When your just starting out...how long does it take to fill up?

[dayna142]

Hi everyone,

I have not started to advertise my daycare yet because I wanted to get my cpr/first aid as well as all the paper work ready before I started any interviews. I was just wondering what is the average wait time to fill a spot? Also, should you advertise all your spots or just 0ne/two at a time? Thanks Everyone :)

[sunnydays]

It depends on so many factors, it is impossible to say how long it will take to fill your spots. Some people fill up within a month or two and others take up to a year to fill all of their spots. It is a bit harder when you are new as some parents will pass you up simply because you are new and don't have references, but there are always those who will take a chance on you if they like you and your daycare enough. I recommend only advertising 2 spots at a time as people might wonder why you have five spots and it is a give-away that you are new as well. Don't advertise that you are new (but when parents ask, you certainly need to tell them the truth). A website is invaluable for helping you get clients. I created one before starting and I never had much problem finding clients. If you have everything set up nicely and a plan for how you will handle things, it shows parents that you are serious about this and not just trying it out to see if you like it. Good luck!

[dayna142]

Thank you so much :)

[SongSparrow]

I would advertise 2 spots at first, just because I like to get used to one new family at a time. Also, like sunnydays said, having 5 spaces to fill is a red flag to parents that you are either brand new or have a huge turnover, both of which could make them pass you by.
Good luck, I remember how exciting it was while waiting to open! :)

[dayna142]

Thank you . I'm very excited. I cant wait to be working/playing with children :)