Rate change; how to inform?

[bright sparks]

Its definitely great to hear how others handle teachers rates etc. I charge my teachers regular rate and then take a 50% retainer for the summer paid upfront. They have to pay me the first day of the summer break and it is 50% of the total amount for the summer. This secures their spot and I tell them they can bring their child 2 days per week as they have paid for it.

I am still somewhat conflicted about taking a teachers child. I have 1 right now who has been paying 2 days a week for nearly 18 months as she has been on extended Mat leave but she goes back to work in September and I will have her 2nd child in my care also and both will be full time. I just feel annoyed with myself for taking them on as once the summer comes I lose income but whether they are paid for 10 mths or 12 mths of the year they still get paid for the whole year and really what financial insentive is their for me to give them a discount. I should stop moaning as it was my choice to take them on and now this is my lesson I'm learning right now, but I'm even considering as theres 2 now, saying one child has to pay full price and one has to pay the 50% retainer over the summer otherwise I will lose even more money.

[Dreamalittledream]

Phew! All that worry on my part for nothing. I decided to increase for everyone, even my 2 clients that just started in January. I have signed back contracts from everyone; no one resisted in the least. In fact, one parent said she would have paid more, because I'm so worth it to her for what I do (wow!). Phew!

[Inspired by Reggio]

Love posts like that ... we often do worry too much for sure ~ and honestly a client who resists a small increase in fees when we all know that EVERYTHING in life goes up in cost from time to time well I would have to seriously consider wanting to work with them anyway

[Momof4]

Oh Dream, I'm so happy for you!!!