So sick of the excuses

[2cuteboys]

That's terrible! I've had a parent drop out of care because grandma could do it. It's frustrating to always be told that there is a cheaper option.

One thing I've heard recently is to try to make yourself an "authority" on childcare. Like bring information in and post on a bulletin board, try to take any quick online seminars on childcare (you could list it on your website or display a certificate in your home), or find some good parenting or childcare sites to link to your website. It will draw parents in knowing that you've gone te extra mile and have been searching for ways to excell in the field. Not that I think this is a job where you can read it in a book and be good at it. But if it draws families in, you will get a chance to show them all your other skills.

You could also find a hook to get parents, like being all-natural/organic, focus on development, preschool programming, etc.

I hope you get some good families in soon, and can relax a little bit!

[SecondAve]

I have seen some other providers on here give good advice regarding why you are doing it. Many have said it is not wise to say you are doing it to stay home with your own children or that you left a previous job to do it. Parents sometimes feel more confident in knowing their provider is opening their home to children because they feel a calling to do it. That they have a background surrounding children, even if they don't possess an ECE diploma. Maybe don't bring up that you are doing it to stay home with your children and left a previous job.

I in fact do run an at home daycare for the same reasons as you, but when speaking to parents and advertising I always draw on other things. I let parents know that I came from a very large family and my entire life has been surrounded by children. So, it is true I do not have an ECE diploma but I know and adore children. I also play up things I offer that other providers in my area do not. We all have that special something that makes us a little unique.

Best of luck, it truly is no fun interviewing and looking for clients. I also have had my fair share of excuses and a couple of no call, no shows. Which I find beyond rude. Any no call, no show is an automatic "no" from me. The one lady called the day after not showing up and I didn't answer the phone... she also didn't bother to leave a message. But there was no way I would care for her child after that. Once again hang in there and the right families will come.