Daycare.com Forum
Daycare Center and Family Home Forum>What to Charge?
midaycare 08:50 AM 12-14-2014
I keep being told my rates are low - really low. I have a niche program where I offer a Center experience in a home environment, and obviously with less kids - I can only have 6 per day.
I want to keep my rates affordable and a little on the cheap side because it makes me competitive, but I don't want to be outrageously low, either.
When I signed someone a month ago, she told me she was paying $40 a day for in home daycare, but that was a town over. A close town over, but still. Someone else told me that the centers are charging $47 a day.
I currently charge $27 a day. I'm trying to find out what other in homes around me charge but no one has websites with prices or wants to give out prices over the phone.
I was thinking maybe I would up my prices to $33 or $35 per day. Thoughts? It would just be for new clients right now.
I want to keep my rates affordable and a little on the cheap side because it makes me competitive, but I don't want to be outrageously low, either.
When I signed someone a month ago, she told me she was paying $40 a day for in home daycare, but that was a town over. A close town over, but still. Someone else told me that the centers are charging $47 a day.
I currently charge $27 a day. I'm trying to find out what other in homes around me charge but no one has websites with prices or wants to give out prices over the phone.
I was thinking maybe I would up my prices to $33 or $35 per day. Thoughts? It would just be for new clients right now.
Unregistered 09:14 AM 12-14-2014
I'm in the Kansas City area. I charge $40 for one day per week, $36 for 2 or more days per week and $31 for 5 days per week.
Unregistered 09:16 AM 12-14-2014
my pricing above is per day
midaycare 09:43 AM 12-14-2014
Originally Posted by Unregistered:
I'm in the Kansas City area. I charge $40 for one day per week, $36 for 2 or more days per week and $31 for 5 days per week.
I like the structure of charging more for part timers because I have almost exclusively part timers. I just wonder if I charged so much would I still get the part timers? I have to admit, I love the change of kids as opposed to the same ones every day.I'm in the Kansas City area. I charge $40 for one day per week, $36 for 2 or more days per week and $31 for 5 days per week.
SignMeUp 09:49 AM 12-14-2014
Originally Posted by midaycare:
I like the structure of charging more for part timers because I have almost exclusively part timers. I just wonder if I charged so much would I still get the part timers? I have to admit, I love the change of kids as opposed to the same ones every day.
But! Part of the joy of having part-timers is the extra pay. I find that it does cost somewhat more, per child, to have part-timers, but I charge a bit beyond that, because they also come with some issues particular to part-timers.I like the structure of charging more for part timers because I have almost exclusively part timers. I just wonder if I charged so much would I still get the part timers? I have to admit, I love the change of kids as opposed to the same ones every day.
I love having part-timers too. Always have
Now, don't hit me
The last time I said that it costs more for part-time children, I got told off 
I stand by what I say. In my program, it costs more
Leigh 09:52 AM 12-14-2014
I charge more than most in my town. I have had parents call me and say that they have heard that I am "really good", when asking for an interview, and ask to be placed on a wait list when I tell them that I don't have space (I am full again now after cutting back because of family issues earlier in the year). I'm not really better than everyone else (better than some, for sure, but there are some AWESOME providers in my area). They think I'm better, I believe, because I charge more. If YOU value your services, others will, too. I wouldn't recommend undervaluing yourself. Prices that are too low often make parents think that those low prices indicate your value.
daycarediva 10:12 AM 12-14-2014
Originally Posted by Leigh:
I charge more than most in my town. I have had parents call me and say that they have heard that I am "really good", when asking for an interview, and ask to be placed on a wait list when I tell them that I don't have space (I am full again now after cutting back because of family issues earlier in the year). I'm not really better than everyone else (better than some, for sure, but there are some AWESOME providers in my area). They think I'm better, I believe, because I charge more. If YOU value your services, others will, too. I wouldn't recommend undervaluing yourself. Prices that are too low often make parents think that those low prices indicate your value.
I agree. I am on the high end, and I'm worth it. I charge more than most in my town. I have had parents call me and say that they have heard that I am "really good", when asking for an interview, and ask to be placed on a wait list when I tell them that I don't have space (I am full again now after cutting back because of family issues earlier in the year). I'm not really better than everyone else (better than some, for sure, but there are some AWESOME providers in my area). They think I'm better, I believe, because I charge more. If YOU value your services, others will, too. I wouldn't recommend undervaluing yourself. Prices that are too low often make parents think that those low prices indicate your value.
NEVER undercut yourself.What is the standard market rate in the area? I would look that up and adjust accordingly.
midaycare 11:12 AM 12-14-2014
Originally Posted by daycarediva:
I agree. I am on the high end, and I'm worth it. NEVER undercut yourself.
What is the standard market rate in the area? I would look that up and adjust accordingly.
