If you run a daycare, you know how important it is to stand out. One way to do that? Get more Google reviews. They help build trust and show parents you care deeply about their kids’ safety and happiness.
But how do you get busy parents to actually leave a review? Don’t worry. I’ll share easy and effective ways to encourage parents to share their feedback. Ready? Let’s dive in.
Why Google Reviews Matter for Your Daycare
Google reviews do a lot of the heavy lifting for your business. Here’s why they matter:
- Build trust: Parents want to know your daycare is safe and reliable.
- Improve visibility: More good reviews mean you show up higher in local searches.
- Help parents decide: Real feedback from other families makes choosing easier.
- Create a strong reputation: Positive reviews stick longer than ads or flyers.
Setting Up Your Google My Business (GMB) Profile
Think of your GMB profile as your daycare’s online storefront. A complete, honest profile helps parents find you and trust you. Here’s how to get started:
Claim Or Create Your Listing
Search your daycare name on Google. If it shows up, click “Own this business?” to claim it. If not, create a new listing using your Google account.
Fill In Your Details
- Use your real address and phone number.
- Add your hours and photos of your daycare, classrooms, and playground.
- Write a short, honest description about what makes your daycare special.
Verify Your Location
Google will send a postcard with a verification code. Enter that code online to confirm your location. This step helps parents find you more easily in local searches.
Keep Your Profile Fresh
Update your hours during holidays. Add new photos from time to time. Parents notice when you keep your info current—it shows you care.
How to Encourage Parents to Leave Reviews
Most parents want to leave a review but forget or don’t know how. Here’s how to make it easy and natural:
Ask At The Right Time
Try asking when parents feel relaxed and happy—like during pick-up or drop-off. A simple, friendly request works best. For example:
“We’d love to hear your feedback when you have a moment.”
Make Leaving A Review Easy
- Send a direct link to your Google review page via email or text.
- Show simple steps on your website or newsletter.
- Keep the process short and clear—no one likes complicated tasks.
Explain Why Reviews Matter
Let parents know their opinions help other families and help you improve your services. People like to feel their voice counts.
Say Thanks
Always thank parents after they leave a review. A quick “thank you” goes a long way and encourages them to share again in the future.
Tips to Make the Review Process Even Easier
- Use short, clickable links instead of long URLs.
- Send polite reminders after a child’s first week or special event.
- Provide step-by-step instructions with pictures if possible.
- Share the review link through email, text, and social media to reach more parents.
- Make sure the review page is mobile-friendly—most parents use phones.
Using Email and Text to Remind Parents
Sending reminders by email or text is a gentle way to nudge parents. Here’s what works:
- Keep messages short and friendly.
- Explain why their review is helpful.
- Always include a direct link to your review page.
- Don’t overdo it—one or two reminders spaced out is enough.
- Personalize messages with the parent’s or child’s name if you can.
Should You Offer Incentives?
Some daycares offer small rewards to encourage reviews. If you try this, keep it simple and fair. Avoid anything that feels like a bribe.
Ideas that work:
- Discounts on future tuition (small ones!)
- Branded gifts like keychains or stickers
- Monthly prize draws with gift cards or toys
Remember, the goal is honest feedback—not just more reviews.
How to Respond to Reviews
Replying to reviews shows you care. It also encourages others to write their own. Here’s how to handle it:
- Reply to every review, good or bad.
- Thank parents for positive feedback.
- For negative reviews, stay calm and polite.
- Offer solutions and invite them to contact you directly.
- Keep your tone warm and professional—not robotic or defensive.
Using Reviews to Spread the Word
Positive reviews are great marketing tools. You can:
- Add them to your website with a special review section.
- Share them on social media as short posts or stories.
- Feature reviews in your email newsletter.
This helps build trust with parents who are still deciding.
Common Questions
How do I ask parents politely for reviews?
Thank them first, then ask kindly. Explain why reviews help your daycare.
When’s the best time to ask?
Right after a positive moment—like after a fun event or a smooth week.
How do I make it easy for parents?
Send a direct link and simple instructions.
Can I offer incentives?
Be careful. Focus on honest feedback and good service instead.
What if I get a negative review?
Respond calmly, offer solutions, and show you want to improve.
How often should I ask?
Regularly but not too often. After key moments works best.
Can I share reviews on my website or social media?
Yes. It builds your daycare’s credibility and trust.
Wrapping It Up
Getting more Google reviews isn’t complicated. Ask happy parents to share their thoughts. Make it easy for them. And always respond kindly to every review.
When you do this consistently, your daycare’s reputation grows. More families will find you and feel confident choosing your care. Start today—and watch your community grow, one happy parent at a time.
