Question for Daycare owners! Do you require a deposit to hold a spot?

Question

I have a daycare and this lady called me the other day and asked me to hold a spot for her. I am new at this and was unsure of what to tell her. This one only wants me to wait a month but this other lady called and she wants me to hold a spot until December. This is a little long to hold a spot without pay. I was just wondering if you coud give me any advice. Thanks!!

Answer 1

Your Welcome

Answer 2

I would not hold a spot for this woman until December. That is unreasonable for her to ask that of you. You are running a business and in order for your business to be profitable, you need the money coming in now, not in December.

I guess it really depends on your set up. Are you comfortable enough financially to simply take a deposit from her and then keep that spot available until then?

I think if I were in your shoes, I would just tell her that you are sorry but that is too long to hold a spot open, but you welcome her to call back say in November to see if there is going to be a vacancy in your facility then. If she does call in November, request a deposit then.

I would also request a deposit for the other person that called looking for your service next month. That way you are covered to some extent if they decide not to use you as a childcare provider. Hope this helps!

Answer 3

why do u ask

Answer 4

waiting until december no....one month that's not so bad.  When my sister goes on vaction she still has to pay as if her kids are going to day care or she looses her spot.

Answer 5

You should collect a deposit from the lady who wants you to wait a month and give her a deadline as to when her child will start.  If she doesn't show, then the deposit is forfeited.  If she does, then you can put the deposit toward the care.  Put this in writing and make it clear that there are NO EXTENSIONS!

As for the woman who wants you to hold a spot until December, well, that's too long to hold a spot.  An option might be that you keep her number and if someone else wants to enroll their child with you, then you call her and let her know.  If she really wants you, then she will have to pay for the care even if she isn't there.  It is a business and you would lose revenue if someone wants to hire you in October and you wait two months until December for her.