COVID-19 both put the brakes on many children’s lives and created a world of ever-expanding change. The last two years have been overwhelming for everyone, but children have fewer tools to help them make sense of everything.

Over half of childcare providers reported losing money by staying open during the pandemic. Just under half reported taking on debt using a personal credit card to pay for supplies and other necessities. 

Many parents struggle to pay for childcare. It has long been a cliche that parents need childcare so they can work. Yet, a substantial part of earnings is spent on that very childcare — up to 10 percent or more of the average parent's household income. 

Parents are trusting you with a precious family member who will be going through many milestones and changes that the parents won't see. They want to know that you are ready to take care of everything and able to help them relive some of those experiences.

Amidst all the holiday art projects and class parties, you need to take some time to prepare your childcare center for the end of the year. As a business owner, you are responsible for more than your basic income tax preparation. Several areas are requiring your attention right about now.

Let's dive in.

While parents have always been partners in their children’s education, this year has required working together with educators more than ever before. Children who face online learning still need plenty of engagement from the adults around them to receive the full value of school lessons.

The pandemic hit hard and fast, but as a small business owner and expert childcare provider, you need to lead through this crisis. While the world didn’t quite tilt on its axis, everyone is still scrambling to get their feet back under them.

Leading your childcare center through a crisis isn’t easy, but running a business and taking care of children isn’t easy either. You’ve got this. 

Here are some tips and tools to help you along on your leadership journey.

COVID-19 has caused widespread closures of many businesses, including childcare, summer camps, and afterschool care. Communicating with families is crucial for maintaining relationships and ensuring everyone is receiving accurate information about hours of operation, length of the closure, and how they can receive future communications. 

Federal funding is a major resource for afterschool programs in the United States. One of the most extensive programs, the 21st Century Community Learning Centers (CCLC) initiative, has been under fire in recent years by an administration intent on cutting educational funding programs. 

While federal funding isn’t the only resource for afterschool grants, it has the broadest impact. Many communities rely on it, especially in financially disadvantaged areas. Both rural and urban youth populations need a safe place to be in the afterschool hours. Research shows these programs decrease crime in the area as well as improve student achievement.

The Christmas holidays aren't the only thing to think about this time of year if you are a business owner. It's also time to close the business books and get ready for the New Year. Most of what you need to do is financial in nature.