The Power of Gratitude in Your Childcare Business

Today, I want to share something that transformed not only my business but also my mindset — the power of gratitude. If you’ve ever felt like your business was running you instead of the other way around, this message is for you.

About ten years ago, when I was operating my childcare centers, I went through one of the toughest seasons of my career. There was a freeze on state funding, no new childcare certificates, and to make matters worse, I had just experienced a major staff turnover — my center director and most of my team left, leaving me with just four loyal staff members.

It was painful. Stressful. Lonely.

But through prayer, I heard something that changed my perspective forever. God told me, “Strengthen that which remains.”

At that moment, I realized I could either focus on what I had lost or be grateful for what I still had. Those four team members who stayed deserved my full attention, gratitude, and leadership.

So, I made a decision — to start each day documenting three reasons I was grateful. I called it my prayer journey, and it shifted everything: my attitude, my productivity, and even my business results.

Why Gratitude Transforms Your Business

Here’s what I learned — and what I teach my clients today:
Gratitude isn’t just a feeling. It’s a strategy.

When you practice gratitude in your childcare business, it does three powerful things:

1. Strengthen That Which Remains

Even when times are hard, you still have people showing up for you — your teachers, assistants, and even your parents. Take a moment to strengthen them. Send a thank-you note, write a kind message, or just say “I appreciate you.”

These small gestures boost morale and remind your team that they matter. Gratitude creates connection, and connection fuels commitment.

2. Shift the Energy and Productivity

A simple “thank you” can shift the entire atmosphere of your center. It doesn’t have to be grand — it just needs to be genuine. Buy lunch for your team, send a text of appreciation, or leave a short note of encouragement.

When your staff feels appreciated, their productivity increases naturally. They show up happier, more focused, and more willing to go the extra mile.

3. Cultivate an Abundance Mindset

When you focus on what’s missing, you block growth. But when you’re grateful for what’s already in front of you — your team, your parents, your children — you open the door to more opportunities and blessings.

That’s called the abundance mindset, and it’s one of the most powerful leadership tools you can develop as a childcare owner.

A Real-Life Turnaround

One of my clients, Holly, experienced her own season of challenge. Staff were quitting, state funds were delayed, and the pressure was intense. But instead of giving up, she leaned into what I taught her — systems and gratitude.

She told me, “Coach, it’s hard right now, but I’m so thankful for these systems. I’m learning how to run my business like a CEO.”

Before long, she saw a complete turnaround — grant approvals, financial breakthroughs, and a revitalized team. That’s what gratitude and structure can do together.

If you’re ready to see transformation in your childcare business, start with gratitude. Here are a few practical ways to begin:

✅ Write down three things you’re grateful for each morning.
✅ Send one thank-you message a day to a staff member or parent.
✅ Acknowledge small wins out loud during staff meetings.
✅ Celebrate progress, not just perfection.

And if you want to take it further, check out our Classroom Digital Bundle — a system designed to help your teachers stay organized and grateful for the space they work in. You can find it by clicking the link in our bio or visiting IOwnADaycare.com 

I want to personally thank you for being part of this journey. Without childcare business owners like you tuning in, I wouldn’t have the opportunity to use my gift to teach, inspire, and serve this amazing community.

Remember this —

If you manage the childcare business that you love, you’ll love the childcare business that you manage.

So, go out there today and strengthen that which remains — through the power of gratitude. 💛