Navigating enrollment conversations can feel overwhelming when you're balancing systems, team responsibilities, and a constant flow of parent inquiries. Our recent IKS Academy webinar focused on providing a clearer path forward that strengthens relationships, reduces repetitive work, and builds confidence throughout every lead’s journey.  The webinar was led by Nikkie Handy, a seasoned Franchise Business Coach with more than 25 years of experience across nearly every role in Early Childhood Care and Education. Drawing on her expertise in child development, operations, data-driven decision-making, and customer experience, Nikkie offered a wide-lens perspective on what high-quality communication looks like inside the IntelliKid Systems platform.  She encouraged teams to zoom out, understand the true purpose behind their workflows, and elevate everyday interactions into meaningful, relationship-driven conversations. Bringing It All Together Winning enrollments is not about chasing numbers; it is about nurturing a community through every conversation.  Nikkie encouraged teams to reflect on two key questions:  Where is our team operating today? Where do we want to be?  When communication flows, connection grows, and teams that use IKS with intention and curiosity build relationships that extend far beyond a tour or enrollment decision.  We are grateful for the insight, clarity, and practical strategies Nikkie Handy shared in this session, and for the continued dedication of our IKS community as we grow together! Watch the full webinar replay here . Want to see how easy lead management can be with IntelliKid Systems? Jump into your self-guided demo today!

Enrollment is the number one driver of revenue in every early childhood program, but many schools unknowingly lose hundreds of thousands of dollars each year simply by missing opportunities on the phone. In our recent IKS Academy webinar with Chelsea Reue, a Child Care Sales Specialist, licensed real estate agent, and host of The Business of Preschool Podcast , we explored how strengthening your phone practices can transform your school’s financial health, boost family trust, and help you serve more children with confidence. Known for blending financial expertise with compassionate guidance, Chelsea brought real-world strategies that make enrollment conversations both effective and natural. This session broke down the real impact of capturing opportunity, the psychology of today’s parent callers, and the practical systems that turn each inquiry into a warm, meaningful connection. Here’s What We Covered The true cost of missed enrollment opportunities  The critical role of the phone in shaping first impressions and standing out from the competition What today’s parents are really looking for during inquiry calls  How phone scripts create consistency and confidence while guiding teams toward successful enrollment conversations Final Thoughts Your phone practices have the power to transform your school both financially and culturally. When your team approaches every call with clarity, professionalism, and genuine care, enrollment grows, trust strengthens, and families feel confident choosing your program. Every call is an opportunity. With the right systems, language, and mindset, you can reclaim those opportunities and create lasting transformation for your school. A special thank-you to Chelsea Reue for empowering our IKS Academy community with such meaningful insights! Watch the full webinar replay here . Want to see how easy lead management can be with IntelliKid Systems? Jump into your self-guided demo today!

Employee turnover can often feel like an inevitable part of running a child care program, but it does not have to be. With the right systems in place, child care leaders can confidently attract, select, develop, and retain team members who strengthen their culture rather than drain it. In our recent IKS Academy webinar with Tameenah Adams, a Certified Human Resources Professional, John Maxwell Certified Coach, founder of ChildcareHR, and experienced child care entrepreneur with more than 25 years of expertise, we explored the full lifecycle of hiring and retention. Drawing on her deep background in HR, leadership development, and building successful child care teams, Tameenah guided us through how a strong and intentional selection process can dramatically reduce turnover. The session delivered practical, actionable steps leaders can implement right away to create a more stable, engaged, and accountable team. Here’s What We Covered How to build a full-system approach to reduce turnover. How to strengthen the selection and interview process. How to identify the right candidates and avoid red flags. How to set clear expectations and reduce turnover costs. Final Thoughts Reducing turnover is not about luck; it is about systems. When leaders build strong, intentional processes across recruiting, selection, onboarding, retention, and off-boarding, they create workplaces where staff feel valued, supported, and equipped to succeed. By hiring for character, communicating openly, and building relationships from the very first interaction, leaders can dramatically increase stability and create a school culture where both children and staff flourish. We are grateful for the incredible engagement and insights shared during this session with our IKS Academy community! Watch the full webinar replay here . Want to see how easy lead management can be with IntelliKid Systems? Jump into your self-guided demo today!

