From experience I know that there are not AS MANY providers available
in Idaho, so I imagine that the cost will naturually be less than
other areas, just due to the lower demand. (Idaho has less providers
both home providers and centers than any other state) Full time care
can sometimes be as little as $400 a month or as much as $200 per
week, depending on services offered. More and more daycare providers
are charging a flat fee, regardless of the hours your child attends,
and most now charge in advance as a way to combat the evergrowing
problem of parents who don't pay for childcare. (reference
www.providerwatch.com for more information about that)
Having a flat fee can be better for parents, so you know what to
budget for, but if your childcare hours are very minimal, you might
want to look for a provider who charges either for parttime or hourly
rates. Be sure your provider has a contract as it benefits both you
and them! (Providers who need help with contracts can view
http://www.daycareprovider.org/samplecontract.html for an excellent
sample contract) Parents can view this site also for information they
should see on a childcare contract.
An enrollment fee is more common now as well and may be $100 or more.
Be sure to ask prospective providers if they charge an enrollment fee
so you can prepare for that. |
