Creative Ways to Grow Enrollment for Kid-Focused Businesses in the New Year

The start of a new year is an ideal moment for parents to seek new opportunities for their children. As a business owner dedicated to enhancing children's lives—be it through music lessons, swimming classes, art workshops, or recreational sports—this is your opportunity to align with that mindset. Let's explore practical strategies to increase your enrollment and make 2025 your most successful year yet.

Start with a New Year Promotion

Parents are always looking for deals. The New Year is your chance to attract them with irresistible offers. These deals encourage early registrations, making parents feel they're investing in their kids' future while getting a bargain. Use post-holiday enthusiasm to quickly boost enrollment.

Promotion Ideas:

• Early-Bird Discounts: Provide a 10-20% discount for those who sign up by a certain date.
• Refer-a-Friend Bonus: Offer a complimentary class or gift card for each successful referral.
• First-Class Free: Allow potential clients to try your service without risk to entice them with a complimentary pass

Integrate these promotions into your social media strategies. Share captivating visuals, countdowns, and client reviews to generate a sense of urgency.

If you are already are a Pike13 customer, you can set up coupons and discounts easily.  Complimentary passes are a breeze, too!  For more information on those, visit our Help Articles below:

• Creating Coupons with Pike13
• Discounts in Pike13
• Complimentary Passes

Leverage Social Media for Maxium Impact

Social media serves as an excellent platform for engaging with parents and highlighting the enjoyable, educational activities your business provides. Concentrate on using platforms such as Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok to connect with your intended audience.

Looking for some inspiration to kick things off? Here are a few ideas to spark your creativity:

• Behind-the-Scenes Footage: 

  Provide an in-depth look into the daily activities and routines at your facility, showcasing the vibrant atmosphere and the variety of programs available. Capture the energy and enthusiasm of both instructors and participants as they engage in learning and fun. Highlight the unique features of your facility, such as state-of-the-art equipment, welcoming spaces, and the supportive community that makes your programs special. Share stories of typical days, from the morning preparations to the exciting classes and workshops, giving potential clients a comprehensive view of what they can expect when they join your community.

• Student Highlights:

  Highlight and celebrate the achievements of children who have reached significant milestones in your program, such as mastering a new skill, completing a challenging project, or demonstrating exceptional progress. Share their inspiring stories and the hard work they put in to reach these goals, showcasing their dedication and the supportive environment your program provides. This not only motivates other participants but also reassures parents of the positive impact your program has on their children's development.

• Interactive Competitions: 

  Host interactive events like art contests and sports challenges to showcase children's creativity and skills. These activities build community and friendly competition. Offer prizes like free classes to motivate participation and highlight your services, potentially turning participants into long-term clients.

Motivate parents to share their children's involvement and tag your business. This organic exposure can help you reach other families within their networks.

Host New Year- Themed Open Houses or Events

Hosting events is an excellent way to highlight your services while providing unforgettable experiences for families. Think about organizing a New Year’s Open House featuring engaging activities for both children and parents.

A few ideas to get you started:

• Mini Class Sessions: 
  Organize engaging 20-minute trial lessons designed to provide children with an exciting glimpse into your program. These sessions are crafted to spark curiosity and enthusiasm, allowing kids to experience firsthand the unique offerings and teaching styles that set your program apart. By participating in these short, interactive classes, children can explore new interests and skills in a supportive environment, helping them and their parents make informed decisions about enrolling in your full program.
  
  
• Parent-Child Workshops:
  Host collaborative sessions that bring parents and children together to create memorable experiences and strengthen their bond. These workshops can include a variety of activities, such as crafting intricate art projects, composing simple yet beautiful music pieces, or even engaging in fun science experiments. By working side by side, parents and children not only enjoy quality time together but also develop new skills and a deeper appreciation for each other's creativity and talents. These workshops foster a sense of community and shared achievement, making them a valuable addition to your program offerings.
  
  
• New Year Kickoff Party: 
  Organize a lively and festive New Year Kickoff Party that features an array of fun games, delicious snacks, and exciting giveaways for all attendees. This event serves as a wonderful opportunity for families to come together and celebrate the start of a new year while exploring the various programs and services you offer. With activities designed to entertain and engage both children and adults, the party creates a welcoming atmosphere that encourages interaction and connection among participants. The giveaways add an element of surprise and delight, leaving attendees with lasting memories and a positive impression of your business.

Promote your event through email campaigns, flyers, and social media ads aimed at local parents.

Collaborate with Local Businesses and Non-Profits

Forming partnerships with complementary businesses can greatly extend your reach and boost your brand's presence in the community. By strategically collaborating with local businesses that serve families, you can create mutually advantageous cross-promotional opportunities that not only broaden your audience but also enhance the community experience.

Partnering with other local businesses can be highly rewarding, but it's beneficial to come prepared with some ideas. Here are a few to inspire you:

• Partner with a children’s bookstore to host a storytime event, where you can engage young readers and their parents in a delightful literary experience. During these events, you can promote your classes by offering exclusive discounts or free trial sessions to attendees, creating a seamless connection between the joy of reading and the educational opportunities your business provides. This partnership not only draws in families who value education and creativity but also fosters a love for learning in a relaxed, enjoyable setting.
  
  
• Work with a local coffee shop to offer “parents’ perks” for enrolling their kids in your programs. Imagine a cozy corner in the café where parents can enjoy a complimentary coffee or pastry while discussing the benefits of your classes. This collaboration can create a welcoming atmosphere for parents to learn more about your offerings, turning a simple coffee break into an informative and rewarding experience. By providing these perks, you encourage parents to invest in their children's development while enjoying a little treat for themselves.
  
  
• Collaborate with nonprofits for charity drives, linking your classes to a good cause. Organize events where a portion of the proceeds from class enrollments goes to a local charity, or host workshops where participants can contribute to community projects. This not only highlights your commitment to social responsibility but also attracts families who are eager to support businesses that give back. By aligning your business with charitable efforts, you create a positive impact that resonates with your audience and strengthens your brand's reputation.

These partnerships can introduce your business to new audiences while simultaneously strengthening community ties. By working together with local entities, you create a network of support and shared goals, fostering a sense of community that benefits everyone involved. Through these collaborations, your business becomes an integral part of the local fabric, known not just for its services but for its commitment to enhancing the community as a whole.

Why wait any longer?

The New Year is brimming with opportunities for expansion, innovation, and enjoyment. By adopting these strategies, you can draw in new families, please your current clients, and foster an even more robust community around your business.

Looking for help with starting your promotions or improving your online enrollment system with new software? Reach out to us for a demo—we’re ready to assist your growth! Let’s make this year outstanding for your business and the families you serve.