Tips On Daycare Interview Preparation With A New Family

As a daycare provider preparation for a daycare interview is crucial. You want to make the best impression possible during an interview with a parent, right? It’s one of the most important parts of running a daycare business, and usually first impressions do count.

There may have been times where you may have felt you haven’t had enough preparation h or even nervous. These quick tips will not only show you ways of preparation for a daycare interview with a parent, but also give the best possible impression of your center.

When To Schedule An Interview

  • During Nap time.
  • After Hours.
  • The Weekend.

Over the years, i’ve found that the best time to schedule an interview is either during nap time or after hours. If you schedule the interview while you’re supposed to be watching the kids, you will not be able to give your undivided attention to the interview.

If you prefer the parent to see the children at the facility, nap time is probably the best. But, scheduling an interview after hours is always the most calm and gives you time to focus completely on the interview. Scheduling an interview during the weekend is another great time because you have more time for preparation, plus the parents aren’t just getting off work.

Some Items To Prepare

  • A copy of your daycare contract.
  • Have your license plainly number visible.
  • Prepare 4 references (2 from current parents and 2 from past parents).
  • A daily sample menu plan.
  • A daily activity sheet.

Preparation of these items is key to the interview going smoothly, also they should answer any basic questions parents should have. When giving references, make sure to give the name of the parent and their phone number.

Here is where you can download a sample daycare contract.

First Impressions Count

Another key element to preparation for your daycare interview is to make sure your facility is clean. First impressions are really important during the interview process, so spend quite a bit of time tidying up and organizing things. Make sure you don’t use overwhelming smells either, some parents can be turned off by an overwhelming perfume-y aerosol.

If you have animals, make sure you let the parent know before the interview (they may have allergies.) Right before the interview starts, it usually helps to put the animals in the other room for the short duration of the interview, but make it known that you have animals (once again, allergies purposes for the child as well.)

Tips On Finishing The Interview

One of the most important things about the interview process is to make sure you are not too pushy. Don’t pressure the parents into giving you a deposit, and let them call the shots. A follow up call is okay, but we recommend letting the parents call you first.

Honesty is another very important aspect, running an licensed business, honesty should be your first priority. Answer any questions the parents may have, and do so in the most honest way possible.

Doing interviews with parents can be a little nerve wracking, but we hope these pointers will help with preparation next time you’re feeling a little overwhelmed before your next interview. Remember, be honest, you can never have too much preparation, make the parents feel comfortable, and you should have no problem keep those daycare positions filled.