This week, I’m diving into something crucial for every family day care educator—being prepared for when things go wrong. Whether it’s natural disasters, unexpected closures, or financial hiccups, too many educators are one emergency away from financial stress.

This episode isn’t about fear—it’s about empowerment. It’s about taking control, planning ahead, and making sure you have the safety nets in place to protect yourself, your business, and your well-being. Because no one is coming to save you—you have to take charge of your own future.

One of the biggest mistakes I see educators making? Undervaluing their work. You are not “profiting off the children” (let’s shut that idea down right now!). You are profiting off your hard work, your resources, and your expertise. And that’s how it should be! If you’re still operating at the CCS cap, you’re working below minimum wage—and that’s not sustainable.

Imagine you had to close for a week—could you afford it? Having an emergency fund means you can take time off without stress. Even setting aside one day’s pay per season can make a difference.

This is the one thing I want you to take action on today. Pick up the phone and call your super company. Make sure you have income protection and total permanent disability insurance. It’s a small cost now but could be life-changing if you ever need it.

If you’re still accepting payments from families yourself, you NEED a strict policy in place. No more chasing unpaid fees! If a family won’t pay now, they won’t pay later. Have a clear payment policy, enforce it, and protect yourself from financial loss.

Your support network matters. Whether it’s fellow educators, a professional mentor, or a trusted friend, having people to lean on can make all the difference. And don’t forget to look after yourself! Regular self-care (yes, even in the chaos!) helps you think clearly, problem-solve effectively, and avoid burnout.

Tough times will come—that’s life. But with the right financial, practical, and emotional safety nets, you can navigate challenges without spiralling into stress.

Your challenge this week: Call your super company. Check your insurance cover and make sure you’re protected. This is one small step that could make a huge impact on your future.

Did this episode hit home for you? What’s one thing you’re going to change in your family day care business to be better prepared? Send me a message or leave a comment—I’d love to hear from you!

Thanks for spending this time with me today. Let’s continue to advocate for slow, intentional, and heart-centred education. 

Speak soon! 💛