Hi!
I need some information before I talk to my in-home provider......
I currently send 1 child (3yo) 3 days a week for 8.25 hours a week (7:45-4)(1-2 days a week during summer, and some extra time off during easter and Christmas)to an in-home provider (non-liscensed...and we are unable to claim on taxes). I provide meals, snacks, drinks (on a daily basis), as well as equipment (highchair, carseat, pack n play, toys, books, etc.) to keep there. She occasionally does her errands (but I like to know where/when they are going), and she picks up, and occasionally drops off at preschool 1 day a week. I pay $100 a week, through-out the year (even during the summers where he is only there a max of 2 days a week) I get 1 week that we can go on vacation for no pay (she usually schedules her vaca for the same time...works great!)
I am expecting another, and want to know what the going rate is for 2 kids in-home. My son LOVES going there, and he is well loved, but they rarely do any activities/crafts/outside type stuff, which is 1 reason (not the only) why he is in preschool. I think that $200 a week for 2 kids(over 10,000 tax free!) is a lot of money when I provide stuff, and no real additional activities are provided. I dread having this conversation.....
We are trying to decide if me being a SAHM is an option, or if she will reduce payments with 2, so that I can afford to keep them there (I was thinking $150 a week for 51 weeks(7640 a year tax free)....is this unreasonable? keep in mind 2.5 months its only 2 days a week), or look for a different provider.
Thanks for your input!
considering that you provide everything that would be needed and you don't get a tax break on it i think you are paying more than you should. I have day care that i pay $150 a week for 1 child and not only do i not have to provide everything, i get to claim it on my taxes. so there are other options.. you just have to ask around.
I think that's pretty reasonable, all factors considered. You didn't mention if she watches any other child(ren) as well. Keep in mind that legally, she can only watch 3 children (including her own) OR her own and one other family with her not being licensed. The claiming on taxes is a whole other issue. But I just wanted to make sure you know that rule with her not being licensed on how many she can have in her home. With a licensed home care provider, you would probably get more activities planned for your child and equipment and food provided, everybody offers different things. Sounds like you are generally happy with the situation, but there are all kinds of options out there if you do pursue looking around. YWCA helps families to find child care and you could also contact a home child care association in your area for info or referrals. Best wishes to you with your growing family!
I have worked with licensed and un-licensed daycare providers, and since you aren't claiming it, you tend to pay less over the ones that would. That being said here's what I know..
Usually it's about $30 a day for one child. (give or take a few dollars based on age). So you paying $100 for weeks with 3 days is about right. (a bit on the HIGH end, but) Though with all those, I have always had snacks and lunch provided. She's really making out with you sending all that and giving equipment.
For the second one, you usually get $5 off a day, approx. So that would be $55 a day - $165 for three days. Again, that's with lunch and snacks and equipment being provided. I would think that if you wanted a CONSISTENT amount for her to get even in the summer, I would say $150 would be generous given she gets an extra day off in the summer.
Most sitter's ask that you guarantee a certain number of days.. so I can understand paying her the same in the summer, but then balance it out with an adequate amount for winter...?!
Just me.
Good luck, money talks are NEVER easy.
I am a daycare provider. I watch a little girl 3 days a week similar hours and charge $100 wk. I provide all equipment, snacks and breakfast. She provides lunch, but not because I ask her to. I normally provide all meals and snacks. I would at least talk to her about providing meals. Most providers won't take a child 2 days a week and if they do most have a set part-time rate, usually for 3 days.
Does she watch other children? If not, consider yourself lucky. The value of a small daycare where your child is loved is far greater than the discount you may get going somewhere else.
I am a sahm of 2 kids(g-5,b-4)and I babysit 1 other kid(b-5). $100 a week for 3 days to me seems about right. But it does seem a lot specially if you're providing meals, snacks, drinks, toys and etc. From 7 am to 6 pm I charge 35 a day for 1 kid and 40 a day for 2 which includes breakfast, lunch and snacks. I would definitely have a conversation with your provider. It's really generous of you to provide her with things on a daily basis but being that she is your provider she should really be more prepared to take on her role. If you are planning on keeping her you shouldn't have to provide all these snacks and etc. to her. She has to be the one to provide all of this. I hope everything works out for you and congrats on your new coming child.
Sincerely,
M.
I would watch both of your kids for you for $175-200 a week and provide them with meals. That is the cheapest you will find because I have been looking and even people that aren't licensed charge over $200. This is a little crazy if you ask me because you're just working to pay daycare. That's crazy to expect you to bring all the food and what not. If it's formula or special baby food that would be a good idea to bring, but normal food I would provide. I am a stay at home mom of two, and have lots of experience watching other children. I went to school for a year at Harper before I had my daughter and wanted to become a teacher in Early Childhood. I think this would be a great opportunity because I love crafts and activities and if I were to watch them here we have a park that is right at the end of the street, which is litterally no more than 500 feet away. Well, if you are interested please give me a call, I'd love to hear from you. thanks. JENN
