Running family daycare?

[leenaomi]

Hi all,

I'm thinking of becoming a family day carer and am interested to hear from anyone who is doing or has done this.

The website for Gold Coast Family Day Care (where I live) said they prefer carers that are available 5 days a week but I'm wondering if I could do it for 3 days a week instead.

Also, I can't find the breakdown of age groups that you're allowed at any one time, eg. 2 under school age and 3 school age. Does anyone have any more information or input on what it's like to be a carer?

Thank you for your help!

[shellymumof2]

I am in NSW and my mum has done Family Day Care for about 17yrs.
She currently only works 4 days a week and has friends who do less.
She is allowed to have 2 under 2 and 3 over 2.
They are very strict about the Day Care Mothers and do drop in checks every so often without notice.
When you start you need to have a home check to make sure everything is safe and secure. So no trampolines or swing sets and any pets need to be locked away.
I forgot to say that the number of children you are allowed includes your own.
My mum must enjoy doing it being in it so long.
Thats all I can think of right now just let me know if you have any questions and I find out for you and let you know.
Hope I helped even a little.
Michelle:fingerscrossed:

[~Emmylou~]

My MIL is in Brisbane and has done family daycare for years.
She does it 5 days a week. I know that the rule with infants is no more than 4 (including your own kids). I know MIL has 4 under two's on Thursdays ;)
As shellymum said they do spot checks, and you have to have a current first aid certificate and blue card in QLD.
They also have to inspect your house before you're approved as a carer. Doesn't matter if you're renting though, as MIL is. Pets must be outside, dogs suitably restrained while kids are in the yard.
I'm considering doing this as well after my next bub is born but not sure it will be worth it as I'll only be able to take two kids with my two already at home.

[leenaomi]

Thank you for your replies Emmlylou and shellymumof2!!

I've sumbitted my application and am waiting for them to contact me to begin the interviews and home inspections.