Another school year is approaching—and with it comes fresh opportunities to grow, improve, and inspire the little minds in your care. Whether you’re a preschool, daycare, or early learning center, preparing now for the 2025/2026 academic year can make all the difference in your success.
Here are key areas to focus on to ensure a smooth and impactful start to the new year:
1. Refresh and Align Your Curriculum
The early childhood education landscape is always evolving. New research, updated standards, and shifts in family expectations mean it’s important to:
- Review and update your lesson plans
- Add developmentally appropriate activities
- Incorporate STEAM learning, emotional literacy, and cultural diversity
- Personalize learning goals based on age group and individual needs
💡 Pro Tip: Use tools like Bounce’s Curriculum & Lesson Planning Module to simplify daily activity planning, track outcomes, and keep staff aligned.
2. Give Your Classrooms a Fresh Start
A clean, welcoming, and stimulating environment can help children transition smoothly into the new year. Start by:
- Replacing old or broken furniture and supplies
- Creating cozy reading nooks and sensory stations
- Refreshing wall decorations and activity centers
- Restocking essentials like art supplies, books, puzzles, and soft toys
✅ A bright, well-organized space is not just beautiful—it also improves focus and behavior.
3. Boost Enrollement with Smart Marketing
Back-to-school season is a prime time for parent decision-making. Don’t miss the chance to fill every open spot.
- Update your website with your 2025/2026 calendar, tuition plans, and program details
- Share parent testimonials and classroom highlights on social media
- Run early bird enrollment campaigns and referral discounts
- Host open houses or family meet-and-greet events
- Partner with local businesses or events to increase your visibility
📊 According to NAEYC, word-of-mouth and local visibility are top sources for new enrollments—so let your happy families be your ambassadors!
4. Streamline Operations (So You Can Focus on Kids)
Center directors and staff wear too many hats. Technology can take some of that weight off. With a platform like Bounce, you can manage:
- Online enrollment & waitlists
- Automated billing & payment reminders
- Attendance & roll calls
- Real-time updates, photos, and daily reports for parents
- Staff communication & scheduling
- Student records—all in one place
🕒 Centers that use Bounce report up to 40% less time spent on admin tasks.
5. Invest in Staff Training and Recruitment
Your team is the heart of your center. Help them feel confident, prepared, and supported going into the new school year.
- Host pre-service training on classroom management, safety, behavior support, and curriculum updates
- Provide opportunities for professional development throughout the year
- Hire in advance and build a list of vetted substitute teachers
- Create welcome kits or team bonding activities to boost morale
✨ Centers that invest in staff development see better retention and happier classrooms.
6. Reconnect with Your Current Families
Don’t forget the families who already trust you. A new school year is the perfect time to re-engage and reinforce that trust.
- Send a warm back-to-school welcome message
- Host a “Family Appreciation” or orientation event
- Ask for feedback via a simple parent survey
- Highlight new improvements you’ve made based on past feedback
🏠 Happy families = better referrals = stronger enrollment.
Final Thought: Start Strong, Stay Ahead
The 2025/2026 school year can be your center’s best yet—with the right planning, tools, and communication.
Let Bounce help you launch the year with less stress and more confidence.
