The novel coronavirus pandemic has sparked a lot of questions and confusion among child care centers and parents. With recent school closings, many working moms and dads are searching for reliable child care taking health precautions at this time. Your current families may be worried about the impact the outbreak will have on your facility’s hours, as well as their own work schedules.
Things are changing rapidly with new governmental orders every day. As an essential business, it’s important that your child care center is transparent and upfront with parents about how you’re handling the situation. Whether you’re staying open or not, it’s a good idea to let concerned parents know what’s going on with your center during this uncertain time.
Here are some ways you can inform parents of the measures you’re taking to adapt to the changes:
How to Keep Parents Up to Date During COVID-19
Social Media
Social media is a great platform for sharing timely news and information with both current and potential families. Be sure to update all of your social accounts with your new hours and any other changes you’re making to your center to accommodate families during this time. If you’re in need of essential supplies, your social media community may be able to help out!
Google My Business
Google may be the first place parents check to find your daycare’s status during the pandemic, or to search for child care facilities that are currently open and accepting new children. Let moms and dads know how you’re adjusting your center’s services by updating your Google My Business profile with the COVID-19 update option.
Website
Spread the word about your response to the coronavirus on your website homepage! This way, when parents go to your website to check in with your center, they’ll be able to easily find out how your business is operating during this time.
Email Blast
Stay connected with your current families and keep them up to date during this rapidly changing situation with a prompt email blast. Be sure to include an email subject line that communicates urgency to encourage parents to read your important news.
Newsletter
A take-home paper or digital email newsletter ensures clear communication with the families you serve at your daycare. Inform your child care community of the steps your child care center is taking to ensure safety during the pandemic and the impact your adjustments might have on them.
