I not hold place for longer than 2 week. I had child leave on 2nd Oct and just this weekend filled with someone starting 12th Nov. They came interview on Thursday and paid deposit and sign contact for 12th Nov start.

Normally, I do like Micky and if they want it, they pay it but it been so quiet here that I bend own rule just to know it filled.

When I had Sept vacancy from child go school, I contract for that back in Jan and the parent had pay for the Sept space from time it became empty even though mat leave not end until this month. They decide go back work early.

Problem with holding place long time, even with deposit, so much change in that time. Mom might decide not return work and after holding place so long, you back square one. To hold place for shift worker too, might mean turn away 9-5 parent who want sooner starting.

When parent want care months away, I interview and then if I want them, add to wait list.