Greetings, dedicated educators, visionary owners, and insightful directors! In the enchanting realm of early childhood education, one topic reigns supreme: play. We engage in discussions with parents, underline its significance, and advocate for the value of play-based learning. But here's the question that fuels our passion: How do we, as educators, spark that essential curiosity in children, propelling them into the realm of imaginative play? Today, we embark on an exhilarating journey to unveil the enchanting art of nurturing curiosity through boundless exploration within your early childhood setting. As educators, we deeply comprehend that children's play acts as the heartbeat of their learning journey. However, have we taken a moment to reflect on the profound and harmonious connection between play and curiosity? These two entities aren't distant acquaintances; rather, they form a dynamic partnership that propels holistic development. But the real question is: How do we stoke curiosity through the avenue of play? At the threshold of each school year, we invest time in acquainting children with classroom rules and responsibilities, establishing the foundation for a conducive learning environment. Yet, there exists a delicate equilibrium to be struck between structure and play, between rules and curiosity. Picture a classroom that transforms into a bustling hub of exploration and learning. Instead of constraining play to specific corners, envision an environment where unexpected materials find their way into diverse learning centers. This vision involves granting children the liberty to wander, armed with materials, across different spaces. Better yet, plan areas where unexpected materials are present. Encourage children to document their own creativity and learning by providing writing materials in every learning center. Empowering children to employ materials in unanticipated ways cultivates a culture of unbridled exploration. As they venture beyond designated play areas, they forge novel connections, weave intricate narratives, and craft imaginative ideas. A simple dollhouse morphs into a bustling space station; building blocks become bridges to unexplored realms. This unscripted process sparks innovation, causing curiosity to bloom into ingenious thinking and extended learning. It's about embracing the spirited mess that accompanies explorative learning. From experimenting with watercolors at math stations to discovering shapes in the music corner, let play evolve naturally. Ready to embark on this electrifying journey? Here are some actionable tips to set your voyage in motion: Craft a Curious Haven: Design an environment that beckons curiosity. Strategically arrange materials, ensuring they're accessible and inviting in every corner of the room. Set Safe Exploration Rules: Celebrate the wanderlust of young minds while prioritizing safety... Encourage children to explore various areas while ensuring they transport, handle and use materials in a secure and safe manner. Safety is paramount, especially when liquids or fragile items are involved. Capture the Essence of Curiosity: Capture snapshots of children engrossed in their imaginative explorations. Have them articulate their experiences and discoveries, then proudly display these visual narratives, inviting the learning community and parents to bask in the vivacious curiosity at play. Welcome the Unexpected: Embrace the enchanting surprises emerging as children weave concepts, sculpting unique narratives that even your imagination might not have conjured. Cultivate a Cleanup Ethic: Transform cleanup into a communal venture. Establish routines where children collectively tidy up post-adventures. This not only fosters accountability but also guarantees a fresh canvas for future explorations. As you step into your classroom's vibrant embrace each day, remember your pivotal role in nurturing boundless curiosity within young learners. By embracing curiosity-driven play, you're sowing the seeds of exploration, innovation, and lifelong learning. So, spread your wings, explore every corner of your space, and witness curiosity blooming like a vibrant kaleidoscope of ideas. Through this awe-inspiring journey, you're not just fostering curiosity; you're nurturing a generation of bold thinkers and imaginative creators. With each playful interaction, you're leaving an indelible mark on their lives. Let's celebrate curiosity, empower play, and watch the enchanting magic unfurl!

Exit interviews are a valuable tool for understanding the reasons why employees are leaving your child care organization. Conducting these interviews in a thoughtful and results-oriented manner can provide actionable insights to improve your working environment and reduce staff turnover. Here's how to effectively conduct exit interviews for meaningful results: 1. Timing and Approach: Schedule the exit interview shortly before or after the employee's departure, ensuring it occurs while their experiences and reasons for leaving are fresh in their minds. Choose an approach that makes the departing employee feel comfortable. This can be done in person, over the phone, or through written surveys, depending on their preference. It’s worth mentioning that written surveys often don’t give us the full picture. You see, most employees don’t really have time or motivation to fill out these surveys. They might jot down a few quick answers, but it’s tough to get into the nitty-gritty details through checkboxes and comment boxes alone. To truly understand why someone is leaving and how we can improve, it often takes a face-to-face chat or a friendly phone call where they feel comfortable sharing their thoughts openly. 2. Prepare for the Interview: Review the departing employee's work history, performance evaluations, and any relevant feedback or incidents. This background information will help you ask specific and relevant questions during the interview. 3. Create a Safe and Non-Blame Environment: Ensure that the exit interview is a safe space where departing employees can openly and honestly share their thoughts and experiences without fear of retaliation or judgment. Assure them that their feedback will remain confidential. 