, or emails to keep families updated on their child’s progress, upcoming events, and center news. Transparent communication builds trust.

3. Deliver Exceptional Parent Experiences

• Host regular family events, workshops, or parent-teacher conferences to foster connection.

4. Gather and Act on Feedback

• Regularly survey families about their experiences and suggestions. Show that you value their input by acting on feedback and communicating any changes you make as a result.

5. Recognize and Celebrate Families

• Celebrate birthdays, milestones, and family achievements. Acknowledge anniversaries with your center or special contributions to your community.

6. Foster a Sense of Belonging

• Create opportunities for families to connect with each other, such as parent groups, family nights, or volunteer opportunities.

7. Offer Value Beyond Childcare

• Provide resources on parenting, child development, and local family-friendly activities. Position your center as a trusted partner in the parenting journey.

The Bottom Line

Happy families stay longer, refer more, and help your center flourish. Make retention your secret to long-term success!

The Internet is a Playground:

🗓️ On this Day in History: In 1978, the famous Blues Brothers, made their SNL debut, ushering in many classic and famous acts and songs. 🕶️

🐣 That’s a Giant Egg: Do you like chocolate? Do you like eggs? If yes and yes, then you might be excited by the 71 lbs Cadbury Egg released last week.

🤖 Tired of Alexa’s Voice?!: Us too! Like nails on a chalkboard. It looks like Amazon heard and is introducing a new AI voice, Nova Sonic to help update the dated Alexa.

🐘 Elephant Parents: This crazy video shows how parent elephants took care of their young during an earthquake at the San Diego Zoo.

YOUR VOICE COUNTS

Is there a topic you want more info on or want to share a funny story? Then let us know! Shoot us a quick email at [email protected]. This newsletter is for you, and well, you should have a say, don't’ you think?