Just need to let some of my frustration out.....

[dodge__driver11]

If a deposit cheque bounces, I wouldn't even consider doing business with this family.

I do not take ANY CHEQUES. I do cash only, and give a rec. right away, when taking a deposit, and a rec. at tax time for daycare fees.

ETA: When interviewing a family with an extended start date I do one of two things..... I either charge a holding fee, 50% of monthly fees with their deposit being deducted from the first full month of care, or I offer a casual drop in space until the family starts...(to an interested family that knows that the space is avail. for that limited time only)

But as the others have said I do not con't to interview unless I choose not to do business, and return their deposit...Or in your case tell them that the contract is null and void, and that I have chosen to con't looking.