I am also looking for 4 full timers but i know thats unrealistic so I came up with a plan - anyone who comes for more than 5 hours 3-5 days a week pays $45 a day. Anyone who comes less than 5 hours 3-4 times a week pays $10 per hour (if they're here four hours, they pay the daily rate anyways) and no less than three days otherwise it's just not viable for my business. Since legally, if you work retail or what have you, you're paid 3 hours regardless of whether you worked less, I charge a minimum of 3 hours. When people are desperate for spots, they'll do just about anything. I had one family put their one year old in my care without calling my references, and paid my rate without question bc i live a 3 minute walk from their home. If they want you, they want you. It's their kid. Charge what you feel comfortable charging and don't worry about whether or not it's too much - worry only that it is too little. After all, this is a business, and is the majority of the reason why we're doing it. Don't sell yourself short. If you're worth it, they'll pay.