Building Momentum: How to Prepare for a New Year Strong

The end of the year in early childhood education often feels like a blur — holidays, family events, and staff burnout all colliding just as the finish line comes into view.

But before you start to close the door on this year, there’s one important question to ask: How can we start next year strong — not exhausted?

Momentum isn’t something you find in January. It’s something you build now. And a little planning in December can go a long way toward creating a calm, confident start to the year ahead.

Reflect Before You React

It’s tempting to rush into new plans and resolutions, but the best way to move forward is to look back first.

Take a few minutes to think about the past year:

• What worked well — even unexpectedly?
• Which small changes made the biggest difference for your team?
• Where did stress or staffing challenges pile up most often?

This reflection doesn’t have to be formal. It can be a short conversation with your lead teachers or a note you jot down for yourself. The goal isn’t perfection — it’s awareness.

Re-Engage the Team Early

January can feel like a hard reset for staff — new families, new routines, new energy levels. You can make that transition easier by reconnecting now.

Consider a brief year-end check-in:

• What do teachers want to keep doing next year?
• What could make their day-to-day smoother?
• How can you celebrate what they’ve accomplished?

This simple conversation builds buy-in and helps staff feel part of the plan, not just subject to it.

Plan Coverage Now, Not Later

A strong start comes from predictable coverage. Instead of waiting for January call-offs, set your backup plan now.

Posting shifts early helps subs plan their schedules and ensures you’ll have the support you need when the calendar turns over.

Even if your center is slowing down for the holidays, use this window to get ahead — your future self will thank you.

Carry Small Wins Forward

Big goals are exciting, but small wins are what build stability.

Think about the habits or moments that made this year smoother — clear communication, a culture of appreciation, or new staff routines. Keep those going.

Momentum comes from consistency, not overhaul.

The Tandem Perspective

At Tandem, we’ve seen that the centers who plan ahead finish the year stronger and start the next one with more stability.

We help make that possible by connecting centers with vetted substitutes, ready to work when you need them most — and by making staffing flexible enough to match your rhythm.

Because when the year starts with momentum, everyone — directors, teachers, and families — feels it.

🧸 Crib Notes

Like Cliff Notes, but for child care:

• Momentum isn’t found in January — it’s built now.
• Reflect on what worked and what needs to change.
• Re-engage staff early to build buy-in.
• Post January coverage before the holidays.
• Carry forward the small wins that worked this year.
• Tandem helps centers plan ahead for a strong start.

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