A new daycare fills its first spots through the provider's personal network, local parent groups, pediatricians' offices, employers, churches and community centers, and searches on Google and state child care referral services. A website with tour booking and an honest description of the program turns interest into visits.
Outreach by partner
| Partner | Pitch | Follow-up |
|---|---|---|
| Child care resource and referral agency | List the program for referrals | Keep openings current |
| Pediatricians and OB offices | Flyer for expecting parents | Seasonal refresh |
| Employers nearby | Care close to work | HR contact |
| Churches and community centers | Bulletin listing | Event booth |
| Parent groups online | Open house invitation | Post updates |
Open house
An open house lets parents see the space, meet the provider and ask questions. Have the handbook, tuition sheet and waitlist form ready, and follow up within two days.
First ninety days
- List with the state referral service
- Book tours quickly
- Ask current families for referrals
- Keep the waitlist organized
Turning tours into enrollments
Parents often tour several programs before choosing, so the tour is the decision point. Schedule tours at times when the program is running normally, such as mid-morning, so parents see real activities. Walk them through a typical day, introduce teachers, explain safety practices such as sign-in and pickup authorization, and answer questions about naps, meals and communication. Give them the handbook and tuition sheet, and send a thank-you within a day with the waitlist link.
Track every tour and whether the family enrolled. If many families tour but do not enroll, ask a few why; often the answer is tuition timing, hours or a policy that could be clearer.
Mistakes when filling first spots
- Accepting children outside the ages you are set up for
- Overpromising start dates
- Not following up after tours
- No waitlist system
How first customers usually find this business
A daycare's first families often come from the provider's network and referral agencies; prompt tours and clear policies win enrollments.
One more thing to know
Follow up after every tour within a day.
Channels that work
- Local parent groups
- Employers nearby
- Open houses
- Referrals
Free tools
Common questions
How do parents find daycares?
Word of mouth, Google, referral agencies and state search tools.
Should I offer a discount?
Some offer a sibling discount; avoid deep discounts that do not cover costs.
How quickly should I respond to inquiries?
Within a day; parents are often contacting several programs.
Do open houses work?
Yes, especially for new programs.
Should I offer trial days?
Some programs offer a short transition period for new children; explain how it works and what it costs.
Should I list with referral agencies?
Yes; many families find care through them.
Should I post on community boards?
Yes, where allowed; include the tour link.
Should we hold a summer open house?
Yes; many families plan fall care in summer.
Sources
Sources checked October 6, 2026. Rules, fees and forms change; confirm details with the agency or provider before you act. This guide is general information, not legal, tax or insurance advice.
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