When seeking childcare, remember some expenses aren't included in the weekly fee. Whether you've selected a daycare center or family daycare, you'll probably have to pay an enrollment fee. Depending on individual policies, you may also be charged a materials fee to cover the cost of workbooks and craft supplies. Some centers charge a supply fee each month or semester, while others bill materials fees yearly. Additionally, many caregivers plan brief field trips for the children. While younger children, ages four and five, will probably have few excursions (X-cur-zhunz), some centers plan several weekly outings for school-age children. Because the filed trips can vary, so will the cost. Caregivers can often get discounted rates for activities such as skating, movies, and swimming in the public pool. For all-day field trips, you can also expect to be required to provide a sack lunch for your child. Do you have more than one child? You can expect fees for younger children to be higher than those for older children. Here's good news-- many providers give discounts for caring for multiple children. When selecting your child's caregiver, be sure to ask about additional expenses to your projected weekly cost.
