This is my first time posting on this site...I'm so glad I found you. I run a home daycare and am revamping my 2006 contract and wanted to pick a few brains out there. We live in the midwest and jsut wondered how some of you might manage things. I'm open from 7:30-5:30 but am experienceing a little bit of burnout (I've done this for 5 years, taught school before but do this now so I can stay home). I get very frustrated with partents who dont' come and get their child directly after work. They might go home, mow the yard, get a message, grocery shop while I'm caring for their child. I understand that they pay me a certain fee to watch their child and it should really matter what they are doing during that time slot. Some of my families are great about coming and getting their child right after work....and are here about 8.5 hours a day but pay the same rate as a child that is here 10 hours a day. So, for 2006, I'm making some changes and having various weekly rates depending on how many hours per day a child is here. If you have any insights or thoughts that would be helpful I'd appreciate it