Parents will pay to play pickleball!
Starting a babysitting service at a park near pickleball courts is a brilliant idea that addresses a genuine need for parents! Let's dive into the business concept and develop a plan for you to get started.
The Job Your Product or Service is Providing: Parents who love playing pickleball often face the challenge of balancing their time for sports and family duties. Your babysitting service will solve this by watching their kids at the park near the pickleball courts. This service not only ensures that the children are safe and entertained but also allows parents to engage in their sporting activities without worry.
Assessment of Capabilities and Resources Needed:
Human Resources: You’ll need trustworthy, competent babysitters. Consider hiring local high school students or early childhood education students who are looking for part-time work.
Training: Babysitters should be trained in first aid, CPR, and basic childcare.
Equipment: Toys, games, portable shade tents, and first aid kits.
Permissions and Legal: Check local regulations about childcare services, especially in public spaces. You may need permits or licenses.
Insurance: Liability insurance to cover any potential accidents.
Marketing: Flyers at the pickleball courts, local community boards, and social media marketing targeted at local parent groups.
Value Propositions:
Convenience: Parents can enjoy their game knowing their children are nearby and safe.
Reliability: Providing dependable and trained caregivers.
Community Building: Creates a community space where parents feel connected and supported.
Customer Segments:
Primary: Parents and guardians who play pickleball at the local courts.
Secondary: Parents in the community looking for occasional childcare solutions.
Financial Plan and Pricing:
Cost Structure: Includes babysitter wages, marketing, insurance, and supplies.
Revenue Streams: Charging parents either a per hour rate or a session rate (e.g., per game or per morning/afternoon session).
Break-even Analysis: Calculate how many children need to be supervised per session to cover costs and generate profit.
Customer Discovery Questions:
What are the main concerns you have about childcare services at the park?
How often do you play pickleball and at what times?
What are your key expectations from a babysitting service?
Would a service like this encourage you to play pickleball more frequently?
What are the most important factors for you when choosing a babysitting service?
How much would you be willing to pay per hour or session?
What activities or games would you like to see provided to your children?
Do you have any safety concerns regarding having your children watched at the park?
Would you prefer a flexible use service (pay-as-you-go) or a membership model?
What is the best way to keep you informed about your child during your game?
Tip for Better Customer Discovery: Always focus on open-ended questions that encourage detailed responses rather than simple yes/no answers. This approach, inspired by The Mom Test, helps you gather genuine insights into what your customers really need and value.
This plan sets the foundation for a community-centric service that enhances the recreational experience for parents at the pickleball courts, offering peace of mind and fostering a supportive community environment.