Host a fund-raising Trike-a-thon. Most preschools have some kind of three-or-four wheeled vehicle that they love to ride. Take advantage of this love of transportation with a fund-raising activity that allows them to ride their favorite vehicle. Ask the students to get pledges from family and friends, such as $1 for each lap they ride. Then, have the students bring their trikes, bikes or other wheeled toy to school and ride them around the parking lot, track or indoor gym. Reward the students with snacks or other prizes at milestone laps. For example, after five laps they might get a Popsicle. For added fun, ask the students to decorate their rides and present awards for the best decorated bikes. Finally, present each student with a ribbon for participating.
Hold a silent auction. Ask parents to donate items they do not want any more, such as toys their children have outgrown. Arrange the items on a table with a bid sheet displayed below each item. Allow parents to bid on the items as they drop off and pick up their children. After a few days, award the items to the highest bidders, and collect the funds.
Host an ongoing art sale. Create space on a wall at the preschool and use it as an art and photo gallery. Throughout the year, display photos of the children, as well as some of their best artwork. Place a small price on the projects. Assure parents that you will be sending home plenty of their child's masterpieces---at no cost---throughout the year.
Offer a night of babysitting to the parents of your preschoolers for a fee. The parents can drop off their pajama-clad children at the preschool with pillows and blankets. Provide a movie and a snack for them while the parents enjoy an evening out.