I'm having trouble figuring out the standard market. No one advertises on Craigslist here - at least licensed providers. It's pretty much word of mouth or Facebook. But no one lists prices. I would have to go for an interview with another provider to find out, and I really don't want to waste their time. I would be ticked if someone did that to me.I agree. I am on the high end, and I'm worth it.
NEVER undercut yourself.What is the standard market rate in the area? I would look that up and adjust accordingly.
Second Home 01:19 PM 12-14-2014
Do you have a provider search program run by the state ? If so hen try to find prices on there .
We have a service that lists lic providers (if you want to be ) , they have a basic questionaire and you fill out what you offer / charge .
We have a service that lists lic providers (if you want to be ) , they have a basic questionaire and you fill out what you offer / charge .
midaycare 01:33 PM 12-14-2014
Originally Posted by Second Home:
Do you have a provider search program run by the state ? If so hen try to find prices on there .
We have a service that lists lic providers (if you want to be ) , they have a basic questionaire and you fill out what you offer / charge .
I believe we just have the state search program but it doesn't always list what we charge. I should ask someone from MI to be sure...Do you have a provider search program run by the state ? If so hen try to find prices on there .
We have a service that lists lic providers (if you want to be ) , they have a basic questionaire and you fill out what you offer / charge .
Unregistered 03:09 PM 12-14-2014
Originally Posted by midaycare:
I keep being told my rates are low - really low. I have a niche program where I offer a Center experience in a home environment, and obviously with less kids - I can only have 6 per day.
I want to keep my rates affordable and a little on the cheap side because it makes me competitive, but I don't want to be outrageously low, either.
When I signed someone a month ago, she told me she was paying $40 a day for in home daycare, but that was a town over. A close town over, but still. Someone else told me that the centers are charging $47 a day.
I currently charge $27 a day. I'm trying to find out what other in homes around me charge but no one has websites with prices or wants to give out prices over the phone.
I was thinking maybe I would up my prices to $33 or $35 per day. Thoughts? It would just be for new clients right now.
Can I ask what you mean by "offering a center experience"?I keep being told my rates are low - really low. I have a niche program where I offer a Center experience in a home environment, and obviously with less kids - I can only have 6 per day.
I want to keep my rates affordable and a little on the cheap side because it makes me competitive, but I don't want to be outrageously low, either.
When I signed someone a month ago, she told me she was paying $40 a day for in home daycare, but that was a town over. A close town over, but still. Someone else told me that the centers are charging $47 a day.
I currently charge $27 a day. I'm trying to find out what other in homes around me charge but no one has websites with prices or wants to give out prices over the phone.
I was thinking maybe I would up my prices to $33 or $35 per day. Thoughts? It would just be for new clients right now.
What exactly is a center experience?
In my experience, a center is multiple teachers, kids separated into groups of playmates the same age and lots of kids.
I am not understanding how you can do that with 6 kids, even if they are all the same age..
So curious what you mean by "center experience"
holly333 04:04 PM 12-14-2014
The YMCA childcare resource center has a list in my area, maybe they do near you as well?
midaycare 06:48 PM 12-14-2014
Originally Posted by Unregistered:
Can I ask what you mean by "offering a center experience"?
What exactly is a center experience?
In my experience, a center is multiple teachers, kids separated into groups of playmates the same age and lots of kids.
I am not understanding how you can do that with 6 kids, even if they are all the same age..
So curious what you mean by "center experience"
My "niche" is that I take the best of a Center and the best of a home daycare and combine the two. I put a lot of money into the start up of the daycare - the dck's have Center-type manipulative and toys. I do a curriculum, have a Spanish teacher come in two times a week, and have a reading specialist work with all of the kids.Can I ask what you mean by "offering a center experience"?
What exactly is a center experience?
In my experience, a center is multiple teachers, kids separated into groups of playmates the same age and lots of kids.
I am not understanding how you can do that with 6 kids, even if they are all the same age..
So curious what you mean by "center experience"
Of course, this means I pay a lot more out of my pocket 1 because I pay for the Spanish teacher ($20 an hour) and the reading specialist ($10 an hour). The curriculum is $130 per month, yada yada.
Controlled Chaos 07:40 PM 12-14-2014
Wow! If you are offering all that - special teachers etc. you should be charging a minimum of $30 a day. I am in a cheaper area to live, I charge $30 for fulltimers and $35 a day for more part time kiddos. I am more expensive than many in home daycare, but worlds cheaper than centers. I want to charge enough that it shows I value my time. Its funny, when I raised my rates (quite significantly) no parents complained which shocked me and they have been more respectful since. Fewer late pickups, they keep their kids out fewer days, they thank me...its like now that I think I am worth more, so do they 
People see $ as a sign of value, even though its not always the case.
