It depends on so many factors but I was lucky. I opened in a huge neighborhood with 3 schools nearby (I only take teacher's children) that had just lost their only 2 Home Daycares (my neighbor opened one as well this year). I opened 2 years ago in late August with 2 full-time. The following December 3 more full-time came aboard. Considering the fact that I have never advertised (only word of mouth) and that I take only teacher's children I consider my self very fortunate to actually have remained full (with a wait list) since.