Ideas for newspaper ad

[mrs.meg]

I was just wondering what you all might say if you had to place an ad in the paper for more children. I only received one call last time, and I know I probably was a little late in placing the ad, since school had just started, but I just thought maybe you could give me some ideas of what you put in the paper. I really need to pick up one or 2 more since one of the kids I watch is going to preschool. Thanks!

[GretasLittleFriends]

I live out in a rural area. Honestly, I had better luck with putting a few fliers around town at the laundry mat, grocery store, credit union and such. I had a half page advertisement with a pocket for business cards. I did run an ad in the paper and it read:

Greta's Little Friends Daycare Licensed, loving, in-home daycare in the ****** /*****area. ******* School District. Openings currently available for children ages 6 weeks to 10 years. Open 24/7. Registered with USDA Food Program. Call Greta for more details or for an interview. (555)555-5555

Hope this helps.

[tymaboy]

This is what I put on Craigslist when I have an opening

• Located near Clark College, in ****, IA
• Reasonable Rates - Daily or hourly rates
• Open Monday through Friday.
• Nutritious meals & Snacks at no extra cost to you.
• Accepts Child Subsidy (DHS) & of course Cash is always Welcomed!
• CPR/First Aid certified

[seashell]

I was just wondering what you all might say if you had to place an ad in the paper for more children. I only received one call last time, and I know I probably was a little late in placing the ad, since school had just started, but I just thought maybe you could give me some ideas of what you put in the paper. I really need to pick up one or 2 more since one of the kids I watch is going to preschool. Thanks!

Personally? I would say save your money. Newspaper ads never worked for me in my large center or home center. My Husband owns a tavern and it never worked there either. Here's a perfect example. The tavern offered by one get one free dinners. We got 3 coupons back.

Think about this. Newspapers all over the country are struggling with circulation because most people are getting their news online now. And the people who still get the paper? chances are, they have grandchildren and don't worry about daycare.

Here's what's worked for me. Flyers around the neighborhood. Parents are thrilled to find someone just around the corner. Someone who wansn't looking to switch care, might think twice if your across the street instead of across town.

Vista print offers free 100 free flyers or post cards. You design them youself and pay shipping only. They have worked so well for me. Give that a shot. You'll save a ton of money an target your audience. Newspapers are too broad a range.

[mrs.meg]

Thanks so much, that gives me some great ideas!

[mac60]

I think a lot depends on where you live. I have gotten a lot of clients from our local newspaper. We are a town of maybe 9000 and we don't have Craiglist here. We have WalMart and Chief grocery store, and neither will allow flyers to be put up. We do have a laundry mat, and I have once put up flyers there, and received no calls from them. I have asked mom's to put up a flyer where they work. My best advertising is word of mouth, with newspaper ads second. I honestly think it depends on your location and what works in your area. Good luck.