Lol...I don't doubt that (re the parent being relieved that you weren't licensed). The word is starting to get around about the licensed sector. And I understand what you're saying about keeping your rates down. But I think the increase would be something like $1/day....maybe a little more, but not much. $700-$1000 spread out over a year really isn't much.
It's unfortunate that the government put us in this position...but they have. All we can do now is move forward and change with the times. I just read that they are, indeed, opening up a bunch of new institutional spaces, so the move to licensing is coming. That's my feeling. There is also a massive campaign from the childcare advocates for UCC and regulating everyone. When I say massive, I'm not exaggerating. I plan to prepare myself for that eventuality. I want the option there to be licensed. If the Cooperative doesn't get off the ground because of lack of support, that's one very nice option that you won't have and that would be a shame....and probably a regret down the road. Waiting to see how it all plays out before offering support is a short sighted notion...by the time it plays out, it may be too late and that alternative is lost and the existing agency model is all that's left. Does that make sense?