4. Ask Open-Ended Questions: Encourage departing employees to share their experiences and reasons for leaving in their own words. Ask open-ended questions such as: "What factors contributed to your decision to leave?" "Were there specific challenges or concerns during your time here?" "What aspects of our childcare environment do you think we can improve?" "Is there anything that you found particularly rewarding about working here?" 5. Listen Actively: Pay close attention to what the departing employee is saying, and avoid interrupting or defending the organization during the interview. Let them express their thoughts fully. 6. Probe for Details: When necessary, ask follow-up questions to dig deeper into specific issues or concerns. For example, if they mention "communication problems," ask for examples or specifics to better understand the issue. 7. Take Comprehensive Notes: Document the conversation thoroughly, recording both the positive and negative feedback. This documentation will serve as a reference for identifying trends and areas for improvement. 8. The Only Reason is Money: When an employee cites monetary concerns as their primary reason for departure, it's essential to explore potential solutions. Are there opportunities for them to increase their income, perhaps through promotions or other job roles within the organization? Additionally, are there upcoming employee childcare discounts or benefits that could help them save on expenses? 9. Express Appreciation and Empathy: Thank departing employees for their contributions and express empathy for their decision to leave. Acknowledge their feedback and assure them that their input is valuable in improving the organization. 10. The Doors are Always Open If You Want To Return: Toward the end of the interview, extend a heartfelt invitation for them to return should circumstances change. Emphasize that the doors of your childcare center are always open. Just as life's journey can take unexpected turns, it can also circle back to familiar places. Assure them of your school's perpetual welcome, ready to embrace them whenever they may decide to rejoin the school community. This open-door policy symbolizes the enduring bonds and warmth that define your childcare environment. 11. Provide Closure and Next Steps: Before concluding the interview, discuss any outstanding matters, such as returning company property, final paychecks and how to get tax documents. Provide information on how the organization will address their feedback and any relevant changes or improvements. 12. Analyze Feedback and Take Action: After the exit interview, review the feedback received from departing employees. Look for recurring themes or issues that require attention. Collaborate with relevant departments or teams to develop action plans for addressing identified concerns. Prioritize changes that will have the most significant impact on retaining staff and improving the working environment. Communicate the results of exit interviews and the action plan to your current employees to demonstrate your commitment to their satisfaction and well-being. 13. Follow Up: Periodically follow up with current employees to inform them of the progress made based on feedback from exit interviews. This shows your dedication to continuous improvement. Exit interviews are an essential tool for retaining staff and enhancing your childcare working environment. When conducted with empathy, active listening, and a commitment to making meaningful changes, they can provide valuable insights that contribute to a more positive and supportive workplace culture.

Navigating Social Media, Fostering Community, and Cultivating Gratitude in the Childcare Field to Combat Loneliness. In the childcare profession, we frequently play multiple roles – from caregivers and educators to mentors. Amidst the fulfilling moments and heartwarming interactions, it's natural to occasionally glance at the highlight reels of others' lives on social media and wonder, "Is everyone else's life so amazing?" The Social Media Paradox: Social media has become an integral part of our lives, offering both inspiration and challenges. It's a platform where we celebrate achievements, connect with others, and stay informed. However, it can also cast a shadow of comparison, influencing our mindset and self-esteem. The seemingly perfect lives of others can leave us feeling less accomplished or content with our own experiences, even though they may be equally valuable. In an increasingly connected world, it may seem paradoxical that loneliness is on the rise. Yet, the reality is that the digital age, while fostering virtual connections, can sometimes leave us feeling more isolated than ever. And this sense of loneliness can touch every corner of our lives, including the vital realm of childcare. Childcare employees are the unsung heroes of our communities, dedicating themselves to the well-being and development of the next generation. However, this noble profession often comes with its unique set of challenges, including the risk of social isolation. In the childcare field, where our primary focus is nurturing and educating the next generation, the impact of social media can be profound. We're not immune to the allure of curated posts, stunning family photos, or the achievements of our peers in the industry. The Loneliness Epidemic: Loneliness is a universal experience, and it doesn't discriminate. Even those in nurturing roles, like childcare employees, can face feelings of isolation. Long hours, demanding schedules, and the emotionally draining nature of the job can sometimes lead to social disconnection. The Toll on Well-being: Loneliness isn't just an emotional challenge; it can take a toll on physical health and overall well-being. For childcare employees, who work tirelessly to create safe, supportive environments for children, battling loneliness is essential not only for their own sake but for the children they care for. Combating Loneliness in the Childcare Field: Embrace a Mindset Shift: Encourage a mindset shift within your