People see $ as a sign of value, even though its not always the case.
midaycare 07:46 PM 12-14-2014
Originally Posted by Controlled Chaos:
Wow! If you are offering all that - special teachers etc. you should be charging a minimum of $30 a day. I am in a cheaper area to live, I charge $30 for fulltimers and $35 a day for more part time kiddos. I am more expensive than many in home daycare, but worlds cheaper than centers. I want to charge enough that it shows I value my time. Its funny, when I raised my rates (quite significantly) no parents complained which shocked me and they have been more respectful since. Fewer late pickups, they keep their kids out fewer days, they thank me...its like now that I think I am worth more, so do they People see $ as a sign of value, even though its not always the case.
Well ... Now I'm really convinced I need to raise rates! Wow! If you are offering all that - special teachers etc. you should be charging a minimum of $30 a day. I am in a cheaper area to live, I charge $30 for fulltimers and $35 a day for more part time kiddos. I am more expensive than many in home daycare, but worlds cheaper than centers. I want to charge enough that it shows I value my time. Its funny, when I raised my rates (quite significantly) no parents complained which shocked me and they have been more respectful since. Fewer late pickups, they keep their kids out fewer days, they thank me...its like now that I think I am worth more, so do they
People see $ as a sign of value, even though its not always the case.
Unregistered 10:55 PM 12-14-2014
I charge around $65 to $70 per day (in LA)
daycarediva 03:46 AM 12-15-2014
Originally Posted by midaycare:
I'm having trouble figuring out the standard market. No one advertises on Craigslist here - at least licensed providers. It's pretty much word of mouth or Facebook. But no one lists prices. I would have to go for an interview with another provider to find out, and I really don't want to waste their time. I would be ticked if someone did that to me.
Can you look up what social services (or whatever in your area) pays for child care? That's how I set my rates, they are just above the going rate for FT care for the age groups I accept.I'm having trouble figuring out the standard market. No one advertises on Craigslist here - at least licensed providers. It's pretty much word of mouth or Facebook. But no one lists prices. I would have to go for an interview with another provider to find out, and I really don't want to waste their time. I would be ticked if someone did that to me.
midaycare 04:00 AM 12-15-2014
Originally Posted by daycarediva:
Can you look up what social services (or whatever in your area) pays for child care? That's how I set my rates, they are just above the going rate for FT care for the age groups I accept.
Ah yes, good idea. But how many hours do you base it off of?Can you look up what social services (or whatever in your area) pays for child care? That's how I set my rates, they are just above the going rate for FT care for the age groups I accept.
melilley 06:54 AM 12-15-2014
I charge $140 a week and p/t is $70 for 2 days, $110 for 3 , and $130 for 4. I have 2 p/t children that I make more off of per week compared to 1 f/t child so I don't mind doing p/t care as long as the child adjusts well. I haven't had any problems so far.
Have you gone on the great start website yet? Some providers list what they charge.
Have you gone on the great start website yet? Some providers list what they charge.
momofsix 07:51 AM 12-15-2014
My daughters keep telling me I'm way too low too. They have told me what their profs pay for home daycare that doesn't have any "extras" and it's been a lot higher than what I charge. When I look on craigslist though I seem about average (except for those low cost unlicensed SAHM's).
I charge full time 130/week
4 days 120/week
3 days 100/week
2 days 70/week
1 day 35/week
I charge full time 130/week
4 days 120/week
3 days 100/week
2 days 70/week
1 day 35/week
Blackcat31 08:55 AM 12-15-2014
Originally Posted by midaycare:
My "niche" is that I take the best of a Center and the best of a home daycare and combine the two. I put a lot of money into the start up of the daycare - the dck's have Center-type manipulative and toys. I do a curriculum, have a Spanish teacher come in two times a week, and have a reading specialist work with all of the kids.
Of course, this means I pay a lot more out of my pocket 1 because I pay for the Spanish teacher ($20 an hour) and the reading specialist ($10 an hour). The curriculum is $130 per month, yada yada.
I'm confused too... what is the "best of a center" and the "best of home daycare"? What does that mean... My "niche" is that I take the best of a Center and the best of a home daycare and combine the two. I put a lot of money into the start up of the daycare - the dck's have Center-type manipulative and toys. I do a curriculum, have a Spanish teacher come in two times a week, and have a reading specialist work with all of the kids.
Of course, this means I pay a lot more out of my pocket 1 because I pay for the Spanish teacher ($20 an hour) and the reading specialist ($10 an hour). The curriculum is $130 per month, yada yada.
Also, what are center type manipulative and toys exactly?
I'm not trying to be dense or nitpicking what you write, but I'm always curious when providers say things like that.
As a parent...they have to wonder too..kwim? Wondering if maybe those things were easier for parents to understand or be aware of, they pricing part would fall easily into place.
