Oh that is a tough one ~ it seems such a shame to loose out on a potentially awesome family you know because 'on occassion' they need childcare for their older sibling!

IMO this is another perfect example of how while I follow them because I am a rule follower and do not want to risk my business or my kids college fund in the event of an accident by going over ratio .... but I can see how sometimes the rules are just plain frustrating cause well if she was 'yours' you would not have to count her and could have 5 plus all your own but for some magic reason because she is not she would put you 'over ratio' and make you illegal :roll:

Are you in Ontario?

When does she turn 10 cause if you are in Ontario once they are 10 they do not count in ratios according to the DNA although you'd need to check with your insurance company?

Are there are people in your street who have a child the same age ~ would they be willing to help out with some after school play dates on those dates? Or do any of your other clients 'leave early' so that their attendance would not overlap after school? For example I use to have a client who picked up at 3pm so I could have if desired taken on an after school child at that point?