childcare community. Remind employees that combating loneliness and nurturing well-being begins with each individual. Encourage a more open and supportive culture where sharing personal experiences, struggles, and triumphs is celebrated. By changing the way we think about and address loneliness, we can collectively create a more connected and vibrant environment for all. Fostering a Strong Childcare Family: To create a workplace culture that makes employees feel like part of a childcare family, it's essential to prioritize unity, empathy, and support. Encourage open communication, collaboration, and shared goals. Recognize and celebrate the unique contributions of each team member. Organize team-building activities and regular staff meetings to ensure everyone's voices are heard and valued. Build a Supportive Community: Encourage regular team meetings and opportunities for employees to connect. Creating a sense of belonging within the workplace can help combat loneliness. Organize themed potluck dinners where employees bring dishes from their cultural backgrounds. From homemade enchiladas to savory samosas, these events not only tickle the taste buds but also introduce everyone to the rich tapestry of flavors and traditions within your childcare family. Host "Crafting Workshops" where employees can explore their creative sides. From painting and pottery to DIY projects, these workshops offer a fun and therapeutic way to bond over shared artistic endeavors. Host a "Favorite Things" exchange, where employees bring in a small, cherished item and share its significance with their colleagues. It's a delightful way to reveal personal stories and connect on a deeper level. Mentorship Programs: Establish mentorship programs to foster connections between seasoned employees and newcomers. These relationships can offer guidance, support, and companionship. Recognizing and Rewarding Mentors: Mentors play a pivotal role in the growth and development of their colleagues. Recognizing their contributions through bonuses or incentives can be a way to express appreciation. However, fostering a mentorship culture that values knowledge sharing and personal growth is equally important. Encourage mentors to lead by example and inspire their peers. Establish an "Employee Appreciation Wall" where colleagues can leave notes of gratitude and encouragement for one another. This visual display of appreciation serves as a constant reminder that their work is valued and admired. Employee Well-being Initiatives: Promote self-care and well-being initiatives within your childcare facility. Encourage employees to take breaks, engage in stress-reduction practices, and prioritize their health. Implement "Wellness Challenges" where teams compete in activities like step counts, meditation minutes, or fitness goals. These challenges not only promote health but also encourage camaraderie, as teams cheer each other on to victory. Create a "Garden Therapy" initiative by transforming a corner of your childcare facility into a green oasis. Employees can tend to plants during breaks, fostering a sense of belonging while enjoying the calming effects of nature. Think seasonally and what to grow per season. Introduce a "Care Buddy Program" where employees are paired up to check in on each other's well-being. These buddy pairs provide mutual support, building a safety net of friendship and understanding. Encourage Social Engagement: Organize social activities outside of work hours to provide employees with opportunities to relax, socialize, and strengthen their bonds. From casual gatherings like picnics or game nights to community service activities, these events foster a sense of togetherness. As Halloween, Thanksgiving, and the winter season approach, consider a variety of activities to suit everyone's interests. Cultivating Gratitude: Gratitude is a powerful antidote to the comparison trap. Encourage employees to keep gratitude journals or engage in daily reflections. Recognizing and celebrating small wins and moments of joy can shift the focus from what's lacking to what's abundant in their lives. Celebrate Small Acts of Kindness: Recognize and celebrate small acts of kindness within your childcare family. Whether it's an employee going the extra mile to support a colleague or a thoughtful gesture toward a child, these moments bring joy and further strengthen the bonds among your dedicated employees. Open Lines of Communication: Create a safe space for employees to discuss their feelings of loneliness and seek support from supervisors or peers. The childcare field is a nurturing profession, but it's essential to remember that the caregivers need care too. Combating loneliness in the childcare industry is a collective effort that starts with building a supportive community, fostering connections, and prioritizing the well-being of every employee. By addressing loneliness, we ensure that the caregivers remain emotionally fulfilled and capable of providing the best possible care to the children they serve. In this shared journey, we build not only stronger bonds among our childcare professionals but also a brighter future for our children.

This week’s IntelliTip is here to make sure that you’re getting the most out of IntelliKid Systems! After your Onboarding and Training calls, be sure to update your phone number anywhere it is currently listed. This would include, but is definitely not limited to, your website, Facebook, Yelp, and Google Reviews. The IKS Enrollment Number redirects to your center’s phone number. While being logged into your IKS account, access more step-by-step information on phone settings within our Help Center here. Once your phone number is updated, leads will come into IKS via the Enrollment Number assigned to your center. If you hear the whisper message say “Incoming Lead,” be on your A-game— a new family is calling! And remember, our system will automatically record calls with new leads. Focus on the conversation at hand and less on writing down their information. Come back to gather their information and play the call recording once the call is over. Learn more about call recordings here.

