I've been running a successful centre in the greater vancouver area for almost 5 years now (0-5 years olds). I don't currently offer "out of school care" because I've always assumed maintaining reliable staff would be an issue. I am constantly asked by families moving up to kindergarten to consider offering the service. I'd like to be a full service child care centre (ages 0-12) but am hesitant to take the plunge.

I'd like to ask current providers of "out of school care", what are some challenges I may face and if it's really worth the initial investment and headaches. I've heard the toughest part is staff turnover due to the nature of the job (seen as temporary, split shifts, etc) Here are some pros and cons I've put together.

Pros:
- more profit $$$
- providing a much needed service to my community
- vans with my company logo at elementary schools act as an advertisement tool for the centre
- parents are more likely to choose a daycare they can stay with long term

Cons:
- large startup costs (vans, child seats, room furnishings)
- staff turnover
- vehicle maintenance costs $$$
- liability
- class 4 drivers license for vans larger than 10 passengers