Previously when I have done childcare, it was rather informal in the sense that I did not have a contract, I did not ask for paid stats/sick days, etc. I had tons of interest when I advertised and I was full.

Now after reading a lot of information on here and other places, I decided to be more professional about it. I made a contract, a website, everything is outlined including that parents will pay for days there children are scheduled to be here even if they're sick/it's a holiday, etc. I'm still getting inquiries, but I'm finding that people are not calling after the interview.

The only thing different now than before is that I have become more professional/formal, and I'm concerned that I'm scaring people off. But at the same time, I hear that this is what everyone does now and that it is the norm to have a contract like this, etc. Should I go back to the way I was doing it before? I might have to if I don't start getting kids here. I thought that being more formal about everything would help, but it hasn't at all!