I never take a deposit without a firm start date.

I also give them start options. For example September 2, October 5 (Just a random date) etc. I would give them until October to make their final choice regarding care, this mom probly has a zillion things going on.... (Waiting for her job to get back to her re: start date, sorting out driving times, arranging back up care)

I also never start a client mid month unless its urgent, and we work out a payment plan for those days...but that is my preference.....

PS: Don't shoot the messengers, we are only trying to help.