Not sure what to do

[jodaycare]

One of my daycare parents gave notice and her child's last day is Friday. I have two children leaving to go to school in September and I have a new baby starting then as well. In September, my numbers will look like this:

For two weeks each month I will have: 1 -12 mth old M,T,Th, F
1 - 2 yr old M-F but his Mom is pregnant and due in Jan
1 - 2 yr old M,W,Th,F
1 - 3.5 yr old M -F

For the other two weeks I will have the same children minus the 3.5 yr old.

The other problem is that the one that is leaving this week, MAY be coming back part time or full time at some point depending on what happens with her job.

So I guess my question is , do I advertise? or wait and see what happens. If I do advertise it will be for a Sept/Oct start. But on the other hand, I kinda want a lighter load because my new little one is a preemie and has some special care needs.

If you have read this far, thank you.

[Lou]

It completely depends on you and your situation. If you would like that space filled for income purposes then absolutely do not wait and get your ad up. It is not your responsibility to save a "maybe" space for them, unless they are willing to pay for it. In fact, I would put up your ad regardless because you never know, an amazing family may come along and be a perfect fit! And yes, an October ad would work nicely for you to nicely transition your baby in before transitioning another!

[jodaycare]

Thanks Lou, financially I really do need to fill the space. I am struggling as it is, and after this week it will be even harder and with children and myself taking vacation time over the summer it is going to be rough. I am planning on revamping my daycare space in August, so once I have done that I will place my ad. I just left a message with a previous client that is on mat leave and due to return to work in late Sept or Oct so hopefully she will contact me and will need care for the baby, when her older son was her it was only two days a week so that would help.

[mickyc]

Yes I agree with Lou. If a family wants to hold a space then they need to pay for it. Put the ad up and if you find a family to fill your spot then do it.