Hi everyone. I have a question. When you are asked what you charge, and why, what do you reply? I know some answers will be:
-Your rate is competitive with other providers in the area
-You charge based on your program/qualifications

What other justifications do you have for your rate? Up until now, i have never been questioned on my rate, but i have an odd feeling i might. one of my DCG's has a cousin who will start in my daycare next month. She will be paying higher than her cousin for a few reasons.
1) New DCG is an early morning start (6.30 versus 7.30 when i open and i charge extra for that),
2) She will be a part time DCK versus her cousin, who is a full time DCK and my Part time daily rates are higher than my full time daily rates. Also, her parents need a flex schedule, meaning 2 days one week and 2 different days the next week. I don't mind because i was looking for a part time child anyhow and this one 'fell into my lap' lol
3) I have raised my rates since her cousin joined last year.

I have a good feeling i will not have to get into to too much detail about my rates (I hope! ) because i told them the rates in our telephone interview and in our personal interview, and it's in the contract and handbook. I just wanted to know what you tell people when they question your rates.