Running digital ads can feel overwhelming: balancing budgets, targeting, creatives, and lead follow-up. At our recent “Are You Ready for Google Ads?”  webinar, we welcomed Gwendolyn Guarino , a career digital ads marketer at Rose Marketing Solutions . With over 15 years of experience in the Google Ads and Facebook Ads platforms, Gwen shared some valuable insights to help child care providers succeed with digital advertising. Here’s what we covered: Why Ads Fail Many child care centers run ads but struggle to see real results. Gwen walked us through the most common pitfalls: Weak landing pages – Sending traffic to a homepage instead of a purpose-built page confuses parents and lowers ad quality. Slow follow-up  – Leads are lost if calls and forms aren’t answered quickly. Wrong audience targeting  – Ads must be precise to reach the right parents. Poor creatives – Low-quality photos and videos don’t stop the scroll. Short-term thinking – Ads are a long-term game, not a quick fix. The Five Pillars of Readiness To avoid wasted ad spend and set campaigns up for success, Gwen introduced the five pillars every center should have in place before running ads: 1. Websites & Landing Pages ·   Mobile-friendly and fast-loading (80%+ of traffic is mobile). ·   Clear CTAs above the fold like “Schedule a Tour.” ·   Highlight your unique selling points (USPs). ·   Use plain program names (infant, preschool) and list starting tuition rates for qualified leads. 2. Lead Response System ·   Consider using a reliable, consistent CRM system to track every lead. ·   Respond to lead forms within two hours. ·   Answer phone calls before the third ring. 3. Enrollment Goals ·   Know your lead sources: Google = high intent but low volume; Meta = lower intent but higher volume. ·   Target specific age groups and parent personas. ·   Avoid broad “advertise to everyone” campaigns. 4. Creative Assets ·   Real, authentic photos and videos. ·   High-quality visuals that compete with other content in parents’ feeds. 5. Budget & Timeline ·   Google Ads: $1,000–$1,200/month, with at least a 90-day test period. ·   Facebook/Meta Ads: $500+/month, tailored to targeted promos. ·   Benchmark cost per lead (CPL): $70–$90. Final Thoughts Digital ads are not a “set it and forget it” solution. They require preparation, strategy, and patience. But with the five pillars in place, your school will be positioned to not just run ads, but to win with them. We truly appreciate the time and wisdom Gwendolyn Guarino shared with our IKS Academy attendees! Want to dive deeper? Watch the full webinar replay here . Want to see how easy lead management can be with IntelliKid Systems? Jump into your self-guided demo today!

Discover What’s New. Use What Works. Running a child care center means juggling people, processes, and priorities, often all before lunchtime. Staying ahead with the right tools isn’t just helpful…it’s essential. At our recent IKS Feature Fest 2025, we welcomed Kaia Gallop and Karen Blatter for a dynamic walkthrough of the year’s most impactful innovations. Drawing from their deep experience in product development, customer support, and real-world school operations, Kaia and Karen highlighted the tools that are truly making a difference for centers across the country. Their energy and practical guidance made this a standout session for any childcare professional ready to work smarter, not harder. Here’s What We Covered Call AI  automatically captures call summaries and profile details so staff can stay focused on families instead of manual work.  Custom Reporting  gives centers full flexibility to track only the metrics that matter without unnecessary clutter. IntelliForms Upgrades  streamline paperwork with one-off package sending, required public fields, automated workflows, and fewer administrative bottlenecks. Roles & Permissions Enhancements  make it easier to control what staff can view, send, and edit, creating more clarity and reducing cleanup. Final Thoughts Efficiency isn’t about doing more; it’s about doing what works. With the right systems in place, childcare professionals can shift their focus from constant task management to confident, purposeful leadership. If you’re ready to streamline your workflows and amplify your impact, these tools are designed to help you get there with clarity and ease. We’re thankful to Kaia and Karen for offering such meaningful, actionable insights to our IKS Academy attendees! Watch the full webinar replay here . Want to see how easy lead management can be with IntelliKid Systems? Jump into your self-guided demo today!

