So true a&b about the parties. How is a group over 5 that are in paid care at any less risk than 5 who are in unpaid care such as a two hour party in a backyard. My kids are Tweens and their parents certainly don't stay when either of them have a bunch of kids come over to party on the trampoline, play video games and eat pizza. Do you think I'm any less liable if one of them falls and hurts themselves. A parent could still sue me. It's ridiculous.

Don't hate on me now...this is why SOME kind of regulation would be good for home daycare providers. Not just to restrict us on numbers/ age ranges and to get money out of us for licensing annually, but a way to offer resources to providers and support providers. Inspectors could do random check ins and while this wont magically solve all problems in home daycare settings I do believe it will help. I also know first hand that it helps as in England it is heavily regulated and the system works in the interest of not only the child's and their families but also in the interest of the care provider who has access to training, resources and grants.