I am delighted to announce that New Dimensions Daycare is now officially in business. Counting back, I've just realised that I've been consulting on the project for nine months - although all the recent hard work has been down to our carefully chosen staff team. They've bonded well and have done a great job turning the new building into a welcoming nursery.
When preparing for the open days, we agreed it was important that all the rooms had a 'lived-in' look and felt as though children were already attending. Sometimes new settings can seem too clinical, with bare walls and paint fumes that suggest 'we're not quite ready'.
To avoid this, our team took time to lay out a range of activities. They strategically positioned cars and books on the carpet, set up easels and chalks, and recruited young nieces and nephews to create artwork to display. In the foyer, a bright welcome board was put up with smiley photos, and windows were opened wide to let in fresh air.
Just as we hoped, when the time came for the grand opening ceremony, many of our guests assumed children must already be settling in. The feedback was very positive. As well as prospective new parents, we invited neighbours and members of local church groups. We also felt it would be a nice gesture to invite other nursery owners and childminders registered in the area. This helps to establish good relationships, even if they're also competitors - and it's a great way to spread the word.
Rather than have someone dressed up as a cartoon character, or a famous face, the senior pastor of the church and mayor of the borough were asked to cut the ribbon on the day, with two children helping to count down to the big moment. Guests were then invited for a proper tour and chance to register for a place. Dominique, the manager, had a stack of brochures ready to sign up parents - and she was kept busy. Within a few weeks there are ten children scheduled to start, and I think that's an excellent result, given the time of year. Roll on September and a big marketing push to capitalise on the free entitlement grants!
So, nine months on - it's time to cut the cord and leave the proud owners, the Church of the God of Prophecy, to get on with things. But I shall be thinking up an excuse or two to pop back and see how they're going.
Derek Hayes is senior consultant/trainer at Childcare Consultancy. For more information e-mail info@childcareconsult.co.uk.