Unlocking Convenience and Empowerment: Imagine a world where parents can effortlessly schedule tours of your childcare facility at their own convenience, day or night, without needing to make countless phone calls or send multiple emails. Self-scheduling tours offer precisely that. It's a game-changer in the world of childcare enrollments. Empowering Parents: Self-scheduling tours put the power in the hands of parents. They can choose a time that suits their schedule, ensuring they arrive in the best frame of mind to explore your facility. This level of convenience sends a powerful message: "We value your time, and we're here to make your life easier." Higher Conversion Rates: In the fast-paced world of childcare, speed is often of the essence. With self-scheduling, interested parents can book a tour when their interest is at its peak. The result? Higher conversion rates. More parents who experience your facility in a way that suits them are more likely to enroll their children. A Competitive Edge: By adopting self-scheduling tours, you set your childcare center apart from the competition. Parents are looking for innovation and convenience. Being a trendsetter in this area not only enhances your reputation but also makes you the go-to choice in your community. Data-Driven Insights: Self-scheduling also opens the door to valuable data insights. You can gather data on when parents are most interested in touring your facility, what aspects they are most curious about, and more. This information helps you tailor your offerings to meet the specific needs and interests of parents. Positive First Impressions: First impressions matter, and with self-scheduling, you set the stage for a positive experience from the very start. When parents find it easy to schedule a tour, they enter your facility with a positive mindset, eager to explore and learn more. This enthusiasm can significantly impact their decision to enroll. The Future of Childcare Enrollments: Self-scheduling tours aren't just a trend; they're the future of childcare enrollments. By embracing this innovation, you not only streamline the process but also ensure your childcare center remains relevant, efficient, and parent-focused in the years to come. It's time to make childcare enrollments smoother, more parent-friendly, and efficient. Self-scheduling tours can make this vision a reality and bring excitement back to the enrollment process. So, why wait? Get excited about the future and start offering self-scheduling tours at your childcare center today! If you would like to get more information or schedule a demo of IntelliKid Systems, click here!

Ideas to Make It Extra Special for Parents and Providers The holiday season is a truly magical time of the year, and nowhere is this enchantment more palpable than in childcare centers. It's a time when children's eyes sparkle with wonder, when the air is filled with the scent of freshly baked cookies, and when the spirit of giving and togetherness fills our hearts. In childcare, the holidays are even more special because they provide a unique opportunity to create memorable experiences for children while also thinking about innovative ways to support parents and boost your childcare business. In this blog post, we'll explore the specialness of holidays in childcare and share some extra-curricular ideas that can save parents time and energy while making extra money for childcare providers. Embracing the Magic of the Season Childcare centers are a hub of joy and learning throughout the year, but there's something extra enchanting about the holidays. Here are a few reasons why holidays in childcare are so special: Creating Lasting Memories: Holidays offer a chance to create magical memories for children. From decorating Christmas trees to crafting Hanukkah menorahs, these experiences will stay with them for years to come. Fostering a Sense of Community: The holidays bring people together, and childcare centers are no exception. They offer a space where diverse traditions and celebrations can be shared, fostering a sense of unity among children and their families. Learning through Fun: The holidays are an excellent opportunity for educational activities disguised as fun. Whether it's counting ornaments, learning about different cultures, or understanding the concept of giving, there are countless teaching moments. Extra-Curricular Ideas to Benefit All The holiday season is a remarkable time for children and can present unique and significant opportunities for childcare providers. Beyond being a time of joy, wonder, and celebration for the children under our care, it also offers childcare centers a valuable chance to explore innovative ways to support parents while simultaneously enhancing their business. Parents experience heightened demands on their time during this season, and childcare providers can offer solutions that not only save time but also generate additional value. It's a time for childcare providers to think creatively about how they can strengthen their role in supporting parents while further advancing their business. In this discussion, we'll explore several extra-curricular ideas that bring benefits to everyone involved – parents, children, and childcare providers alike. Holiday Workshops: Imagine the smiles on children's faces as they engage in holiday-themed workshops and craft sessions. These activities serve a dual purpose: they provide valuable learning experiences and create wonderful keepsakes for the kids to cherish. As a childcare provider, hosting these workshops not only enriches your curriculum but also offers parents a unique and convenient solution for holiday gifts. Parents will appreciate the thoughtfulness of handmade gifts, and you can modestly charge for these workshops, creating an additional revenue stream for your center. Extended Hours: The holiday season can be a whirlwind of activities for parents. With work deadlines, holiday shopping, and festive preparations, their schedules can become increasingly hectic. By offering extended childcare hours during this time, you become a lifesaver for busy parents, providing them with the valuable gift of time during this hectic season. While this thoughtful service can alleviate some of the stress associated with the holidays, it's important to consider staffing and licensing requirements carefully to ensure everything operates smoothly. Charging a fee for extended hours not only makes your services more accessible but also contributes to your center's financial sustainability. Parents’ Night Out: Parents deserve a break during the holiday rush, and you can provide just that. Organize a "Parents’ Night Out" event, where parents can drop off their kids for a few hours of supervised fun and entertainment. This not only grants parents precious time for holiday shopping or relaxation but also strengthens the bond between parents and your childcare center. Charge a reasonable fee for this service, and parents will gladly welcome the respite, while you benefit from increased revenue and goodwill. Holiday Meals and Treats: Holiday feasts are an integral part of the season. Offering special holiday meals and treats for the children in your care can be a tremendous relief for busy