Bigger Daycare?

[Blackcat31]

For what it's worth, I think the secret to having more kids is to have them within the same age range so everyone can enjoy one activity at a time.

I agree to a point.

I have 12 kids every day and they rarely do the same activity all at the same time.

My age range is 7 months to 5.4 yrs old.

I think the secret to more kids is having enough activities/equipment to meet each age group's needs.

The days I am at max capacity run much smoother than the days I have only a few kids here. I don't know why exactly but that's been my experience so far.

[daycarediva]

I am licensed for 6 under 5years. 2 can be under 2 but I rarely take them, so no worries there.

I am full with a waiting list and have considered going to group- licensed for 12 under 5 years BUT I would need a FT assistant, my insurance would almost double, I would be required to pay workers comp AND state unemployment ins, plus would have to match the taxes for my employee. Even if I paid them minimum wage, the first 4/6 kids income would go DIRECTLY the employee/ins/taxes and the other 2 would be additional income. I would HAVE to stay at capacity for it to be cost effective in the long run.

Short term- I would have to purchase double my supplies. I only have a 6 kid table, etc.

The reliability of staff is a concern. My assistant/sub flaked on me already. I am a VERY reliable person and I couldn't hack someone calling in for the sniffles.

Then there is the time issue- I work 60 hours/week almost. I would NEED someone here AT LEAST 45 IF I could get later drop offs and earlier picks ups. Then that's OT for my employee.

Food- I am tier 2. It doesn't come CLOSE to covering the cost of food.

It isn't worth the hassle!

[rebekki78]

I am currently licensed for 6, but keep it in the back of my mind that someday I might want to be licensed for 12.

I'm trying to figure out if it is worth it. By the time I add in paying an assistant, It seems like the cost equals the same as if I only had 6 kids.

Is anyone here registered for 12 kids? Do you make more money?

My biggest problem has been a consistent assistant who shows up on time and actually makes it here when scheduled, and I am only licensed for 6! People are so unreliable.

[rebekki78]

It does seem when I worked the numbers out that I would come out financially no better than I am now. I'm glad to hear I'm not crazy and that's about right. And yes - hiring an assistant - that could be a nightmare.

For me, it has been. But if you can find the "right" person that it could be so wonderful! Potentially anyways. There is so much to weigh on the decision. I wish you luck!

[DaveA]

There's good points to each. I wouldn't grow past my current capacity (6) because a big part of my program involves going places and want to be able to fit everyone in my minivan. This way I can make the trips I want without having to coordinate another driver.

Plus if I got an assistant I doubt I would find another guy, and there's too many gossipy little old ladies in my subdivision. I'd be explaining myself to neighbors forever.::