advertising help

[Linda/NE]

I'm sure you're all aware of the on going competition I have with the other preschool in town (where I used to work and the boss was impossible).

Yesterday I heard that she is down on numbers and is really struggling to get enrollment. (Yippee for me!! ) I already have 2- two day/wk classes set up (m-W Am and t-TH AM)

Today in the paper she has an ad introducing a new teacher there with a Bachelor's Degree (like I have) and a Master's Degree in Reading and 3 years experience.

This new teacher is no one I've heard of before and most likely from out of town. Since I've left she has always hired people from out of town. Thinking back on my experience with her, hearing about the experience of the teacher who was there before me, and the experience of the gal who replaced me, I can't see her letting this new teacher have the run of things. With the 3 of us she was sure to have her foot in the door and wanted things done her way even though it was not beneficial to the children or the program. She is only offering classes 3 days a week and I think it's one- 2 day class and one- 1 day class. So, realistically why would she need to hire someone to teach for her? Those of us who know the inside scoop of the preschool, know it's because she's not qualified to do it and compete with my program.

So, my dilemma is--how do I advertise in next week's paper? I want to focus on the facts that I have 10 + years of experience teaching and working in a variety of early childhood settings (daycare Center, private preschools, elementary school, head start, family daycare home and my preschool and afterschool program), I offer before and afterschool care, and I focus on kindergarten readiness.

This town is already so focused on choosing preschool (and most anything else) based on social status, I just feel at such a disadvantage. The gal who replaced me (who now brings her son to me for summer and afterschool care on occasion) told me not to sell myself short. That I'm actually teaching the kids something and all she does is send home cutesy art projects that all look the same. I haven't had a chance to talk to her though about this new teacher.

All my strong points seem too much to put in an ad. I do have a free web hosted website. Should I include something about :for more information check out our website??

I'll include the website addy for you to check out and give me pointers. (please edit this out if this is not acceptable on the forum)

http://www.geocities.com/lindaavonne...preschool.html

thanks!!

[AnnW]

I read this yesterday am (at 4 before work!!!) and wanted to reply but it was just to early too think straight!!! LOL


I wouldn't focus your ad on how you are better than your comp. Look at people's reaction to negative political ads. Focus on YOUR strong suits.
I like this part on your web page..

The Discovery Center is not your typical Daycare. In fact we don't really care to use the term "daycare."
At the Discovery Center children will :
* explore their world
* socialize with other children
* choose activities of interest to them


So maybe you could title you ad
"Not your typical day care"

After more than 10 years of working in early childhood developement, I have learned that parents and children want so much more than just a daycare. That is why we are called the Discovery Center. At the Discovery Center children will :
* explore their world
* socialize with other children
* choose activities of interest to them

then maybe briefly talk about your hours and then link to the webpage for more info.

Hope this helps!!!

(also, next time give people a chance!)

[vea29]

I would also maybe mention the family style atmosphere....because those big places are so uninviting.

[littlesista06]

Nicely done already! I wouldn't know the first thing about starting a web page, myself.

I like the suggestions you already have; the only thing that stands out to me, isn't advertising related actually. I'm surprised at how low your cost is. For a four day, three hour a day program for our four year olds we charge $150 a month and ask for some supplies on top of that. Have you thought of charging any more? You sure have a LOT to offer those kiddies.

[MaryL]

I love your website!!!

[angie r]

I'm glad you got some responses! I am terrible at this sort of thing. Neat site!