Charge for Meals or More Per Hour

[debbie]

Hi Everyone,

I've been advised by my Group Area Childminder that there are now only a few childminders in my area as more and more are finishing (not because they don't like it or can't get work but because their children have gone back to school and they have decided to go and try other things like working in pre-schools etc). The minders I have spoken to in the area are more or less full and turning people away, so my question is do I charge for meals or charge a higher rate per hour (most other minders include food in)? Just thought as there is a market out there but then again don't want to price myself out of it!!!

Many thanks for listening to me waffling on!

Debbie x

[son77]

I charge the top end price of childminders in my area and also include food. (This is £3.50 p/h). I know some minders in this area charge as low as £2.75 per hour.

[sarahnev707]

ring a couple and pretend you're new to the area on a fact-finding mission - see what they charge

make sure you're at the top end of that!

See other thread started by son77 re meal charges

Sarahx

[miffy]

you could also use the children's information service website to check out charges in the area although it may not show if food is included in the price

Miffy

[mel]

I charge extra for meals which makes me slightly less per hour but always make it up on meals. It means initially my price looks mor attractive to parents.

Mel x

[tasha]

I charge at the top end & for meals - well I did I have noticed that everyone else has put their prices in line with mine!
Tasha

[rubybubbles]

I'm one of the lowest prices in my area £3.60 top end £4.50-£5 ekkk!! But I don't provide lunch they bring their own all my fees include snacks and outtings though