Holding a Spot

[Patches]

So I am full right now and have a waiting list but I am hiring an assistant soon but that will only open 2 spots. So I had someone call me wanting info on the daycare for her 3 1/2 yo son which would be perfect for my other 3 1/2 dcb that has nobody his age toplay with. Well the thing is she's pregnant and the baby would be old enogh to start in August. She askwed me if the baby could come then so the kids would go to the same place. I told her I really can't be sure because I would like to fill up my spots as soon as possible but a lot can happen from now til then. Obviously, nothing is set in stone yet but I was thinking if she contacts me again and shows interest in enrolling mybe I can mention a holding fee. I don't know how much to charge or if I should even hold a spot that long. What do you guys think?

[blandino]

So I am full right now and have a waiting list but I am hiring an assistant soon but that will only open 2 spots. So I had someone call me wanting info on the daycare for her 3 1/2 yo son which would be perfect for my other 3 1/2 dcb that has nobody his age toplay with. Well the thing is she's pregnant and the baby would be old enogh to start in August. She askwed me if the baby could come then so the kids would go to the same place. I told her I really can't be sure because I would like to fill up my spots as soon as possible but a lot can happen from now til then. Obviously, nothing is set in stone yet but I was thinking if she contacts me again and shows interest in enrolling mybe I can mention a holding fee. I don't know how much to charge or if I should even hold a spot that long. What do you guys think?

I SO struggle with this. Even a spot holding fee is less than your full-time fee, so you would still be losing money by not filling the spot.

People don't like to hear it, but I will only hold a spot for 2 weeks (with a deposit). In cases like this I tell them to keep in contact with me about start times and I will keep them updated on my openings and if someone is looking to take the position, I will let them know and they will have first choice to take it ( and start paying for it at the full time rate).

We have just had to many incidences where we hold a spot, only to have the parent back out - or only stay for a few weeks, after holding a spot for a few months.