How to Compete Against Child Care Centers

Visit the center and get copies of all written materials they distribute to parents: rate schedule, special services, description of benefits, etc.

Compare your program’s benefits with the center benefits. What does your program offer that the center does not?

Examples: 

Smaller group size for more individual attention for each child 

Home environment where children can play in familiar surroundings 

Home-cooked, individually prepared meals 

Healthier environment for children with less exposure to illness 

Years of experience by a consistent caregiver

You may want to offer services that are not offered by a center: longer hours, infant care, special needs care, etc.

Promote your program using your benefits: finder’s fee, door hangers, business flyers.  Talk to center director about ways you might be able to cooperate: back-up care, odd hour care, infant care, field trips, etc.

This handout was produced by Think Small (www.thinksmall.org).

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