So you want to reach a wider audience for your children’s activity business - but do you know how?

Did you know that 47% of small business owners do all of their marketing themselves with no outside help? If this is you then you’ll know how much time it takes to plan and create social media posts, emails, pins, flyers for local marketing, website content for SEO - the list goes on!  

2024 Small Business Marketing Stats & Trends

69% of small businesses use digital marketing to attract customers and sales

36% of small businesses don’t have a website still.

96% of small businesses say they already use social media in their marketing strategy.

61% of marketers say their biggest challenges are generating traffic and leads.

17% of small businesses say they already invest in search engine optimisation (SEO).

47% of small business owners run marketing entirely on their own.

74% of consumers rely on social media to guide purchasing decisions.

41% of local businesses depend on social media to drive revenue.

46% of all searches on Google have local intent.

81% of shoppers research online before purchasing.

It’s a crucial time to reach new customers for your children’s activity and, whilst word-of-mouth recommendations can be valuable, there are many other ways that you can reach new customers too. Keep reading for some tips on how to do this in a structured way that can save you lots of time and leg work!  

1. Define Your Target Audience:

Before you can reach a wider audience, it's crucial to define who exactly you want to target. Consider the age groups, interests, and needs of the children and their parents. By understanding your target audience, you can tailor your marketing efforts to speak to them directly and develop programmes that cater specifically to their preferences.

2. Enhance Your Online Presence:

In today's digital age, having a strong online presence is vital for any business. Create an engaging website that showcases your services, highlights testimonials from satisfied customers, and provides easy-to-find contact information. Utilise social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter to share updates about your activities, post photos and videos, and interact with potential customers.

Bonus Tip: Did you know that you can create a FREE webpage on Wootzoo where you can appear in search results, showcase your business, and display contact details and reviews?

3. Optimise Your Website for Search Engines:

To ensure that your website appears in relevant search engine results, optimise it with appropriate keywords related to children's activities in your area. Use tools like Google Analytics to track website traffic and identify areas where you can improve visibility. If you create a free webpage page on Wootzoo then get in touch and we can help you with your SEO and keywords!

4. Collaborate with Local Schools, Nurseries and Community Centres:

Reach out to local schools and community centres in your area to establish partnerships or sponsorships. Offer to provide free workshops or demonstrations during school events, nursery sessions, or community events. This collaboration not only helps you gain exposure but also builds trust within the community.

5. Offer Special Promotions or Discounts:

Everyone loves a good deal! Consider offering special promotions or discounts for new customers or referrals. This not only incentivises people to try your activities but also encourages them to spread the word about your business.

6. Host Open Houses or Demo Days:

Organise open houses or demo days where families can visit your venue, meet you (and your team if you have one), and experience a sample of your activities. This gives potential customers a firsthand look at what you offer and allows them to ask questions and address any concerns they may have.

7. Create Engaging Online Content:

Developing engaging content is an excellent way to attract and retain customers. Consider starting a blog on your website where you can share tips, activity ideas, and parenting advice. You can also create informative videos or host webinars that provide valuable insights for parents. You can publish blogs via your free Wootzoo page too! 

8. Encourage Customer Reviews:

Positive customer reviews can significantly impact your reputation and attract new customers. Encourage satisfied parents to leave reviews on platforms like Wootzoo, Google, Yelp, or Facebook. Consider offering incentives such as discounts or freebies for those who take the time to leave a review.

9. Attend Local Events and Fairs:

Participating in local events and fairs related to children's activities is an effective way to reach a wider audience. Set up a booth with interactive games or demonstrations, distribute flyers or brochures, and engage with attendees personally.

10. Collaborate with Other Businesses:

Consider collaborating with other businesses that cater to families, such as toy shops, indoor/soft-play centres, or family-friendly restaurants. Cross-promote each other's services through joint marketing campaigns or by offering exclusive discounts for customers who use both businesses.

Expanding your reach and attracting a wider audience for your children's activity business requires planning, but if you follow our list of tips you’ll be well on your way to greater visibility! By enhancing your online presence, offering promotions, creating engaging content, and establishing partnerships within the community, you can increase awareness of your business and ultimately attract more families to participate in your activities. Remember, building relationships with your customers is key, so always strive to provide exceptional experiences that will keep families coming back for more.

Sign up for a free Wootzoo account today to get the ball rolling (and the customers rolling in too!)