Interview Way Before Needing Care...

[WImom]

I have someone that emailed me that is looking for a new childcare for their child. I only do preschool age (2-5y). The child won't be 2 until end of September but she wants to interview now hoping there will still be a space.

I'm thinking that is a waste of my time? Have you done interview's that far in advance before? Should I tell her I can contact her in July/August and we can do an interview then?

[SandeeAR]

I would interview. However, they would be told they only way to hold a spot until September would be to pay 1/2 the regular fee monthly, in advance, until care began. This would be non refundable, if they decided to not use you.

[Stacy214]

I accept infants and have had interviews with parents who were 3 and 4 months pregnant ...I think they are just getting a head start (not a bad thing) and want to make sure they do their homework.
What if she chooses you? Do you have a fee for that spot? I am always iffy about holding spots and who knows if I will have a spot and when....idk. I see what your saying, I'll be interested in seeing other responses.

[JenNJ]

I only interview if I have an open space or anticipate one with a definite date. Otherwise its a time waster.

[DBug]

I've done that before -- a family wanted a spot about 8 months out. Before the interview, I gave them all the details about reserving a spot. In my case, I charge half-rate for the spot and it's non-refundable with a cancellation fee, if they decide they don't want the spot after all. At the interview, I went through the reservation contract with them again, and they were happy with it. The little guy ended up starting early and he's still coming. The parents are awesome too -- they're the ones that will bring me my Timmies in the morning .

On the other hand, if you don't have a spot available right now for this family to reserve, I wouldn't go ahead with the interview. I would just tell them I'd put them on the waiting list and notify them when/if a spot opens. At that point, they can come for an interview.

[lil angels]

Yep if I know that I will have the spot I will and then if they decide to go with it I will have them pay first week and that is their deposit that is non refundable. I do not do the interview if I am not sure if I will have the spot waste of both our time.

[Abigail]

I can understand interviewing while pregnant because it's one less thing to worry about. I wouldn't want to interview more than 3 months in advance if the child is already here and they don't need care until then. You have no idea if the child will be a good fit 3/4 a year down the road, so I wouldn't waste my time with an interview now and then feel obligated to decide later if the child isn't a good fit.