How do you feel about your child attending an organic preschool or school?

Question

I run an organic preschool near Seattle and am finding there is little interest in my community for this unique experience. I personally believe in organic and other non-harmful substances, and parent this way. I live in what I percieve to be an enlightened part of the country and have been stumped for why this isn't a priority for parents. My rates are the same or less than my competitors, I get a LOT of positive feedback from people who visit. The parents do not seem to care very much one way or the other that their child has an organic experience, though. They seem to be more attracted to my location and rates than anything else. They do seem to appreciate what is offered, but I do not believe that is why they chose my preschool. My basis for this are these- their children do not have an organic diet or lifestyle away from my preschool. I think they like my preschool but did not actively seek an organic place, they just liked my place and it happened to be organic. Thoughts/advice?

Answer 1

After working in a daycare 7 years I have come to realize that most parents don't really care what their children eat. The c**p I have seen served is appalling. A bunch of fried food, tons of carbs, very little protein, and no whole grains. It's setting the children up to be obese and diabetic but the parents don't care. Why would they be concerned about the rest of their environment? I agree with the previous poster who suggested posting flyers in whole food stores. Maybe you could find people that would be interested in your business. Good luck!

Answer 2

Personally, I would pay MORE for a program such as yours.

I think that people put too much emphasis on the cost of things, rather than their value.

I commend you for starting a program such as this and I hope that it works out for you!

Answer 3

I think your last statement says it.  Parents like your preschool but didn't seek an organic program. You apparently know already that they don't have organic lifestyles at home.

I think most parents are looking for good rates, a convenient  location and they want their kids to be safe and enjoy their time at preschool or daycare.  If an organic experience is important to you then keep that in your program.  It's good for the kids and their parents.  I'd survey parents to find out what's really important to them.  I'd market the program around what parents want.  

I have to admit that if I saw an advertisement in the paper or yellow pages for an organic preschool.  I'd wonder what the heck is that?  I might pass it up.  In my mind the words "organic preschool"  sound odd and expensive.

I don't have to tell you that right now "green" and "wholesome" are in.  Some might be thinking that "organic" is a gimmick.

Sounds to me like you are trying to provide good services.

I'd re-think your marketing effort.  Good luck.

Answer 4

I, also, run a child care and often toy with the idea of going organic.  My children live this way and I would love to share it with others.  Personally, I think the idea of green schools &/or organic schools are SO new and rare that parents don't even know to look for the option.

With that in mind..... market, Market, MARKET!!!  Get in with those people who WOULD look for that experience.  ASK where they shop, read, dine out and hang out, advertise there (even if it's  just a flyer on the Whole Foods wall!)... use cheap and wonderful outlets (like craigslist) to just get your name and message out...

e-mail me directly and let me know how it goes!!

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