I understand the extra teachers coming in part though...that makes sense as to your rates needing to match those expenses.
Does that make sense? Like I said, not trying to give you a hard time...just trying to understand better..
midaycare 10:24 AM 12-15-2014
Originally Posted by Blackcat31:
I'm confused too... what is the "best of a center" and the "best of home daycare"? What does that mean...
Also, what are center type manipulative and toys exactly?
I'm not trying to be dense or nitpicking what you write, but I'm always curious when providers say things like that.
As a parent...they have to wonder too..kwim? Wondering if maybe those things were easier for parents to understand or be aware of, they pricing part would fall easily into place.
I understand the extra teachers coming in part though...that makes sense as to your rates needing to match those expenses.
Does that make sense? Like I said, not trying to give you a hard time...just trying to understand better..
I should rephrase to what *I* think is the best parts of a Center and what *I* think are the best parts of a home daycare. I had my ds in both. I've also talked with tons of parents, trying to figure out what they like & dislike about each.I'm confused too... what is the "best of a center" and the "best of home daycare"? What does that mean...
Also, what are center type manipulative and toys exactly?
I'm not trying to be dense or nitpicking what you write, but I'm always curious when providers say things like that.
As a parent...they have to wonder too..kwim? Wondering if maybe those things were easier for parents to understand or be aware of, they pricing part would fall easily into place.
I understand the extra teachers coming in part though...that makes sense as to your rates needing to match those expenses.
Does that make sense? Like I said, not trying to give you a hard time...just trying to understand better..
*In my experience* - please, no one flame me for this, because this is my opinion - I like that centers offer curriculums, a lot of variety of toys, and more experiences in general. I chose home daycare, for the most part, because centers didn't seem to have enough one-on-one attention and I liked ds having a father or mother figure in a house. I have had him with both male and female providers because we moved a lot.
I'm not saying home daycares don't offer toys and centers don't take care of kids - I just run my home daycare a little differently, and that it not just my opinion. That is what the parents tell me. I just had a parent tell me, "You offer all this in a home daycare??!!" So I'm thinking I'm a little different than those around me, since other parents now with me have been to other daycares besides me.
Parents seem to understand. I have it on my website stated like that, and I explain my program and no one's ever been like, "huh?" Everyone has always been like, "Wow! How much for deposit! And by the way, you are super affordable!"
spinnymarie 10:33 AM 12-15-2014
Centers around here are similar, slightly higher at about $50/day. he average rate here is $25/day, but the 'best' home daycares in town charge more like $36/day.
We offer a slightly different schedule, with no payment due for holidays/breaks, but if we were regular full-year we'd be close to $36/day too.
I think $35 sounds totally reasonable for what you are offering in your area.
We offer a slightly different schedule, with no payment due for holidays/breaks, but if we were regular full-year we'd be close to $36/day too.
I think $35 sounds totally reasonable for what you are offering in your area.
Annalee 10:38 AM 12-15-2014
Originally Posted by midaycare:
I should rephrase to what *I* think is the best parts of a Center and what *I* think are the best parts of a home daycare. I had my ds in both. I've also talked with tons of parents, trying to figure out what they like & dislike about each.
*In my experience* - please, no one flame me for this, because this is my opinion - I like that centers offer curriculums, a lot of variety of toys, and more experiences in general. I chose home daycare, for the most part, because centers didn't seem to have enough one-on-one attention and I liked ds having a father or mother figure in a house. I have had him with both male and female providers because we moved a lot.
I'm not saying home daycares don't offer toys and centers don't take care of kids - I just run my home daycare a little differently, and that it not just my opinion. That is what the parents tell me. I just had a parent tell me, "You offer all this in a home daycare??!!" So I'm thinking I'm a little different than those around me, since other parents now with me have been to other daycares besides me.
Parents seem to understand. I have it on my website stated like that, and I explain my program and no one's ever been like, "huh?" Everyone has always been like, "Wow! How much for deposit! And by the way, you are super affordable!"
Home daycares in my area offer cirriculum that is play-based and offer multiple learning centers to enhance the learning environment. The one-on-one adult/child ration is a huge "seller" for me but my record for having children ready for Kindy is also something I and others here are known for....actually, home child care gets a plus-plus for the extra social skills learned being in a mixed age group setting. I worked center for 3 years before beginning my own FCC and I do not prefer center because I do not want to hire persons....Child care is my passion...this business needs providers who want to contribute to children, not someone who is needing a paycheck which is a problem some of my center friends have....and it causes them licensing violations because persons do not show up on time, follow ratios nor treat children per guidelines....I change my room out monthly to meet my themes but I do NOT drill children, they learn through play in my set-up environment! I should rephrase to what *I* think is the best parts of a Center and what *I* think are the best parts of a home daycare. I had my ds in both. I've also talked with tons of parents, trying to figure out what they like & dislike about each.
