Let's talk business...
Buddings has been a pioneer in flexible daycare since we opened in 2011. Our software and model are in use at programs in other parts of BC, and we're using our web-based booking system at our dog grooming centre, Scamps, which turns 2 years old this month.
We're proud that we've been able to provide quality childcare to the thousands and thousands of families at our centres, and positive that we've made an impact through our community activities. We know flexible care is "helpful" to families, but a good business is "essential."
Over the last year, we've let you know that it's become a challenge for us to retain customers for our Occasional Program for toddlers and preschoolers, because full-time spaces in early years are more available, thanks to the provincially funded childcare system.
In 2017, advocates for women, families, and educators, have helped to enact changes in BC that have been in the works for more than 50 years, and it's working so well, they were adopted by the federal government as well.
It was a giant leap forward for Canadian gender equality and child welfare! 🎉
This year, our daycare has been able to come back from the dire financial situation we were in last year. Thanks to families who donated to our fundraising. Thanks to the schoolage program that launched in 2023 and filled our afternoons. And thanks most especially to Ayumi, who managed both programs, promoted our story, and created a buzzing excitement in our Buddings family community that has turned everything around!
Where would any of us be without Ayumi?? ❤️
Thanks to her, we're no longer in a panic, which means we have the opportunity to manage a graceful exit, with 3 months notice, so families (and teachers) have time to find alternative placements.
We still have three fun-filled months, with friends, adventures, crafts, and classes! Our summer days will be brighter than ever, knowing we've made our best efforts, fulfilled our promise, and are ready for the future.
Our last daycare day will be Thursday, July 31, and we'll have a "Goodbye Party" on Friday, Aug. 1, so the kids, teachers, and families can come together and celebrate the beautiful adventure we've shared.
If you've joined us in 2025, and seen our busy mornings, you may wonder why we would close at all, but retention is the key to longevity. Even with Ayumi's heroic recruitment, we lose almost as many customers as we gain each month, and in the fall/winter seasons we lose even more.
Rather than wait for the dark times, we invite you to come out enjoy the sun with us!
