I am thinking I may do the exact same thing as I am also at the very top for my rate...however, I already have 10 paid vacation days and 7 paid personal days plus paid stats. Last year I had only 5 paid personal days and I upped it when I moved and took on mostly new clients. I don't know what the norm is on your area (you stated that it isn't the norm to have paid days off), but my guess is that if the clients are happy with your daycare, they are not going to suddenly leave because you have decided to take some paid days instead of a fee hike. In fact, if you explain it like that, they may appreciate it! I would start with at least 5 per year (do you have any paid vacation days?). Good luck!