When parents contact you MONTHS in advance

[playfelt]

If I was interested in the family I would interview and then set up a time for the contract to take effect that was about 2-3 months before the start date. I would charge the two weeks nonrefundable deposit at the time of the interview so at least I had something more commital. Then there would be a holding fee from the 2-3 month point and the child would be allowed to start part time since the space would be available. That way if the parent has changed their mind I have the deposit as well as time to advertise to refill the space and at the same time the family is not penalized for starting too look early.

[Emilys4Guppies]

I had a family contact me in March about care in October. They really liked my daycare and signed on that week. I don't mind waiting that long because we seemed like a really good fit as far as personalities, hours and temperment. They paid $100/month until Oct...NONrefundable. Then the also paid a 2 week deposit that will be used towards their last two weeks of care.

[lilac]

I had a family interview me for their son, and their 2nd was due in a few months and me to guarentee them a spot for their 2nd child when they needed it 14 or 15months later... I just say that I cant guarentee a spot, but if one opens up at that time, then they could have it. I am in need of the income and a fairly full daycare so I just cant hold spots open for that long. They didnt go with me, which is fine. I've also had lots of calls in the winter time for the following Sept, I usually tell them to contact me closer to when they need a space.

[Junelouise]

I have made the mistake a couple of times. Parents come 3 months in advance and say they will come to my daycare. I phone them 2 weeks before start date to get orientation started and they tell me they went with someone else...or "forgot" about me. Next time anyone wants to book in advance I will ask for at least a $ 200 deposit...if they don't want to do that..then so long!

[greenborodaycare]

I just had someone contact me about September 2012...the second child isn't even born yet! I just told her to contact me again in the 6 months before she needs care and I'll see if I have spaces and we'll go from there.

I had the same person contact me. I told her to wait at least till the baby was born! Sheesh...anxious much? lol