Episode Highlights

The Interview That Saves You a Bad Enrolment

 

Hello, my lovely listeners 💛

This week’s episode is all about one of the most important parts of running a successful family day care business -  interviewing new families.

It’s easy to think that an interview is simply about filling a vacancy, but I see it very differently. Every interview is an opportunity to welcome a family, build trust and, just as importantly, decide whether we’re the right fit for one another.

The questions you ask before enrolment can save you countless challenges later. They help you understand the child’s needs, set clear expectations with families and protect the culture of your service from day one.

If you've ever struggled with difficult family relationships, mismatched expectations, or wished you'd asked more questions before enrolment, this episode is for you.

 

What I Covered in This Episode

Sell the Vibe Before You Vet the Fit

The first few minutes of an enquiry matter more than most educators realise. I share why leading with warmth, confidence and professionalism helps families feel safe while also positioning you as the expert in your business.

Ask Better Questions About Sleep

Sleep routines can make or break a smooth transition into care. I explain why vague questions aren't enough and the specific information I ask families before their child even starts.

Understand a Child's Separation Journey

Every child comes into care with different experiences. We explore why asking about previous separation, settling experiences and attachment helps you prepare realistic expectations for both the child and their family.

Talk About Discipline Before Problems Arise

Different families have different approaches to behaviour guidance. I share why discussing boundaries and positive discipline before enrolment can prevent unnecessary conflict later.

Find the Right Values Match

Just because you have a vacancy doesn't mean every family is the right fit. I explain why values should always come before availability and how asking direct questions helps families reflect honestly on whether your service aligns with their expectations.

Set Clear Expectations Around Illness

One of the biggest frustrations for educators can be avoided with honest conversations before enrolment. I discuss how to confidently explain your illness policy so families understand their responsibilities from the very beginning.

Communication Matters

Families all have different expectations around updates and communication. I talk about creating boundaries that allow you to communicate well without compromising your presence with the children.

Don't Avoid the Money Conversation

Fees, Centrelink and Child Care Subsidy conversations can feel uncomfortable, but avoiding them only creates bigger problems. I share why these discussions belong in the interview process, not after enrolment.

Learn to Listen Beyond the Words

Sometimes what families don't say tells you just as much as what they do. I explain why hesitation, defensiveness or avoiding certain questions can provide valuable insight during an interview.

Give Yourself Permission to Say No

One of the biggest lessons I've learnt is that saying no to the wrong family protects your service, your wellbeing and the children already in your care. Being selective isn't unkind, it's responsible.

 

Practical Ideas You Can Use Straight Away

 

• Lead every family interview with warmth, confidence and clear professional boundaries.
• Ask specific questions about sleep routines, separation experiences and behaviour guidance.
• Explain your illness, communication and fee policies before enrolment paperwork is signed.
• Look for families whose values genuinely align with your approach to early childhood education.
• Trust both your observations and your instincts when deciding whether a family is the right fit.

 

Why This Matters

The families we welcome into our service shape the culture of our business every single day.

When we ask thoughtful questions, communicate clear expectations and stay true to our values, we create stronger partnerships, better outcomes for children and a more sustainable business for ourselves.

Not every family will be the right fit and that's okay. The goal isn't to fill every vacancy. The goal is to build a service where children, families and educators can all thrive together.

 

A Few Final Thoughts

"Saying no to the wrong family is what protects your ability to say yes wholeheartedly to the right ones."

Sometimes the most powerful thing we can do as educators is trust ourselves.

Clear boundaries aren't about pushing families away; they're about creating a service where everyone knows what to expect, feels respected, and works together for the benefit of the children.

 

Your Challenge This Week

 

• Review your current family interview process.
• Add one or two deeper questions that help uncover values rather than just practical information.
• Reflect on whether your policies and expectations are being clearly communicated before enrolment.
• Give yourself permission to wait for the right family instead of filling a vacancy too quickly.

 

Links Mentioned:

📖 Elevating Childcare by Janet Lansbury

📩 Send me a message via social media with the word "enrolment" and I'll send you my Ultimate Enrolment Pack, packed with interview questions and practical resources to help you attract the right families.

 

What’s Coming Up:

• Dream Lead Play Conference- Sept 2026
The Dream Lead Play Conference is back for 2026, in Sydney!  Tickets out soon!

 

Let's Keep the Conversation Going

What's one interview question that's helped you find the right family?

Or perhaps there's a question you wish you'd asked before saying yes.

I'd love to hear your experiences. Send me a message and let's continue supporting one another as we build thriving family day care businesses.

Thanks so much for spending this time with me today. Until next time, keep leading with confidence, heart, and purpose.

Big love from my heart to yours 💛

 

 

Thanks for holding this space with me today. Let’s be the educators who lead with courage, integrity, and heart.

If you have ideas for future podcast episodes or topics you'd like explored, feel free to reach out via DM or email. Thank you for being part of this incredible journey—here’s to a big-hearted and intentional 2026! 💜 Big Love, V xxx

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