How does a daycare waiting list work?

We didn't have to go on a waiting list with the first daycare center but with this one we are on the list. We were told that we are the first on the list for September and we mailed our registration fee.

So what happens now? Do we sit tight and wait for a call or somethings? I feel silly even typing this but I guess I am really anxious.

Re: How does a daycare waiting list work?

Yes, we were on a waiting list. They called us but we were on for almost a year (small center and I needed two spots at the same time). I called every few months just to see.

That is great news if he is the first on the list for Sept. That's what we originally wanted but had to go earlier. A lot of people (teachers especiall) want Sept. placements so it's a very hard month to get.

I'd call in a few weeks just to see if a spot is opening up sooner. I don't think it can hurt if you call one or two times btwn now and then.

Re: How does a daycare waiting list work?

We were on a wait list for TT. They said he was 1st and then they said it was pushed back from oct to november.

Finally after we were sick of waiting DH went up there (I still dont know what he said) but he came out with an application

Basically we stalked them nicely and said look "we dont like anywhere else" "you need to take our son"...we also brought them cookies which helped

Re: How does a daycare waiting list work?

That's great for the September date.

Basically they go down the list & if someone still wants the spot, they take it. The spots open up as kids are moved up to classes.

While they have September as the opening, they may open it up earlier as some families take their kids out for vacation, etc.

Re: How does a daycare waiting list work?

Thanks so much - this is all helpful. I think I'll give it some time and then call to check in. I know it would make me feel better too. I am so anxious to get started there...it's a great place and I think that Lucas will thrive in their environment. Plus...the more we talk about #2 the more anxious I get knowing that we need a place for the both of them eventually.

Re: How does a daycare waiting list work?

We were recently discussing criteria for moving up as they just decided to move DS into the next room. At my particular daycare, which is a big chain, they said that you may be on the waiting list, but there are other things that happen within the daycare that may supercede you. A new child to the school gets last place in the line of things they look for when they have an open spot. A child moving up gets first consideration in an open spot. Then a child who has a sibling already there. Then a child who is a referral from someone already there. There was something else on that list, but I don't remember. Then, on the bottom, was a new child with no sibling and no referral.

Not to say that any of this will get in your way, it's just that sometimes, even though your first on the list which is great, you may not get the first open spot.

ETA It doesn't hurt to occassionally call and see what's going on.

Message edited 7/15/2008 11:18:20 AM.

Re: How does a daycare waiting list work?

Hi ang

Re: How does a daycare waiting list work?