Daycare Parents as References?

[Unregistered]

I have a BA and I'm considering going to work in the real world. But, I've been doing daycare for a long time so my only references would be daycare parents.
Problem: they don't know I'm looking for a different job.

What should I do?

[Thriftylady]

Are you friends with any other providers you could use?

[Crazy8]

do you have any former clients you can use?

[Alwaysgreener]

Real world?

[Blackcat31]

I have a BA and I'm considering going to work in the real world. But, I've been doing daycare for a long time so my only references would be daycare parents.
Problem: they don't know I'm looking for a different job.

What should I do?

Why would daycare parents be references?
You don't work for them so they certainly aren't employee/employer references.

I would provide personal references and simply explain to potential employers that you've been SELF-employed for the past X amount of years. I don't see why that wouldn't be understandable and/or acceptable.

[Play Care]

Real world?

My thoughts exactly.

But Anyhoo - as a PROFESSIONAL, I would not use clients as references. That implies they are your boss/supervisor and can give a professional reference. Instead I would use other ECE colleagues, those who supervise my volunteer/charity work, former employers (even if it's been years)etc.

On a side note, whenever you leave employment you should ask for a reference letter from your supervisor. This can be kept with your resume.