First impressions shape everything, especially in childcare, where families walk in with a picture already in mind of what they expect. During our recent webinar, we explored how to transform those expectations into powerful “WOW” moments that leave families feeling seen, valued, and excited to join your community. We were joined by Kate Woodward Young and Carrie Casey, nationally recognized early childhood trainers, keynote speakers, and business strategists with more than 32 years of experience each in childcare leadership, training, and business development. As Master Trainers registered in multiple states and co-hosts of the internationally ranked Childcare Conversations  podcast, Kate and Carrie brought deep real-world expertise and infectious energy to our session. Together, we unpacked how intentional design, genuine connection, and consistent communication can turn everyday interactions into magical moments and equip leaders with practical tools they can implement immediately. Here’s What We Covered Creating a WOW first impression for families visiting your program. Understanding the power of personalized communication in building trust and connection. Exploring why consistency is essential in childcare environments. Implementing strategies for building loyalty and creating lifelong fans of your program. Final Thoughts Every family who enters your program is a guest, and your opportunity to create a WOW moment begins the moment they walk through the door. By designing intentional first impressions, personalizing every touchpoint, and staying consistent in your care and communication, you lay the foundation for loyal families who feel connected and appreciated. We appreciate the valuable perspectives and enthusiasm shared today and look forward to watching you create meaningful moments for your families!  Watch the full webinar replay here . Want to see how easy lead management can be with IntelliKid Systems? Jump into your self-guided demo today!

Motivating today’s workforce remains one of the most significant challenges school leaders face. This core issue took center stage during our 50th IntelliKid Systems Academy webinar, where nationally recognized early childhood leader Vernon Mason Jr., M.Ed., presented “I Just Want Them to Do Their Job: Accountability Without Frustration.”  Vernon explored how true accountability can shift from feeling like harassment to becoming a catalyst for growth, motivation, and stronger relationships across your team. With more than 30 years in the field, 10 years as a multi-site owner, and a reputation for humor, heart, and hands-on strategies, Vernon returned to our virtual stage to help leaders rethink how they inspire, engage, and support their teams. His message was clear: Accountability should never resemble harassment. When approached the right way, it builds pride, fosters growth, and strengthens school culture. The webinar highlighted the power of teacher buy-in, emphasizing that people support what they help create and that early input builds ownership across sites and teams. Vernon encouraged leaders to replace “How do I make them do their job?” with questions that inspire, motivate, and equip today’s workforce, who respond to purpose rather than command-and-control.  Vernon Mason delivered wisdom, warmth, and strategies that school leaders can implement immediately to reduce frustration and elevate performance. We are grateful for the expertise, humor, and heart he shared with our IntelliKid Systems Academy community! Watch the full webinar replay here . Want to see how easy lead management can be with IntelliKid Systems? Jump into your self-guided demo today!

Playful leadership can feel elusive as you balance expectations, team culture, systems, and the daily fires that come with running a school. At our recent Playful Leadership  webinar, we welcomed Rachel Supalla, M.Ed., a renowned Early Childhood Business Expert, consultant, trainer, author, and multi-site child care owner with more than 25 years of experience. Rachel launched Discovery KidZone in 2009 and has since expanded it into 10 successful locations across Montana and Utah, earning numerous awards including Innovative Business of the Year and Best Daycare and Preschool in Helena.  Known for her brain-based creative teaching, playful leadership development, and her signature Practically Perfect Performance™ course, Rachel brought her deep expertise to our session with inspiring energy. Drawing from her journey as an educator, entrepreneur, and the driving force behind Vision Tree Leadership, she shared powerful insights to help child care leaders rediscover their purpose, empower their teams, and lead with clarity and joy. Here’s what we covered: What playful leadership means and why reconnecting with your “why” matters How purpose and values guide your team and protect your culture Celebrating team strengths and using them to set aligned goals Turning mistakes into learning moments with a “fail forward” mindset Empowering your team so you can scale without burning out Final Thoughts Playful leadership is about being grounded, intentional, and willing to lead with both structure and joy. When leaders honor their purpose, celebrate strengths, and build systems that support their teams, they create schools where children and staff flourish. We are grateful for the energy, wisdom, and inspiration Rachel Supalla shared with our IKS Academy community! Watch the full webinar replay here . Want to see how easy lead management can be with IntelliKid Systems? Jump into your self-guided demo today!

Navigating tough leadership moments can feel overwhelming: balancing communication, resilience, staff development, and those hard conversations you’d rather avoid. At our recent webinar Feedback Without Fear: Coaching Teachers Through Behavior Breakthroughs & Personal Growth , we welcomed Dr. Teri DeLucca, founder of Impact Early Education, who specializes in helping child care leaders grow thriving, emotionally intelligent teams. With years of experience training directors and teachers in communication, coaching, and resilience-building strategies, our speaker shared powerful insights to help child care leaders strengthen their culture and guide their teams with confidence. Here’s what we covered: Why leaders struggle with tough conversations, accountability, and burnout, and how avoidance weakens a center over time Resilience as a skill built through communication and adaptability How active listening, emotional validation, and collaborative communication strengthen team culture Coaching as collaboration rather than correction How clear and compassionate leadership strengthens the entire school community A huge thank you to Dr. Teri DeLucca for sharing her insight with the IKS Academy community! Her guidance on communication, resilience, and collaborative coaching has equipped childcare leaders with the confidence to navigate tough conversations, support their teachers more effectively, and build stronger, more connected school cultures. Watch the full webinar replay here . Want to see how easy lead management can be with IntelliKid Systems? Jump into your self-guided demo today!