parents. Knowing that their children are well-fed during the holiday weeks, parents can cross one more item off their long to-do list. Plus, this extra service can provide an additional source of income for your childcare business. Gift-Wrapping Service: One of the most time-consuming tasks during the holidays is gift wrapping. Why not offer a gift-wrapping service to parents? You can organize gift-wrapping stations at your childcare center and charge a modest fee for this service. Parents will not only appreciate the convenience but also the beautifully wrapped presents that add to the holiday spirit. This idea offers a win-win scenario, as it saves parents time and energy and generates supplementary income for your center. Virtual Events: In an increasingly digital world, consider hosting virtual holiday events or sing-alongs for parents who may not be able to attend in person. Virtual events provide flexibility for parents who might have work commitments or live at a distance. You can charge a small fee for participation in these virtual gatherings, and it's a great way to enhance your service offerings during the holiday season. Personalize: Adding a personal touch to the holiday season is a wonderful way to capture the magic of this special time for children. You can achieve this by crafting personalized ornaments, frames, photos, and decorations. These creative ideas are not only easy for our dedicated staff but also allow us to preserve the unique essence of each child's experience. By snapping a photo or capturing a tiny handprint, our team infuses their creativity to transform these mementos into something truly special for parents. As we all know, children grow and change so quickly, and by featuring the children's photos taken at school and adding a date, we're able to create cherished keepsakes that parents will hold dear for years to come. It's a heartfelt way to celebrate each child's journey and the beautiful memories we create together during the holiday season. By exploring these extra-curricular ideas, childcare providers can create a win-win situation. Parents experience less stress and more convenience during the holidays, while childcare centers generate additional income. It's a true testament to the spirit of giving and community that defines this wonderful time of year. Holidays in childcare are a time of enchantment, learning, and community. They provide a unique opportunity to create special moments for children while thinking creatively about ways to support parents and boost your childcare business. By offering extra-curricular services and events during the holiday season, you can make a difference in the lives of children and parents alike while also creating a thriving childcare business. Embrace the magic of the holidays, and watch your childcare center shine brighter than ever before.

At your child care center, we understand that convenience is key for parents when it comes to submitting registration documents. That's why we've introduced IntelliForms, a user-friendly platform designed to streamline the document submission process. For your dedicated staff, ensuring that parents can navigate this system seamlessly is a top priority. In this blog, we'll break down the step-by-step instructions for staff to assist parents in submitting registration documents online with ease. Additionally, while being logged into your IKS account, access more step-by-step information regarding parents using IntelliForms within our Help Center collection here . Step 1: Getting Started When a parent is ready to complete a registration package, they'll start by clicking on the provided package URL. The first step involves entering essential information such as First Name, Last Name, Email, and Phone. After inputting these details, they will select "Start." Step 2: Authentication Code (If needed) If parents are submitting the registration on a different device than their email is on or wish to use your center's device, they can click on "Click here if your email is on a different device." An authentication code will be sent to their email or phone number, valid for 5 minutes. Entering the code on the registration page allows them to proceed with document submission. Step 3: Email Confirmation Parents will then receive an email containing a link to start filling out the registration documents. By clicking the provided button within the email, they will be directed to their online document package. When logged into IntelliForms and viewing the package, you will see when a parent has registered for a package and where they are in the submission process. The date and time the package was created is when the email with a button link to submit their package was sent to them. If they state they have not received the email, ask them to check their inbox and junk folder for this date and time. If they cannot locate the email, you can click the “Resend Link” and the email will be resent to them. Step 4: Document Submission Upon entering their package, parents will see a list of documents on the left-hand side that need to be submitted. Clicking on a document will initiate the filling-out process. Required fields are marked in red boxes, ensuring that no crucial information is missed. After completing a form, parents should click "Save" before moving on to the next form or file upload. For mobile users, tapping on the three lines in the top-left corner of the screen grants access to the document window. In this window they will see the “Save” button to save the completed document. Parents can save their progress on a document by clicking "Save" and return later to finish the document. Once all required fields are submitted correctly, the system will show a green checkmark next to the document. If they save the document and all required fields are not complete, they will see a red exclamation mark. Step 5: Submission Validation Once all the required documents/uploads are saved, and all the required fields are filled in, the "Submit" button will turn from gray to blue, indicating that the package is ready for submission. If the button remains gray, it signifies that something still needs completion. If the package includes a payment, they will need to complete the payment before the package will be submitted. When logged into IntelliForms and viewing the package you can see where the parent is in the submission process. When a parent has started filling out the package, you will see the time and date of when they started filling out their documents. Under “Documents” you will see either a gray, red or blue circle. Gray means the parent has not started filling in that document. The red circle means the parent has started filling out the document and has saved their progress but has not completed all required fields on the document. The blue circle means the document is filled in and successfully saved. With this comprehensive guide, staff can confidently navigate the IntelliForms platform and help parents with submissions for a seamless document submission experience. While the step-by-step instructions empower your staff to troubleshoot any potential issues, our dedicated Success Engineers are a chat away and ready to assist should additional support be required.

