How to Host a Successful Preschool or Child Care Open House |

Back-to-school time is such an exciting time! Preschool or child care open house open house events typically take place at the start of the school year. It’s an excellent opportunity to say hello and welcome families to your school. It also sets the tone for a successful year ahead. Open Houses also engage families and begin building relationships and trust. They allow educators to embrace the whole family as part of the learning community, creating a bridge between home and school. To help you plan the perfect event, download our Open House Celebration Kit. It includes everything you need to host a memorable back-to-school open house.

Why Host a Preschool or Child Care Open House?

Open House events serve multiple purposes, creating a positive and welcoming environment for children and their families. Here are a few key reasons to host an Open House:

Encourage Family Engagement

Open Houses offer a unique opportunity for families to get involved in their child’s early education. When families feel engaged, they are more likely to participate in the learning process. Family participation can significantly enhance their child’s experience and development.

Open house events can serve several purposes. One main reason is to get to know each other’s families and create a sense of community.

Create a Welcoming Environment

A warm and inviting atmosphere helps children feel safe and comfortable in their new environment. When families know they are welcomed, they gain a sense of belonging, which can ease the transition into a new school year for both the child and the parents.

Connect School and Home

Open Houses help bridge the gap between school and home, allowing parents to see firsthand what their child will be doing each day. This connection can lead to a deeper understanding and appreciation of the curriculum and daily routines.

Build Relationships with Families

Building strong relationships with families is crucial for a successful school year. Open Houses provide the perfect setting for educators to meet families, learn about their needs and expectations, and establish open lines of communication.

Introduce the Curriculum

During the Open House, educators can showcase their program philosophies and guidelines. Families must understand how and why their children engage in certain activities. This transparency helps build trust and ensures that families are on the same page as educators regarding their child’s education.

Hosting an Open House sets the stage for a great school year and builds a strong foundation of trust, communication, and community. We hope these tips help you create an event that leaves a lasting impression on your families and sets the tone for a successful year ahead.

Tips for a Successful Preschool Or Child Care Open House

To make the most of your Open House event, consider the following tips:

Plan Engaging Activities: Set up interactive stations where families can participate in the types of activities their children will be doing throughout the year. This could include art projects, storytime, or hands-on STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math) activities. Use the activities in our Open House Celebration Kit to make activity stations.
Showcase the Learning Environment: Give families a classroom tour, highlighting key areas such as the reading corner, art center, and dramatic play space. This helps families visualize their child’s day and understand how each space supports learning and development.
Provide Clear Information: Ensure that families leave with a clear understanding of your curriculum, daily schedule, and any important policies. Hand out brochures or create a display board with key information, and be ready to answer any questions they may have.
Make it Personal: Introduce yourself and your team, sharing a little about your background and your passion for early childhood education. This personal connection can go a long way in building trust and rapport with families.
Respect Diverse Views: Acknowledge that families may have different views or expectations about their child’s education. It’s important to communicate that your program respects and values these perspectives.