After more than two decades running my own childcare business, I made the tough but exciting decision to close my doors in 2020. But here’s the thing—my childcare exit strategy didn’t start the day I packed up the playroom. I had been quietly planning my next chapter for at least two years before that final day. Why? Because I knew that stepping away from something I had built with my whole heart would take more than just a goodbye letter to parents. In this post, I’m pulling back the curtain on how I prepared for life after childcare and why having a solid exit strategy isn’t just smart—it’s essential for your peace of mind, your future, and yes, your finances.
I Knew It Was Time — Even Before It Was Time
In 2020, after more than 20 years in the childcare game, I made the big decision to close my daycare. Some people thought I was crazy. Others thought I was burned out. The truth? I had been planning my “what’s next” chapter for two whole years before I ever packed up a cubby.
It wasn’t a spur-of-the-moment decision. It was a slow, intentional pivot.
Let’s be real — running a childcare business is no joke. It takes your energy, your patience, your weekends, and your snack budget. But after two decades of building something I was proud of, I realized I was ready for something different. Not easier, not smaller — just different.
So I started asking myself the same question I want you to ask today:
What comes after childcare?
Related Reading:
Why No One Talks About Life After Childcare
Let’s talk about the elephant in the daycare room.
Most people assume once you’re in childcare, you’re in it for life. Like, maybe you’ll retire at 80 with your last diaper change and a juice box toast.
But here’s the secret: You’re allowed to want something different. You’re allowed to grow. To change. To evolve.
What we don’t hear enough is that it’s okay to plan for that next season — even while you’re knee-deep in licensing visits and potty training.
Related Reading:
- The Best Morning Routine The Daycare Provider Needs
- How To Save Your Sanity and Boost Your Daycare Business
Click to learn how using Artificial Intelligence can help you run your daycare easier!
What My “Next Chapter” Looked Like (And Yours Might Look Totally Different)
When I started planning my exit strategy, I didn’t know exactly what it would look like. But I had some ideas. I knew I wanted to stay connected to the childcare world, but not necessarily in the same way. Here’s what I explored — and what you can, too.
Let’s make your childcare program even more amazing together! CLICK HERE to see how Adrienne can help you tackle the toughest challenges in your childcare business, boost your growth, and set you on the path to success.
1. Childcare Consultant
You’ve got wisdom. You’ve got war stories. Why not help the next generation of providers get started the right way?
Consulting is a great way to use what you already know without doing circle time every morning.
2. Digital Product Creator
Over the years, I’d built forms, templates, handbooks, and curriculum tools. I turned those into digital products and started selling them to other providers.
If you’ve ever said “Ugh, I wish someone would just give me a form for this,” then guess what? Someone else is saying that now. You could be their answer.
3. Content Creator and Trainer
I started a blog, launched a podcast, and began hosting workshops. Why? Because I realized I still had a lot to say.
You can teach online, speak at conferences, or even write a book. You don’t have to disappear just because you stepped out of the daycare trenches.
But What If I Want Something Totally New?
Listen, not every provider wants to stay in the childcare world. That’s okay too. Your skills are wildly transferable.
Here are a few business or career ideas that former providers like us are built for:
1. Parent Coach
Use your behavior management skills and developmental knowledge to support overwhelmed parents.
2. Home Organizer or Productivity Coach
Let’s face it: running a daycare is just managing controlled chaos. You’re already a pro.
3. Professional Nanny or Travel Nanny
Want more freedom but still love working with kids? A flexible, high-end nanny job could be the ticket.
4. Event Planner (for Kids’ Parties!)
You’ve planned 237 birthday celebrations already. Time to start getting paid big for it.
5. Etsy Seller or Crafter
Arts and crafts were your jam. Now they can be your income.
Planning Makes All the Difference
Here’s what I know now: Planning your exit is not quitting. It’s building.
Because I started mapping out my next chapter early, I didn’t feel lost when it came time to close. I felt excited. Nervous? Yes. But mostly excited.
And the truth is, I’ve met so many providers who wish they’d thought ahead. They kept pushing through burnout, thinking there were no other options.
But you, friend? You’ve got options.
You’re Not Done — You’re Just Shifting Gears
Let’s stop pretending that closing a childcare business is the end of the road. For many of us, it’s just the on-ramp to a new adventure.
You have built something amazing. You’ve helped families. You’ve shaped tiny humans. And all of that has prepared you for whatever’s next — whether that’s starting your own business, writing a book, coaching other providers, or even doing something completely unexpected.
So if the thought of “what’s next?” keeps tapping you on the shoulder, listen to it. Start small. Dream big. And know that planning your next chapter is not only doable — it might just be the best thing you ever do for your future self.
You’ve got this.
