Simple strategies to turn short-term signups into long-term studio growth
Summer camps and short sessions do more than just fill your schedule—they introduce new families to your studio. These programs are often the first experience parents have with your brand, your team, and your approach to dance education. The question is: what happens after that first impression?
Turning summer families into long-term students isn’t about adding more to your plate. It’s about being intentional, using the right tools, and building in small but meaningful follow-ups.
Here’s how to turn your summer programs into a pipeline for year-round enrollment.
Make Summer a Strong First Impression
Summer sessions might be brief, but they’re packed with potential. Parents are observing everything: how their child is welcomed, how questions are answered, and how smoothly things are run.
A positive, personal experience sets the tone. Make sure your staff is engaged, families feel informed, and every child leaves camp feeling successful. That kind of first impression builds trust—and trust leads to return enrollment.
Keep the Connection Going
When summer ends, don’t let communication end with it. Use Akada’s built-in email and text messaging tools to stay in touch without overwhelming parents. Send a quick thank-you message, include a fun camp photo, and let them know about upcoming fall opportunities.
Even a simple “We loved having Emma in camp!” message can go a long way in helping parents feel seen and valued.
Follow Up with Intention and Timing
Your summer families may not be thinking about fall classes right away—but you should be. Timing your outreach matters.
Start with a friendly message the week after camp ends. Highlight fall class options, share registration links, and include an incentive if you’re offering one. Follow up again mid-to-late summer with class reminders and updates.
With Akada’s online registration, families can easily sign up anytime, day or night, without needing to call or visit the studio.
Offer Smart Incentives to Encourage Re-enrollment
A well-timed incentive can tip the scales for families on the fence. Consider offering early bird discounts or waiving registration fees to encourage timely enrollment. You can easily set these up in Akada when you configure your classes and tuition settings. Studio loyalty programs or priority access are also great ways to strengthen long-term relationships with returning students.
Make it about value—not just price. The easier you make it for families to continue, the more likely they will.
Streamline the Parent Experience
Parents want simple, stress-free processes. With Akada, they can:
- Register online from their phone or computer
- View class schedules and payment history
- Receive automated confirmations and reminders
- Make payments securely through the Akada Portal or app
When you eliminate friction, you remove barriers to enrollment.
Summer Is a Starting Point
Every camp or short-term class introduces new families to your studio. The goal isn’t just to run a great summer—it’s to plant the seeds for a strong, engaged year-round community.
Make the most of that first touchpoint. Stay connected, follow up with intention, and use Akada’s tools to keep families engaged long after summer ends.
Want more tips on growing enrollment? Read 5 Ways to Boost Summer Enrollment.
Get Started with Akada Today
With the right marketing, seamless registration, and smart retention tools, your studio can thrive—this summer and beyond. Akada makes it easy to manage enrollment with online registration, automated billing, and built-in communication features that keep families engaged. Make this your best summer yet and join Akada today.
