That's really unfortunate. It can be a stressful job and I suppose it depends on where you live. I have 2 centres within a 1 minute walk of my house, but am full for about the next 2 years or so. Every area is different. Some of us think that Bill 10 is the first step in the daycare system just being absorbed into the school system...all signs point to that. There will still be a market for ICPs, but if you wish to stay in business, you'll probably have to up the ante substantially, regardless of how good a program you run. I foresee ICPs catering to a wealthier crowd...those who don't want their children institutionalized and have the money to choose. It's already happening with FDK. Montessori schools are filling up now with parents, like my sister, who don't like what they see happening in the school system. I plan to dramatically change my business, crank my rates (when it's time) and hone in on that specific market. It would be wise, again, if you wish to stay in this business, to get your ECE if you don't have it already. They're certainly making it easier and easier to do so and having that ticket does have it's advantages in the market.

At any rate, I'm sorry some of you are having a tough go. It's a hard time for all ICPs. CICPO has been hard at work trying to make changes, and we've certainly been heard and have a presence. However, we simply didn't have enough ICPs joining in to really have the impact we were shooting for. It's too bad, really, because given the amount of progress we've made, we actually had a shot. All we can do now is continue to hope for a Cooperative and adjust our business strategies to fit the new daycare climate. Good luck everyone.