The problem with selling to parents is that when “the child” signs up, it’s unclear who is really showing interest in the program.
It’s possible that the child’s agency has been stolen at moment zero. They haven’t even stepped foot into your room and they already feel like they had no choice.
The vibe when you’re working only with people who are forced to be present is tough. It doesn’t have a buzz to it. There’s a common feeling of “how little can I do to complete this experience?”
On the other hand, when you let the kids choose, sometimes you get conflict. You get competing priorities. The parent wants the kid in a piano lesson but they would rather be at this program. Now kids are becoming decision makers because they have to juggle priorities and make decisions.
While the process is slightly more challenging, showing kids that they have agency is one of the most powerful lessons they can learn.