*In my experience* - please, no one flame me for this, because this is my opinion - I like that centers offer curriculums, a lot of variety of toys, and more experiences in general. I chose home daycare, for the most part, because centers didn't seem to have enough one-on-one attention and I liked ds having a father or mother figure in a house. I have had him with both male and female providers because we moved a lot.
I'm not saying home daycares don't offer toys and centers don't take care of kids - I just run my home daycare a little differently, and that it not just my opinion. That is what the parents tell me. I just had a parent tell me, "You offer all this in a home daycare??!!" So I'm thinking I'm a little different than those around me, since other parents now with me have been to other daycares besides me.
Parents seem to understand. I have it on my website stated like that, and I explain my program and no one's ever been like, "huh?" Everyone has always been like, "Wow! How much for deposit! And by the way, you are super affordable!"
SignMeUp 10:52 AM 12-15-2014
Originally Posted by midaycare:
I should rephrase to what *I* think is the best parts of a Center and what *I* think are the best parts of a home daycare. I had my ds in both. I've also talked with tons of parents, trying to figure out what they like & dislike about each.
*In my experience* - please, no one flame me for this, because this is my opinion - I like that centers offer curriculums, a lot of variety of toys, and more experiences in general. I chose home daycare, for the most part, because centers didn't seem to have enough one-on-one attention and I liked ds having a father or mother figure in a house. I have had him with both male and female providers because we moved a lot.
I'm not saying home daycares don't offer toys and centers don't take care of kids - I just run my home daycare a little differently, and that it not just my opinion. That is what the parents tell me. I just had a parent tell me, "You offer all this in a home daycare??!!" So I'm thinking I'm a little different than those around me, since other parents now with me have been to other daycares besides me.
Parents seem to understand. I have it on my website stated like that, and I explain my program and no one's ever been like, "huh?" Everyone has always been like, "Wow! How much for deposit! And by the way, you are super affordable!"
I get it I should rephrase to what *I* think is the best parts of a Center and what *I* think are the best parts of a home daycare. I had my ds in both. I've also talked with tons of parents, trying to figure out what they like & dislike about each.
*In my experience* - please, no one flame me for this, because this is my opinion - I like that centers offer curriculums, a lot of variety of toys, and more experiences in general. I chose home daycare, for the most part, because centers didn't seem to have enough one-on-one attention and I liked ds having a father or mother figure in a house. I have had him with both male and female providers because we moved a lot.
I'm not saying home daycares don't offer toys and centers don't take care of kids - I just run my home daycare a little differently, and that it not just my opinion. That is what the parents tell me. I just had a parent tell me, "You offer all this in a home daycare??!!" So I'm thinking I'm a little different than those around me, since other parents now with me have been to other daycares besides me.
Parents seem to understand. I have it on my website stated like that, and I explain my program and no one's ever been like, "huh?" Everyone has always been like, "Wow! How much for deposit! And by the way, you are super affordable!"
One of the things parents commonly tell me is that my setting provides the best parts of home and preschool Quite similar
SignMeUp 10:58 AM 12-15-2014
Originally Posted by Annalee:
Home daycares in my area offer cirriculum that is play-based and offer multiple learning centers to enhance the learning environment. The one-on-one adult/child ration is a huge "seller" for me but my record for having children ready for Kindy is also something I and others here are known for....actually, home child care gets a plus-plus for the extra social skills learned being in a mixed age group setting. I worked center for 3 years before beginning my own FCC and I do not prefer center because I do not want to hire persons....Child care is my passion...this business needs providers who want to contribute to children, not someone who is needing a paycheck which is a problem some of my center friends have....and it causes them licensing violations because persons do not show up on time, follow ratios nor treat children per guidelines....I change my room out monthly to meet my themes but I do NOT drill children, they learn through play in my set-up environment!
Some of what you said addresses what I believe happens here too. Preschoolers understand, when they look at the toddlers, that not long ago that behavior ('scribbling', not understanding how to share, etc.) was their behavior. Home daycares in my area offer cirriculum that is play-based and offer multiple learning centers to enhance the learning environment. The one-on-one adult/child ration is a huge "seller" for me but my record for having children ready for Kindy is also something I and others here are known for....actually, home child care gets a plus-plus for the extra social skills learned being in a mixed age group setting. I worked center for 3 years before beginning my own FCC and I do not prefer center because I do not want to hire persons....Child care is my passion...this business needs providers who want to contribute to children, not someone who is needing a paycheck which is a problem some of my center friends have....and it causes them licensing violations because persons do not show up on time, follow ratios nor treat children per guidelines....I change my room out monthly to meet my themes but I do NOT drill children, they learn through play in my set-up environment!
They seem to develop an understanding that not everyone is at the same stage, and that translates well to classroom social skills, where some children's skills, in various areas, are more developed than others.
