Most preschool newsletters are developed on computers using some kind of software template. Microsoft Word offers several kinds of newsletter templates that help design a newsletter pretty effortlessly. Most newsletter software programs let you select the colors, font style, and logo you want to use consistently so that when you start to write the content, all of the set-up work has been done. After the newsletter template is designed, it will be saved for use again and again. Some things that have to be determined in the set-up process are the number of pages, the types of columns and their headings.
Preschool newsletters often contain a section of school administrative news with topics such as new programs being offered, licensing news, and information from the state childcare association. Another routine topic is "News from the Teachers," which includes information from each instructor about themes they are teaching and special events in their classrooms. Many newsletters have a column focusing on the school calendar that lists upcoming activities such parties, field trips and vacation days. There may be a column written by a volunteer on behalf of the parent organization. You also can include a list of activities that parents can use to support their child's development at home.
How often a newsletter should be published depends on variables such as staff time and the need to get information out to families. Once the frequency of publishing is set, it is important not to miss deadlines. Families begin to anticipate the next newsletter and want to read about what is going on. Newsletters take time and someone on staff has to have dedicated time to prepare the newsletter. If the newsletter is going to be published only when someone has time, there is a risk it will not be a priority and will not get done on time. One way to avoid late publication is to spread the responsibility for writing the newsletter among multiple staff members. Assigning each staff person a specific area of content and deadlines helps keep the presses or printers rolling.