I feel it’s time I introduce myself. I’m a mom of two toddlers. I’m in various mom groups in my area. The kids and I travel all around DFW for meetups, outings, and play dates. We go to zoos, mall play areas, parks, libraries, family entertainment centers, outdoor concerts, festivals, and restaurants of all varieties (preferably loud ones, so our children don’t annoy other patrons). I’m also the administrative assistant to Beth Standlee and Trainertainment, and have a strong background in the service industry via over a decade of employment in restaurants.
I’d like to let you all in on a secret—Your center is EXACTLY what we moms need some days. Going to play or eat or eat and play at your establishment gives the kids a chance to run and play and expend some energy. It also gives us moms a chance to relax and watch our children experience joy and freedom away from the rules and confines of home.
We don’t make the decision to visit your center lightly. Just getting out of the house is a chore. Getting everyone dressed with matching shoes on their feet takes time. Packing a bag with changes of clothes and undies and diapers and wipes and sippy cups and that dang toy that we can’t possibly leave without, takes time. Buckling kids into car seats takes time. Then we have to drive with the kids, unbuckle those car seats, herd everyone across the parking lot after we get those shoes BACK on (because all kids like to remove their shoes in the car), and then we psych ourselves up for a little family fun.
When we walk in and are greeted with smiling team members, we relax immediately. When it’s clear the team member cares, I don’t have to worry about the place being dirty or unsafe. I trust that you’ve seen to it that it’s not. I trust you when your attitude is positive. I love it when you compliment my kids. There’s no better way to get in a mother’s good graces than to say something nice about her children. We’re suckers for that!
These days, we moms are VERY well-connected. I’d be embarrassed to tell you how many “Facebook Mom Groups” I’m a member of. When we have positive experiences, we shout from the rooftops about how everyone needs to meet us there next time, and actively work to plan future visits. We also are sure to share when we have bad experiences. Please make sure our experience is positive. Remember to be patient with moms with young children. We want to escape to your center, and we’ll be back if you make us feel safe and comfortable when we’re there!
I may technically be an industry insider, but I’m the same as any other mom when I’m out with my kids. Be sure to say hello and make our day when we come in next time.
