I guess it depends...how many other kids are your currently caring for ? I have four full timers so I have some flexibility with my last space - it can be a part timer, or it could be a short term contract - the other children provide the stability I need to run my program and pay my taxes. =) If you have fewer kids, you might need to start advertising now - this year has been horrible in my area - it's taken me forever to find clients. While I'm sure that you want to be fair with the Mom, the reality is that when her space becomes available she'll jump ship immediately (and I understand - my own children were on waiting lists for various different programs) If you can't afford to be "down a man" so to speak, maybe you should find his "replacement" now. Do you have enough energy/space in your program that you could advertise and take on a new client now ? It would mean more work now, but it would mean when your current dcb moves on you would still be financially stable.