I have had my home daycare for 6 years and have been fortunate to have long term clients who also give me great referrals. Daycare life had been good until about 9 months ago I noticed a "grandparent babysitting" trend.

I have lost 2 children in this time, one family had been with me for 6 years, because grandparents are moving into parents home or just taking over the care duties of the children.

I am registered with two agencies in my area and the referrals from them have dried up. I haven't had an enquiry in a year.

I have heard from some providers that they are seeing older children come to them because the grandparents quickly tire of childcare or don't want to be tied down. They of course then only have that child for a short time until they go to f/t time J/K

For the first time (and I know I have been fortunate) I will be scrambling to fill spots this September. I am worried about this trend. Has anyone else noticed this?