I get maybe 2 or 3 cold calls a week asking about care availability. I get maybe same number of e-mail inquiries. I pass on to other carers in area.

If I had opening, rare I need to advertise due to waiting list. If no one on list good fit for starting date, then ask my client if they know anyone needing care. Usually filled that way.

Sometimes if many places at once due to September school, I put ad on Kijiji. In October I place ad for one leaver for September 2015. Pregnant Mom come out day before Thanksgiving. She sign for place but not need until October 2015 but knows must pay once place empty from school leaver.

I rare have place open as people stay until school and not leave for second mat leave but keep first child in care hoping for place for new baby.

I last had vacancy in Sept 2014. I have one school leaver Sept 2015 which have contract and deposit filled. I have no more until Sept 2017 unless someone move away.

January and February normally busy, busy time. Lots of people looking for care once Christmas finish and usual need quick start. Delayed looking because of holidays and now in panic. Next busy time is May and June, people getting in before school breaks and school age children take all spare places for summer time. Local know to get carer before students Moms start looking for summer. July & August busy but for people looking for September - teacher who mat leave end June/July/August all look for start in September and all new people look for start then too.

Slow time of year is April and December.