We all remember how the pandemic made virtual tours a necessity. While we’re fully back to in-person visits now, the skills we developed during that time still have a place. Virtual tours remain a fantastic option for families who can’t make it to your center in person — and continuing to offer them shows that your center is flexible, accommodating, and tech-savvy. The Value of Offering Virtual Tours It’s a bit like having dressing rooms in a clothing store: when people have the chance to try something on, they’re more likely to buy it. Similarly, when families can tour your center—whether in person or virtually—they’re more likely to enroll. Offering a virtual tour doesn’t replace the value of an in-person visit, but it provides an accessible option for families who might be relocating, juggling tight schedules, or exploring centers from afar. When other centers say, “Sorry, we don’t offer that,” you stand out as the one that says, “We’ll make it work.” What I Mean by a Virtual Tour When I talk about virtual tours, I don’t mean sending a pre-recorded video — which, by the way, is a great resource you can still offer to families! What I mean is a live, interactive tour done virtually. Just like an in-person visit, but instead held over Zoom, Google Meet, or another video platform. It’s a real-time experience where families can ask questions, you can respond on the spot, and you’re able to build a human connection that just isn’t possible with a recording. That personal interaction is what makes a virtual tour so powerful — even when it’s happening through a screen. Practical Tips for a Smooth Virtual Tour Here are some best practices that will help your tour feel just as warm and polished as the real thing: Use a mobile device.  A tablet or smartphone lets you move easily throughout the building. Walk slowly and smoothly.  Think of it like walking down the aisle at a wedding — it might feel slower than normal, but it’s much more comfortable for the viewer on the other end. Check your Wi-Fi.  Do a practice run to identify any weak spots in your building where the signal may cut out. Check your background.  Be aware of what’s behind you at all times. Avoid capturing sensitive areas, messy spots, or anything that could compromise the privacy of students, staff, or visiting parents. Loop in your staff.  Let your teachers and team members know when you’re doing a virtual tour so they can greet the family with a friendly smile and wave. It’s a small touch that makes a big difference. Notify the classroom teacher.  If you’re entering a specific classroom, give the teacher a heads-up so they feel prepared, not surprised. Practice Makes Perfect Before you conduct your first real virtual tour, do a practice run. Have a friend or colleague join the call from outside the building and walk them through the center like you would with a prospective family. Then ask: Was the camera movement smooth? Was the audio clear? Were there any distractions in the background? Did the tour feel welcoming and professional? Getting real-time feedback will help you feel more confident and make your virtual tours even stronger. A Note for IntelliKid Systems Users (and those considering it) If you’re already using IntelliKid Systems, you have these tools at your fingertips. With our Zoom and Google Meet integrations, setting up a virtual tour is as simple as clicking a button. Here are some easy guides from our IKS Help Center for guidance on connecting Zoom  or integrating your Google Calendar . And for those not yet using IntelliKid Systems, feel free to schedule a demo  to explore how we can support your virtual tours, and so much more. IntelliKid offers a full suite of tools to streamline your enrollment process and help your center grow. A Personal Note: Why I’m Passionate About Virtual Tours I’ve worn many hats in the world of early childhood education, and one of my favorite things has always been giving tours to new families. I love showing off the space, sharing what makes the program special, and helping families feel confident in their decision. When the world shifted and virtual tours became the norm, I didn’t have a perfect script or a polished method. I figured it out as I went, made mistakes, and learned from them. Now, I’m excited to share what I’ve learned with you — so you don’t have to start from scratch. With just a little preparation and practice, you can offer a virtual experience that’s warm, inviting, and just as effective as being there in person. Experience the benefits of IntelliKid Systems at your own pace. See for yourself—click below to start your self-guided demo .

A feedback questionnaire from IntelliKid Systems designed to evaluate virtual tour practice sessions, focusing on video and audio quality, tour flow, staff presentation, and overall impression to help improve the virtual tour experience.

A quick checklist from IntelliKid Systems to help you prepare for live virtual tours, covering key steps such as device setup, platform login, lead review, classroom coordination, and presentation tips to ensure a smooth and professional experience.