It also works well when children with special needs are in the classroom, as well as when they are here in our setting. They have caring & tolerance for, instead of disdain for, people who are not functioning right at their level.
midaycare 11:04 AM 12-15-2014
Originally Posted by SignMeUp:
Some of what you said addresses what I believe happens here too. Preschoolers understand, when they look at the toddlers, that not long ago that behavior ('scribbling', not understanding how to share, etc.) was their behavior.
They seem to develop an understanding that not everyone is at the same stage, and that translates well to classroom social skills, where some children's skills, in various areas, are more developed than others.
It also works well when children with special needs are in the classroom, as well as when they are here in our setting. They have caring & tolerance for, instead of disdain for, people who are not functioning right at their level.
Well said Some of what you said addresses what I believe happens here too. Preschoolers understand, when they look at the toddlers, that not long ago that behavior ('scribbling', not understanding how to share, etc.) was their behavior.
They seem to develop an understanding that not everyone is at the same stage, and that translates well to classroom social skills, where some children's skills, in various areas, are more developed than others.
It also works well when children with special needs are in the classroom, as well as when they are here in our setting. They have caring & tolerance for, instead of disdain for, people who are not functioning right at their level.
midaycare 11:05 AM 12-15-2014
Originally Posted by SignMeUp:
I get it One of the things parents commonly tell me is that my setting provides the best parts of home and preschool Quite similar
Hooray! I'm glad someone gets me I get it
One of the things parents commonly tell me is that my setting provides the best parts of home and preschool Quite similar
Annalee 11:06 AM 12-15-2014
Originally Posted by SignMeUp:
Some of what you said addresses what I believe happens here too. Preschoolers understand, when they look at the toddlers, that not long ago that behavior ('scribbling', not understanding how to share, etc.) was their behavior.
They seem to develop an understanding that not everyone is at the same stage, and that translates well to classroom social skills, where some children's skills, in various areas, are more developed than others.
It also works well when children with special needs are in the classroom, as well as when they are here in our setting. They have caring & tolerance for, instead of disdain for, people who are not functioning right at their level.
Yes, and one of the compliments I get is when kindy teachers tell me they know a child from my fcc because the child listens and follows directions....Some of what you said addresses what I believe happens here too. Preschoolers understand, when they look at the toddlers, that not long ago that behavior ('scribbling', not understanding how to share, etc.) was their behavior.
They seem to develop an understanding that not everyone is at the same stage, and that translates well to classroom social skills, where some children's skills, in various areas, are more developed than others.
It also works well when children with special needs are in the classroom, as well as when they are here in our setting. They have caring & tolerance for, instead of disdain for, people who are not functioning right at their level.
SignMeUp 11:13 AM 12-15-2014
Originally Posted by Annalee:
Yes, and one of the compliments I get is when kindy teachers tell me they know a child from my fcc because the child listens and follows directions....
So nice Yes, and one of the compliments I get is when kindy teachers tell me they know a child from my fcc because the child listens and follows directions....
When my child was in school, I volunteered there a half day each week. Once as I walked through the hallway, two teachers that I didn't know came up to me and asked if a particular child had attended my child care. She had
Apparently some of them had a game going, of guessing which kids came from my house
Blackcat31 11:13 AM 12-15-2014
Originally Posted by midaycare:
Hooray! I'm glad someone gets me
It's not that I don't "get you", I was just looking for more explanation as to what you meant so I could "get you" Hooray! I'm glad someone gets me
I didn't understand what you meant by saying "center type manipulative and toys".... I was looking for specific examples of what those types of toys were.
I also commented on what you meant by "best of centers" and "best of home day cares"... again, looking for specific examples or further clarification on what that meant. (I was thinking, maybe parents were also not understanding)
You posted in return, but didn't really answer what that means but it's all good because you also mentioned your parents tell you they understand and that's really all that matters. I don't use your services so it's okay that I don't understand.
In no way, did I mean to "flame you" or nitpick you.... I apologize if it came across that way, I just read your initial post as needing a way to figure out what to charge because of the extra's you offer but I must have misunderstood.
Annalee 11:16 AM 12-15-2014
Originally Posted by SignMeUp:
So nice
When my child was in school, I volunteered there a half day each week. Once as I walked through the hallway, two teachers that I didn't know came up to me and asked if a particular child had attended my child care. She had
Apparently some of them had a game going, of guessing which kids came from my house
So nice
When my child was in school, I volunteered there a half day each week. Once as I walked through the hallway, two teachers that I didn't know came up to me and asked if a particular child had attended my child care. She had
Apparently some of them had a game going, of guessing which kids came from my house
originalkat 12:27 PM 12-15-2014
Originally Posted by SignMeUp:
I get it One of the things parents commonly tell me is that my setting provides the best parts of home and preschool Quite similar
I get it
One of the things parents commonly tell me is that my setting provides the best parts of home and preschool Quite similar I get it too. I also tell this to parents when they tour. They all "get it". Parents these days feel like they are doing their child a disservice if they do not put them in "preschool". We all know a home-like play based program is exactly what kids need to be prepared for KG. But I use this "Best of Preschool, Best of Home Based" too when selling parents on my program. My list of Best Of's are:
Preschool
Curriculum
Classroom Grade materials, furniture etc... rather than hand me downs
Newsletters
Events like Christmas Programs, Halloween Carnival, Graduation Ceremony etc...
