Let’s be real—parents walk in with eagle eyes. That mysterious stain on the rug? They’ll spot it. So, before the tour, give your space a solid once-over (or three). Wipe down surfaces, organize toys, freshen up the bathroom, and don’t forget the entryway—it’s your first hello.
Think cozy, welcoming, and lived-in (but not kidnado aftermath). A vase of flowers, soft lighting, maybe even some calm music playing low in the background—it all adds to the vibe.
You want parents to walk in and immediately think, “Ahhh, my child would be safe and happy here,” not “Oh no, my toddler would redecorate this place with crayons in five minutes.”
No need to go full power suit. Just aim for neat, approachable, and confident. Something you’d wear to a parent meeting—not yoga pants with mystery smudges, not your “cleaning day” tee that used to be white.
You don’t have to memorize a speech, but have a few key things you want to highlight:
Think of it like sharing your favorite dish—you’re just telling them why it’s amazing, not trying to impress a cooking judge.
You don’t need to march around like a museum guide, but a little flow helps. Start at the entrance, then move to learning areas, play spaces, nap zones, bathrooms, and end in your “talking spot” for Q&A.
This helps keep things organized and shows that you’re not just winging it—even if you totally are sometimes (we all do).
Have your parent packet ready. Tour-ready means:
Even if they don’t sign up that second, they’ll walk away with something that reminds them you were the one who had it all together.
Parents might ask about potty training, meal plans, what happens when kids bite each other—be ready. And if you don’t know an answer, it’s totally okay to say, “Great question, let me get back to you on that.”
Better that than scrambling and giving them the nap time schedule of a squirrel.
After the tour, shoot them a thank-you message or email. Keep it warm, not salesy. A simple, “It was so great meeting you and your little one! Let me know if you have any other questions—I’d love to have your family in our program,” works like magic.
Because people want to feel wanted—and not just for their deposit.
Once they leave and you’ve had your celebratory snack (you earned it), take a few minutes to think:
Use those notes to make the next one even smoother. Every tour is a chance to grow.
You don’t need to be perfect. Just be prepared, be present, and be real. Parents can spot a fake a mile away—but a provider who’s passionate, organized, and clearly loves what they do? That’s gold.