Keeping your current clients happy, involved and attending your childcare center is as important as initial enrollment efforts. Having great customer retention means that you can benefit long-term from the effort you put into marketing your business and focus your efforts on making a real difference for the kids in your care today. Effective customer retention means knowing what your customer wants and giving it to them – all the time! Here are some simple tips for customer retention: Build relationships with families! We’ve heard this over and over but the truth is that relationships are the foundation for a childcare facility. Relationships shape the way we see the world and affect how we perceive people, places and things. When we develop strong relationships with families, we strengthen the bond between the home and the school. Here are some tips to strengthen relationships: Celebrate everything! Birthdays, enrollment anniversaries, new siblings in a family, holidays, achievements and other family events in the lives of your children and staff. When you find a way to treat your families in a special way on noteworthy occasions, it shows that you care about them. When birthdays or enrollment anniversaries roll around, be sure to send a card, wish them well on your entryway bulletin board or whiteboard, share social posts celebrating your families, and/or mention them in your weekly/monthly newsletter. Invite families to participate! It is important to build a sense of community among the families in your child care program. Find ways to involve them in some of the happenings at your school. They could take part in planning activities, carrying out special projects or events, being on a parent board providing input on important decisions, or they simply could be invited to read stories to the class or attend a parent activity (such as a Mother’s Day tea or a family picnic). It’s easy to walk away from a program you feel no connection to. However, when your families feel like they are part of a school family, it’s much harder to walk away. Leverage Social Media. Use your social media platforms to connect with parents and families and establish a positive image for your center. Sharing upcoming events or new safety procedures can build trust with potential customers as they know your center is working to provide a high quality and safe learning environment for their kids. Taking advantage of social media is a great, easy and free way to help get the word out about your center and boost enrollment. You can’t over communicate. Many parents are busy and may not see posted information. Use all forms of communication everyday as much as possible. Make sure all the important news is shared through multiple channels to ensure that all your parents and followers see it. You and your team need to make sure you are consistently updating your parent app, sharing photos whenever you can, using social media to make announcements and share news, compiling a weekly or monthly e-newsletter, posting important announcements near the check-in station at your school….and more. Listen to Feedback. Listening to feedback and acting on it is a great opportunity to build rapport with parents and show them that their insights are valued. Centers can gather feedback from parents through a survey, or simply by asking them: “What can we do better?” Parents who feel like they have a say in their child’s care are more likely to stay a part of your child care community.

As administrators, our job is to create an atmosphere that promotes high staff morale and high staff performance. No matter how capable your staff is, when morale sags, so does performance. How can we generate a working environment that promotes high morale and high productivity? The first step is to realize that, as administrators and directors, your attitudes, actions and decisions affect each one of your staff members in a different manner, and not everyone needs to be supervised in the same way. Your management style should match the learning style of your employees. Most of your employees will fall into two categories: those requiring a participatory style of leadership, which allows them to be more autonomous, or those who require more direction from the administrator. It is important to know which category each one of your staff members falls into. The second step is to have realistic and clear-cut policies. Staff need to understand and be trained in the policies and procedures, but, also, understand what the consequences are for breaking policy. The third step is consistency and follow-through. Your staff will work harder for you if they feel they are getting fair and equal treatment. This will promote continuity and help boost morale among employees. Always do what you say you will do and follow through to check on progress, understanding and completion of each and every delegated task. You will help build morale by answering questions and responding to any strides your employee has made in the situation. The last step in promoting high morale is to provide constant and positive reinforcement. Positive reinforcement is an extremely effective tool in clarifying the goals of the project while giving specific acknowledgement for ongoing details of the project or task. Let your employees know where they stand. They will appreciate it. Verbal and written reinforcements are the most effective - there’s nothing nicer than hearing that you are doing a good job or receiving written praise. Give authentic praise immediately after an excellent performance and try to do that in front of others as it enhances the recognition. Administrators can’t give their employees everything they need all the time, but they can be aware of their needs and show they appreciate their hard work, dedication and professionalism. Administrators should strive to show their employees how important they are to the children, school, parents and, most of all, the employer. Gaining the respect and developing a team spirit will help keep employees in the right frame of mind leading to positive morale. On a day-to-day basis, be consistent, fair, caring, encouraging, recognizing, and trusting with your employees. Get to know your people, meet them where they are and be flexible. You can't buy loyalty, but you can earn it. If you want loyal employees, then treat your people well! Remember that most employees don’t leave or quit a job, they leave their direct supervisor. Provide an environment that promotes and retains your employees. A bad boss can take a good staff and destroy it, causing the best employees to flee and the remainder to lose all motivation. The key to retention is deeply rooted in engagement. If your employees feel a deep connection to your company, whether professionally or emotionally, it is less likely that they will be tempted to jump ship if a better offer arises.

