I think it's completely reasonable to want a pay increase, as I am sure that all your clients get an annual pay rise to. I think a more accurate way to gauge where you average with your daily rate, is to look at your competition in your immediate area, so within just a few blocks and also in your town. The cost per day varies substantially across Ontario, not sure where you are, so that's probably a better way of knowing whether you are priced competitively. I also find that having all my daycare parents pay the same rate, makes book keeping so much easier.

I am priced at the top end for my area, but justify it based on the program I offer, daycare space and meal plan. This year I really want to raise my rates due to time of use hydro making a substantial difference on my bills but I don't want to price myself out of the market. Instead I am adding a few paid days off in the year to compensate me in an alternative way.