the going rate

I'm a member of a few different online childcare provider groups.  Occasionally, someone asks for advice on how to increase her rates.  Without exception, each time I have seen a provider ask for advice she defends herself with this line: "local centers are charging X and I will still be below that."

Why is that the case?  Shouldn't it be the opposite? 

We are able to take a very limited number of children and in a lot of cases, provide a much higher quality of care for them.  I don't think parents opt for home providers in most cases because of the slightly lower rate.  I think it's because for most children, it is a much healthier happier place for them to grow and develop.

Most importantly, they can form a strong bond with ONE person who will be providing consistent and predictable care for them. This provides the stability and security they need.  Kids in our care are exposed to fewer germs.  In many cases, they have opportunity to personalize the schedule to some degree to fit their needs for the day.   Parents have more opportunity for communication.  Parents can work more effectively with a provider to provide consistancy in care patterns.  This is helpful when it comes to transitions like potty training or behavior challenges.

When a parent finds someone with the right qualifications who is a good fit with their family, the family childcare provider is actually priceless. 

Give yourselves a pat on the back today.  You deserve it!

one man's trash...

Pre-math activity.  ADULT SUPERVISION IS REQUIRED.

If you ever wonder what to do with all those lids that can not be recycled easily (because they are not made from #1 or #2) look no further.  They can be used to make a pre-math sorting and pattern toy that will bring hours of discovery to your preschoolers.

Wash and set aside plastic lids in an empty canister until you have a nice assortment.  You will need to drill a hole in the center of all the lids.(My ADHD teen  helped with this part.  Funny how power tools help him keep his focus.)  When you are finished you can put the lids back in the canister for convenient storage.  The only thing you need to purchase is a package of wooden dowels from Walmart. 

Kids in my group from 34 months to age 7 have all enjoyed this immensely.  They have both sorted into piles and made patterns on the dowels by color, by size, and by type.   The lids can also be used with plastic lacing similar to the way you use large wooden beads.