Welcome To The Funny Farm

Today's post is intended for any providers who are just starting out. I thought it pertinent to blog specifically for any new provider who is not familiar yet with the men in white coats who drive the windowless white van. You should all be aware of these people because in the world of home daycare they are most definitely an occupational hazard. And if you are a provider who has not yet had the luxury of the ride in that padded, cozy van while giving yourself a big ole bear hug then you haven't been in business long enough.


My sister is a newbie to home daycare. She decided, after throwing in the towel at her "real" job that she would like to take a ride on the wild side and see all the sites and scenes that we seasoned home daycare providers have visited many times over. She too wants to visit Funky Town, take a ride in the white van, and feed the animals at the Funny Farm one day. And don't worry, Sis, you'll get your chance.


After sending her my contract and giving her some tips on setting up her daycare room I was quick to find two brain cells to rub together to mentor her on some important aspects of the interview and securing her first family. I reminded her that the number one rule of home daycare is; YOUR BUSINESS - YOUR RULES. I reminded her to set her own hours, fees, policies, and payment schedule. I reminded her that her fees are her fees and that they are not negotiable. I was also quick to inform her that it's all in the wording. Some examples of typical questions and comments by parents when interviewing:

Why did you choose to open a home daycare?

The wrong answer - I got tired of waking up at unGodly hours to go to a
job where I got crapped on all day by people who knew less and made more more money than I did. So, I thought, heck, babysitting some kids sounds good.

The correct answer - Operating a home daycare has been a life long
dream of mine. There is nothing more satisfying than watching a child grow and develop and know that you were instrumental in their become an adult.

Will you give me a sibling discount?

The wrong answer - Yeah, sure, because Wal-mart gives me a discount on the mountains of food your kid is gonna eat. Yeah, nice try.

The correct answer - I'm sorry but maintaining a realistic income
is important to my being able to continue care for your children. Therefore my fees reflect what is necessary to both sustain my own family and offer your children a quality program.

I only get a few sick days at work each year. I can't stay home with my kids when they are sick.

The wrong response - Look lady, I'm not following your kid around
with a bucket, a box of kleenex and a bottle of Lysol all day. I'm not a nurse, I'm a daycare provider.

The correct response - My daycare is a well child facility. Keeping
your sick child at home ensures that we keep illness at bay and prevent all the children from becoming sick. If all parents keep their sick children home it will, in fact, cut down on the number of days you will need to take off from work.

What if I don't want to send my kids. I don't have to pay for that day, right?

The wrong answer - Nope, go ahead, keep 'em home. It's not like I
have a mortgage to pay too.

The correct answer - Payment is expected for every day regardless
of attendance. This ensures that your child has a guaranteed spot for their use when needed. My income also requires that I have committed families who value the quality of care and are willing to pay for that quality and availability.

Well, we'll call you if we decide to send our kids to you, okay?

The wrong answer - Sure, whenever you're ready. I'll be sitting by
the phone waiting for your call.

The correct answer - I do have other families interviewing
for the spot. Should you wish to have your children in my care I would suggest you get back to me as soon as possible to ensure the spot is still available for your use. Before a spot is considered taken I will require a signed contract and a deposit.

If you can nail the above specifics in the interview you are well on your way to a successful daycare business. Remember, always be polite but assertive. Make it known that this is your business. You are a professional who has done her homework, has expectations and is not desperate. Because daycare parents can smell desperation a mile away.


Good luck to my sister and any other ladies out there ready to take on the challenge of home daycare. I wish you the best of luck. And watch out for that white van!











For concerns, advice or suggestions I welcome your email at judytrickett@yahoo.ca