Unlocking Growth: How to Build a Thriving Childcare Business

Unlocking Growth: How to Build a Thriving Childcare Business

Running a childcare center isn’t just about providing a safe space for children—it’s about building a thriving business that attracts families, retains top talent, and delivers excellence every single day.

So, how do the most successful childcare providers stand out? In a recent episode of the Childcare Business Growth podcast, we had the privilege of speaking with Wei-Li Chong, former President of KinderCare—the largest childcare provider in the world. With years of experience leading thousands of childcare centers, Wei-Li shared invaluable insights on optimizing workforce performance and shifting mindsets for growth.

If you're looking to elevate your childcare business, here’s what you need to know:

1. Build a Culture of Excellence

When Wei-Li joined KinderCare in 2012, the company had suffered 14 consecutive quarters of decline. However, by shifting the culture and focusing on leadership, they achieved 25 quarters of growth, with enrollments exceeding the industry average by 3–4 times.

The takeaway? Culture matters. The best childcare businesses are built on strong values, engaged employees, and a shared mission. Ask yourself: Does my team feel empowered, valued, and connected to a bigger purpose? Because when employees believe in what they do, they bring their best to the job every day.

2. Shift from Reactive to Proactive Leadership

Too many childcare center directors spend their days putting out fires—staff call-outs, parent concerns, last-minute schedule changes. But to grow, you need to break the cycle of constant reaction and start leading with intention.

Wei-Li suggests three key strategies:

• Assess your time. Are you spending your day managing problems or driving progress?

• Empower your team. Delegate tasks and create clear roles to maximize efficiency.

• Clarify priorities. Make sure every team member understands how they contribute to the center’s success.

A well-led team delivers better childcare, creates a more positive workplace, and keeps families coming back year after year.

3. Become the Best in Your Community

What makes a childcare center truly successful? It’s not just about filling seats—it’s about becoming the go-to provider in your area.

Wei-Li posed a simple yet powerful question: Do parents in your community believe you are the best choice for their child?

If the answer isn’t an immediate "yes," there’s work to do. The best childcare centers don’t just attract families—they create waiting lists. Just like a top-rated restaurant where reservations book up weeks in advance, a thriving childcare center is one that parents trust and seek out.

So, how do you become the best?

• Build strong relationships with families so they feel connected to your center.

• Create a passionate and stable teaching team that loves what they do.

• Always strive for improvement—whether it’s refining programs, enhancing facilities, or elevating staff training.

4. Overcome Fear and Embrace Growth

Fear is one of the biggest obstacles to success. Fear of change, fear of failure, fear of taking the next big step.

One example Wei-Li shared was the hesitation many childcare centers feel when considering NAEYC accreditation. Many providers delay because they don’t feel "ready." But those who take the leap often find the process transformational, leading to stronger programs, better staff engagement, and greater trust from families.

The key lesson? Start where you are. Whether it’s improving staff retention, upgrading your enrollment process, or strengthening your leadership skills—growth begins with action.

5. Who Should Handle Enrollment Follow-Ups?

An important discussion point in the episode was whether center directors should handle tour follow-ups and phone inquiries. Large providers often use call centers, but smaller childcare businesses have an advantage—direct, personal engagement with families.

That said, directors can’t do it all. Many successful centers assign follow-ups to assistant directors or administrative staff, freeing up leadership to focus on family relationships and overall center quality. The right balance is essential to ensuring parents feel supported and engaged throughout the enrollment process.

Final Thoughts: Passion + Simplicity = Success

At the end of the day, building a thriving childcare business isn’t about complicated strategies—it’s about passion, simplicity, and intentional leadership.

By fostering a culture of excellence, shifting to proactive leadership, and prioritizing relationships, your center can become a sought-after provider in your community.

So, ask yourself: Are you ready to make the mindset shift needed to grow your childcare business?

The journey starts today.