Would you lower your rate?

[Busy ECE mommy]

I wouldn't drop my rate if I felt my program was great. I live in an area where daycare providers are in abundance, so the competition is fierce. When I had a slump for "over 2 years" clients, I actually gradually raised my rates, as well as revamped my program. I reorganized the playroom/bought some new larger toys/took new pics for the website/took a few extra professional development courses and posted them on website/revamped the menu etc. I know some providers in this area that create a niche market by teaching french to the kids or music, if you have any of those skills, or by taking the kids to different outings/classes, or by having a music teacher or gymnastics lesson come into your home. You have to become creative to think of ways to make your program stand out from the others. Sometimes it will require a financial commitment or time commitment on your part, but it worked for me.

[teddybear]

I was recently the same as you. Had 2 spots open at once, lots of interviews, said the wanted the spot, then found someone "closer" to home. I think they found cheaper. I lowered my rates by $20/wk and filled both spots that week. I'm $5/wk more than many of the closest providers but I have 2 school-agers, so I have a lower ratio during the day. My references are awesome too.