Do you know who your ideal child care client is? You know, your dream parent or family. Have you ever thought about it? Who would be your perfect client? Well, today we are going to figure out just how to identify who that is and why it might be one of the most important things you know for your business. Gaining and maintaining your childcare enrollments starts with an understanding of what makes your childcare unique, different and special in your community. When you have a clear understanding of what you offer, you can begin to define your ideal family and parent. Think about what makes your childcare unique and special. Be passionate about your vision and school. Start with defining your “Why”. Why did you start your childcare? Tell your story. What niche were you wanting to fill? Define your mission statement. Reimagine it as the world changes. What are your core values? Describe your curriculum. How do you emphasize diversity and inclusion? How do you enhance children's lives? Remember that quality never goes out of style. Remember that cleanliness never goes out of style. You can never offend someone by being too organized, clean etc. Think about what specifics make you different from the childcare down the street? That being said, it can also be helpful to know what your weak points are or where your business can improve and change. Work on correcting your weaknesses but don’t let them hold you back. KNOW YOUR COMPETITION Once you know what your business is good at, it's time to put that up against the competition. Identify your direct competition. What do they offer? Who do they cater to? What are their price points? Where do they succeed? Where do they fail? This information can be a powerful thing. Knowing this information will allow you to see just where your business is positioned in the market. You may be able to cater your services, hours and rates more competitively than you have before. You may even find an underserved niche in the market that you can jump on. Who is your ideal client? Basically, all this research is designed to help you identify your ideal childcare client. Think of (or imagine) a favorite client of yours, past or present. Now, what made them a favorite? Most likely, it was a mutual respect and understanding of working together as allies for the children. They believed in and respected your policies and procedures. They understood your values and mission. They participated in the activities at the childcare center, even promoting your childcare center with their friends and colleagues. By identifying who your ideal childcare client is, you can create opportunities for your business, find opportunities to boost enrollment, better serve your clients and focus on the people who believe what you believe. When we match our services and goals with our customers' needs, trust emerges and we have identified our ideal client.

Efficiently managing a childcare center requires a well-organized and secure CRM platform. IntelliKid Systems offers a comprehensive solution, but to harness its full potential, it's crucial to understand and optimize the user permissions feature. By customizing permissions on a user-by-user basis, you can ensure that each team member has access to the specific features they need, enhancing productivity and safeguarding sensitive information. In this blog post, we will delve into the importance of setting up permissions and provide you with practical tips on how to do it effectively within IntelliKid Systems. Granting all permissions to every user may seem convenient, but it can lead to potential issues. Not everyone in your team requires access to every aspect of the CRM platform. By implementing individualized permissions, you can control the level of access each user has, maintaining data security and preventing accidental modifications or misuse. Customized permissions, also, allow team members to focus on their specific duties, streamlining workflows and increasing productivity. IntelliKid Systems provides a helpful "Quick User Permission" guide that suggests permissions based on potential scenarios, such as daily user, marketing, management, and administrator. While these serve as useful starting points, it's important to tailor permissions to match the specific roles and responsibilities within your center. This customization ensures that each user has access to the necessary tools while minimizing distractions or potential errors caused by irrelevant features. Access account permission details and a how-to video within our Help Center here (while being logged into your IKS account). In IntelliKid Systems, adjusting user permissions is straightforward. Follow these steps: a. Accessing Account Details: Start by locating the desired account in the Accounts list. Click on "Details" to access the account's specific information. b. Editing Permissions: Within the Permissions section, you'll find categories that can be expanded to reveal a list of permissions. To modify a user's permissions, click on "Edit" within the Permissions section. c. General Permissions: The Account Permissions page consists of two sections: General Permissions and Website Permissions. General Permissions control access to the portal, app, Lead Management System (LMS) and Employee Management System (EMS). Here, you can manage settings related to General Settings, Emails, Facebook Messages, Marketing Automation, and Campaigns. d. Website Permissions: The Website Permissions section allows you to control access to specific areas of the website. To enable or disable a permission, simply toggle the switch accordingly. The selection will be automatically updated and saved within the user's settings. To optimize your permission settings in IntelliKid Systems, consider the following best practices: Regularly Review and Update Permissions: As roles and responsibilities change within your center, make it a habit to review and update user permissions. This ensures that team members have the necessary access while maintaining data security. Tailor Permissions to Specific Locations: For centers with multiple locations, customize permissions based on assigned locations. This approach prevents unnecessary access to leads or information from other locations. Collaboration and Communication: When adjusting permissions, collaborate with team members and seek their input. Open communication allows you to understand their needs and ensure they have the appropriate permissions to perform their tasks effectively. Ongoing Training and Support: In addition to customizing user permissions, providing ongoing training and support is essential for maximizing the benefits of IntelliKid Systems. We understand that mastering a CRM platform can take time, and that's why we offer a variety of resources to assist you. Help Center Articles: Our comprehensive Help Center is packed with articles, tutorials, and guides to help you navigate through different features and functionalities of IntelliKid Systems. It's a valuable knowledge base that can provide you with step-by-step instructions, best practices, and troubleshooting tips. Chat Support: We believe in providing immediate assistance whenever you need it. That's why we've made it incredibly easy to reach out to our support team. Simply click on the chat button located in the bottom right-hand corner of the screen when you are logged in. This will connect you with one of our knowledgeable support agents who will be happy to assist you in real-time. Whether you have questions about user permissions or any other aspect of IntelliKid Systems, our team is always just a click away. By combining the resources available in the Help Center with our responsive chat support, you have access to the guidance you need to make the most of IntelliKid Systems. We are committed to ensuring that you feel supported throughout your journey of using our CRM platform. Customizing user permissions in IntelliKid Systems empowers you to tailor access levels according to each team member's role and responsibilities. This ensures proper data security, and that your staff can only access areas of the system that are relevant to their daily work. Remember to provide ongoing training and support to your team, leveraging the resources available in our Help Center and reaching out to our chat support for immediate assistance. We are dedicated to your success and are here to support you every step of the way. Embrace the power of customized user permissions and unlock the full potential of IntelliKid Systems for your childcare center. If you have any further questions or need assistance, please don't hesitate to contact our support team. We are here to help. While being logged into your IKS account, access account permission details and a how-to video within our Help Center here.

