Anyone not in the daycare business can’t grasp the concept that child care providers can sometimes feel a bit isolated; after all, they’re surrounded by people all day, even if they are young children. It can happen, though and in fact, it happens often. This is why networking is so important. Networking can do a lot more than allow providers the opportunity to chat with like-minded people. Referral agencies, associations and local chapters of national branches of various groups can help you grow your business, provide information that you might otherwise never know and of course, provide a bit of sanity among adults who “get it” after a long day of a dozen four -year olds with head colds.
Perhaps the most important reason for joining your local referral agency is due to the fact many parents will consult these agencies in search of the right child care facility. They know these agencies will not only be able to provide legitimate and safe facilities to bring their children, but they also know this is where they’ll discover those less than ideal businesses they should steer clear of. This makes your community’s referral agency an invaluable tool in your marketing efforts. There is a national agency, Child Care Resource and Referral, and you can visit the site at www.naccrra.org.
Inclusion on the roster is easy and you’ll want to provide at least the basic information, including:
o Years in business
o Hours of operation
o Phone number, address, etc. and a website if possible
o Your accounting methods – you can provide the Alpha Cares website address if you’re one of our customers and if not, you can visit the site and see for yourself the advantages we offer over other child care provider accounting software.
o The ages you accommodate – for instance, 6 weeks to 12 years
o Your child care provider’s licensing information
Of course, your local Better Business Bureau should be in your crosshairs, as well. Join the BBB and you will have a powerful advocate who will verify your credentials and serve as an excellent source of networking and marketing efforts.
Even if you have a waiting list of eager parents, keeping up with your networking efforts will keep you – and your 
business – in the loop for all the latest legalities in this industry. It can also provide countless opportunities to learn the latest “must haves” for playground equipment, new snacks on the market and all those other countless details that you work to ensure are perfect. Don’t forget to visit Alpha Cares – we offer the latest and most inclusive software for daycare providers on the market.
