1. Stay calm and collect facts. Don’t react to rumors. Confirm whether your program or local partners have sent guidance.
2. Send a short parent message. Reassure families: operations continue for now and you’ll update them if anything changes.
3. Sample parent line: “We’re open and operating as usual for now. I’ll share updates if there are changes that affect care or payments.”
4. Tell your staff what you know. Let them know you’ll keep them updated and that you’re monitoring payments and attendance.
5. Check your immediate cash flow. Run a quick numbers check: payroll dates, rent, food bills due this week.

5. Identify at-risk families. Make a short list of families who work for federal agencies or rely on government paychecks/subsidies. Reach out privately to offer support or flexible payment options.
6. Confirm subsidy and food program status. Call or email your state/local child care office or CACFP contact to see if payments are expected on time. (Even when programs are funded, processing delays can happen.)
7. Build a 30-day buffer plan. Decide what you can delay (non-urgent purchases, equipment) and what you must pay on time (payroll, rent, utilities).
8. Set up a “what-if” tuition policy. Consider short grace periods or payment plans for families facing delayed paychecks. Put rules in writing so expectations are clear.

9. Limit out-of-pocket spending on programs that are reimbursed. If reimbursements (like CACFP) look delayed, pause large purchases tied to that funding.
10. Review staffing options calmly. If revenue drops, start with reduced hours or voluntary unpaid time off rather than immediate layoffs. Keep the conversation open with staff.
11. Tap local support networks. Contact your local childcare association, United Way, or faith-based partners — they sometimes have emergency funds or food assistance for families.
12. Document everything. Keep copies of communications, missed payments, and any official notices. This helps when reimbursements resume or for grant reporting.

13. Reassess revenue mix. Can you diversify income? Think small options: sliding-scale enrollments, short-term mini camps, sibling discounts that keep kids enrolled.
14. Build an emergency fund goal. Start small if needed: aim for even one month of operating costs over time.
15. Formalize emergency policies. Update parent handbooks with clear shutdown/subsidy-delay procedures so everyone knows what to expect next time.

Parent notice (short):
Subject: Update on Government Shutdown & Our Program
“We’re open for now. I know this news is stressful. If you or your household may be affected by delayed pay or benefits, please contact me privately so we can discuss a short-term plan. I’ll share updates as we get them.”

Staff note (short):
“Quick update: We’re monitoring the shutdown and checking on subsidy/reimbursement schedules. I’ll keep you posted daily. If you anticipate financial strain at home, please let me know so we can plan together.”

1. Send parent & staff messages.
2. Run a 30-day cash flow check.
3. Identify at-risk families.
4. Contact local subsidy/food program office.
5. Note next bill and payroll dates.

I know this stuff feels scary. The good news: most programs are not shut down immediately, and simple, early steps greatly reduce the stress if things do stretch out. As business owners, we can’t control politics, but we can control our response. Stay calm, communicate clearly, and take one practical step at a time — that’s how you keep your doors open and your business growing no matter what’s happening in Washington.