are my rates too high?

[Nickel]

I was charging $125/week for full time care, but was having a really hard time getting parents. So i switched to $100/week. Knowing i can eventually raise the rate. There are a lot o illegal daycares in my area. But my question is about pt care. I was charging $75/week for pt. But i was looking at local moms day out programs. They are anywhere from 9-15 hours a week and they are charging $135-150 a month! So should i lower my part time rates? Do you think they are too high? The local daycares dont offer pt care so i cant call and ask their rates. I dont know what to do but at this point less money is better than no money

I could really use some suggestions please!!!

[wahmof3]

I think you need to do what is best for you. If you really need the $ then lower your rate to be competitive, but NEVER sell yourself short.

I would never take less than $75 week for part time. My PT hours are less than 20 hours per week and can only be the same 2 days per week. My PT is pretty strict bc I would rather have the full time.

I ALWAYS sell my program as having a quality focus meaning I charge more than the illegal programs but the DCK's get a higher quality of care.

just my 2 cents

[Sunshine]

I would never go below $125 a week for full time care. The amount of money you make, needs to be worth what you go through to make it. Also, if you are anything like me, you have ongoing expenses that need to be considered, such as food, educational supplies, art supplies, etc.

Part time care is hard, especially if you are caring for older children because parents expect to pay less as the child gets older, even though we have more expenses


I would stress that you are a certified provider and have passed background checks, home inspections, etc. (If that is the case.) Make sure the parents know just how much they are getting for their money and why you are the better choice.