How long until you had a full group?

Just wondering how long it took everyone to fill their daycare?

It depends on so many factors but I was lucky. I opened in a huge neighborhood with 3 schools nearby (I only take teacher's children) that had just lost their only 2 Home Daycares (my neighbor opened one as well this year). I opened 2 years ago in late August with 2 full-time. The following December 3 more full-time came aboard. Considering the fact that I have never advertised (only word of mouth) and that I take only teacher's children I consider my self very fortunate to actually have remained full (with a wait list) since.

It took about 7 months and then it was mainly word of mouth. My first client was one crazy lady yet she told all her co-workers how much she loved me (because I was dumb enough then to put up with her crap LOL) 7 years later most of my clients are from her (old) work place or have referred me to their extended family.

My first year was very difficult and I ended up terminating 2 families because they weren't working out but I learned a lot. By my second year I had my first wonderful client base of 5 great families. Keep working at it and don't sign on families who will make your life miserable. It's much better to wait and find the best match for you. Parents who will work with you and children who are well behaved.

I was lucky and filled the spaces I wanted to fill within a couple of months of advertising (but I only wanted three to begin with and I staggered the start dates so they were a month apart). It really depends on your area, your competition, the demand in your area, what you are offering, etc etc etc. Good luck!

It took me 7 months to be full. I was pretty relaxed about it and didn't do any advertising. I filled up from referrals and word of mouth :-)

I've been open a year and half and am still not full.

I have one full time 2.5 yr old and 3 part timers that are between 2 and 3 yrs old. I get phone calls now and then but I think when parents hear I am not a seasoned veteran, I think they pass.

I keep hoping things will turn around soon. I would hate to have to go back to work for someone else.