While being logged into your IKS account, access details on syncing your calendar within our Help Center here. In today's fast-paced world, efficiency and organization are key to managing a successful child care center. One area where time and scheduling management can greatly impact your productivity is in the coordination of tours and appointments. At IntelliKid Systems, we understand the importance of seamless scheduling, which is why we offer the option to synchronize your Google or Outlook calendars with our scheduler. In this blog post, we will explore the benefits of this integration and how it can enhance your daily operations. By synchronizing your Google or Outlook calendars with our scheduler, you can ensure that your scheduled tours are seamlessly displayed on your school's calendar for your administrative team. This integration eliminates the need for manual entry or switching between different platforms, saving you time and reducing the risk of double bookings or scheduling conflicts. With the tours appearing directly on your calendar, you and your staff can easily visualize your daily schedule and better prepare for each tour, ensuring a smooth and professional experience for your prospective families. To further enhance your scheduling capabilities, IntelliKid Systems offers the option to enable the "Unavailable Times from Connected Calendar" feature. This powerful setting allows your scheduler to view your connected Google or Outlook calendar and automatically block off any times you have marked as busy. For example, if you have a day dedicated to parent-teacher conferences or staff meetings, marking it as "busy" in your connected calendar will ensure that these times are not displayed as available for tour bookings. This feature provides tremendous convenience and time-saving benefits. Instead of manually blocking off dates and times on your scheduler, you can rely on your existing calendar events to automatically update your availability. It streamlines your scheduling process and ensures that you never miss important events or accidentally schedule tours during busy periods. Synchronizing your calendar with the IntelliKid scheduler not only enhances your scheduling accuracy but also saves you valuable time. With the integration in place, you eliminate the need for manual data entry, reducing the risk of errors and saving you from the tedious task of duplicating information across different platforms. Your calendar and scheduler are seamlessly connected, ensuring that any changes or updates made in one system are reflected in the other, in real-time. Furthermore, the automatic blocking of busy times from your connected calendar saves you precious minutes that can be better spent on other important tasks. This feature eliminates the need for constant monitoring of your calendar and manually adjusting your availability. You can focus on providing exceptional care and support to your existing families while effortlessly managing your tour schedule. To get started, follow these simple steps: Access Location Settings: Navigate to the Menu and select "Settings." From there, click on "Locations" and choose the specific location you want to sync your calendar with. Scheduling / Calendar Settings: Scroll down until you reach the "Scheduling / Calendar Settings" section. Click the down arrow to expand the options. Grant Calendar Access: Follow the instructions provided to grant IntelliKid Systems access to your calendar. This step ensures seamless communication between your tour scheduler and your Google or Outlook calendar. Select Your Calendar: Once access is granted, choose the calendar you want to sync with IntelliKid Systems. This allows all scheduled tours and related events to be displayed on your chosen calendar. Sync Lead Scheduled Dates (Optional): You will also find a checkbox that allows you to sync your already scheduled lead dates to your Google Calendar. If you wish to enable this feature, simply check the box. Save Your Selections: After making your desired selections, click the "Save" button to save your calendar preferences. To further optimize your calendar synchronization, we recommend adding the "Unavailable Times" setting. This feature prevents tour availability from being displayed during specific events or busy periods on your calendar. To enable this setting, follow these additional steps: Add Unavailable Times: In the "Unavailable Times" section of the settings, click the "+ Add New" button. Save and Edit: After adding the unavailable times, click "Save" to confirm your selection. To make any adjustments or modifications, click the pencil icon to edit. Should you wish to remove an entry, simply click the trash can icon. With your calendar now connected, you will enjoy a seamless integration between your IntelliKid Systems tour scheduler and your Google or Outlook calendar. All your scheduled tours will be automatically reflected in your external calendar, providing a comprehensive overview of your appointments and events. Please note that each location can only have one calendar linked to it. This ensures accuracy and avoids any potential conflicts that may arise from multiple calendar sources. By syncing your calendar with IntelliKid Systems, you unlock the power of streamlined organization and increased efficiency. Say goodbye to manual data entry and enjoy the convenience of having all your appointments and events in one centralized location. We hope this guide has been helpful in setting up your calendar synchronization. Should you encounter any difficulties or have further questions, our dedicated support team is always available to assist you.