Home-Based
Better Communication
Continuity of Care
Smaller Group/Ind. Attention
Warm and Loving Environment
**This is not to say that there aren't homes that offer a curriculum/newsletters and centers that provide a warm/loving environment. But I just choose to draw attention to what the "Best Of's" are in my experience of working in center-based care for 10 years and home-based for 7 yrs. I think this is what the OP was getting at.
midaycare 12:54 PM 12-15-2014
Originally Posted by originalkat:
I get it too. I also tell this to parents when they tour. They all "get it". Parents these days feel like they are doing their child a disservice if they do not put them in "preschool". We all know a home-like play based program is exactly what kids need to be prepared for KG. But I use this "Best of Preschool, Best of Home Based" too when selling parents on my program.
My list of Best Of's are:
Preschool
Curriculum
Classroom Grade materials, furniture etc... rather than hand me downs
Newsletters
Events like Christmas Programs, Halloween Carnival, Graduation Ceremony etc...
Home-Based
Better Communication
Continuity of Care
Smaller Group/Ind. Attention
Warm and Loving Environment
**This is not to say that there aren't homes that offer a curriculum/newsletters and centers that provide a warm/loving environment. But I just choose to draw attention to what the "Best Of's" are in my experience of working in center-based care for 10 years and home-based for 7 yrs. I think this is what the OP was getting at.
This is exactly what I meant. I'm terrible with words sometimes!!! I get it too. I also tell this to parents when they tour. They all "get it". Parents these days feel like they are doing their child a disservice if they do not put them in "preschool". We all know a home-like play based program is exactly what kids need to be prepared for KG. But I use this "Best of Preschool, Best of Home Based" too when selling parents on my program. My list of Best Of's are:
Preschool
Curriculum
Classroom Grade materials, furniture etc... rather than hand me downs
Newsletters
Events like Christmas Programs, Halloween Carnival, Graduation Ceremony etc...
Home-Based
Better Communication
Continuity of Care
Smaller Group/Ind. Attention
Warm and Loving Environment
**This is not to say that there aren't homes that offer a curriculum/newsletters and centers that provide a warm/loving environment. But I just choose to draw attention to what the "Best Of's" are in my experience of working in center-based care for 10 years and home-based for 7 yrs. I think this is what the OP was getting at.
Annalee 02:06 PM 12-15-2014
Originally Posted by midaycare:
This is exactly what I meant. I'm terrible with words sometimes!!!
But I have classroom grade materials, too....my furniture is NOT hand-me-downs and I have centers set up with child-sized furniture all around...so I think what you are saying is what you have perceived and does happen in your area.....but I have many materials that even a Kindergarten classroom has. My file folder games, manipulatives, learning materials are set up for easy access to my children....so I see what you are saying for your area, but home daycares here are set up in the ways I am explaining my home daycare is....we get report cards and they literally count our science, math, literacy, soft, etc. materials and at least 75% of our seating has to be geared toward the size of the children...if we don't comply with this it affects our report card. We have to have at least 2 dramatic play areas so on and so on and so on for my state or your report card takes a hit! We also have to provider monthly newsletters, have a parent resource center with board, and that goes on and on as well This is exactly what I meant. I'm terrible with words sometimes!!!
midaycare 02:22 PM 12-15-2014
Originally Posted by Annalee:
But I have classroom grade materials, too....my furniture is NOT hand-me-downs and I have centers set up with child-sized furniture all around...so I think what you are saying is what you have perceived and does happen in your area.....but I have many materials that even a Kindergarten classroom has. My file folder games, manipulatives, learning materials are set up for easy access to my children....so I see what you are saying for your area, but home daycares here are set up in the ways I am explaining my home daycare is....we get report cards and they literally count our science, math, literacy, soft, etc. materials and at least 75% of our seating has to be geared toward the size of the children...if we don't comply with this it affects our report card. We have to have at least 2 dramatic play areas so on and so on and so on for my state or your report card takes a hit! We also have to provider monthly newsletters, have a parent resource center with board, and that goes on and on as well
I'm not saying I'm better or worse than any other home daycare. If it comes off that way, I apologize. But I have classroom grade materials, too....my furniture is NOT hand-me-downs and I have centers set up with child-sized furniture all around...so I think what you are saying is what you have perceived and does happen in your area.....but I have many materials that even a Kindergarten classroom has. My file folder games, manipulatives, learning materials are set up for easy access to my children....so I see what you are saying for your area, but home daycares here are set up in the ways I am explaining my home daycare is....we get report cards and they literally count our science, math, literacy, soft, etc. materials and at least 75% of our seating has to be geared toward the size of the children...if we don't comply with this it affects our report card. We have to have at least 2 dramatic play areas so on and so on and so on for my state or your report card takes a hit! We also have to provider monthly newsletters, have a parent resource center with board, and that goes on and on as well
There are a lot of unlicensed dc's here, and this is a license-only state. Most of the providers around me do not offer what I do, because if parents want that ... they go to centers.
So in this area I'm kind of unique. In other areas I would probably be a dime a dozen. And I'm not the right fit for everyone, either.
Annalee 02:30 PM 12-15-2014
Originally Posted by midaycare:
I'm not saying I'm better or worse than any other home daycare. If it comes off that way, I apologize.
There are a lot of unlicensed dc's here, and this is a license-only state. Most of the providers around me do not offer what I do, because if parents want that ... they go to centers.
So in this area I'm kind of unique. In other areas I would probably be a dime a dozen. And I'm not the right fit for everyone, either.
I don't feel like you are saying you are better at allI'm not saying I'm better or worse than any other home daycare. If it comes off that way, I apologize.
There are a lot of unlicensed dc's here, and this is a license-only state. Most of the providers around me do not offer what I do, because if parents want that ... they go to centers.
So in this area I'm kind of unique. In other areas I would probably be a dime a dozen. And I'm not the right fit for everyone, either.
I just wanted to say that what you are saying is only valid in your area because on top of licensing guidelines here center gets a report card on ECERS and homes are governed by FCCERS-R...you do not have to participate and you can choose to be a "no star" but I choose to be the best I can
midaycare 02:37 PM 12-15-2014
Originally Posted by Annalee:
I don't feel like you are saying you are better at all I just wanted to say that what you are saying is only valid in your area because on top of licensing guidelines here center gets a report card on ECERS and homes are governed by FCCERS-R...you do not have to participate and you can choose to be a "no star" but I choose to be the best I can
Is that similar to QRIS? I'm going through that myself.I don't feel like you are saying you are better at all
I just wanted to say that what you are saying is only valid in your area because on top of licensing guidelines here center gets a report card on ECERS and homes are governed by FCCERS-R...you do not have to participate and you can choose to be a "no star" but I choose to be the best I can
Annalee 02:51 PM 12-15-2014
Originally Posted by midaycare:
Is that similar to QRIS? I'm going through that myself.
Yep and the annual mandated assessment is written in law so that every FCC daycare be assessed with FCCERS-R..You can choose not to participate but you still have to go through the process????? Crazy!!!! I have had a report card since 2002. Is that similar to QRIS? I'm going through that myself.
midaycare 04:51 PM 12-15-2014
Originally Posted by Annalee:
Yep and the annual mandated assessment is written in law so that every FCC daycare be assessed with FCCERS-R..You can choose not to participate but you still have to go through the process????? Crazy!!!! I have had a report card since 2002.
Yep and the annual mandated assessment is written in law so that every FCC daycare be assessed with FCCERS-R..You can choose not to participate but you still have to go through the process????? Crazy!!!! I have had a report card since 2002.
It's voluntary here. I think I read a stat that out of almost 9,000 home daycares, less than 2,000 have chosen to do QRIS. It's a major pain but I'm doing it now in case it becomes mandatory.
Annalee 06:21 PM 12-15-2014
Originally Posted by midaycare:
It's voluntary here. I think I read a stat that out of almost 9,000 home daycares, less than 2,000 have chosen to do QRIS. It's a major pain but I'm doing it now in case it becomes mandatory.
If you choose not to participate here they put N/P on your report card but the funny thing is your report card is still listed online when you click on the N/P???? so if the world can see what you scored why N/P....the whole system is crazy...I do believe in accountability for providers but I do not agree with how our state has set it up...whoever started this knew what they were doing by putting it into law....it is hard battling legislation because all they hear is "quality child care"....Well, I was providing quality child care before the report card.....I do NOT need QRIS to validate what I do! I have been NAFCC Accredited twice, have a CDA, and an AS in earlychildhood but on a given day can FAIL my states annual assessment which automatically gives you a zero....something is wrong with that...I have never failed it, but I know of providers with my same credentials who have failed......something is not set up right??? It's voluntary here. I think I read a stat that out of almost 9,000 home daycares, less than 2,000 have chosen to do QRIS. It's a major pain but I'm doing it now in case it becomes mandatory.