How long of a waiting list is too long?

kme930

My husband and I are going on a tour today of a daycare near our house. It would be incredibly convenient and is supposed to be really good. The issue? The waiting list has over 70 families on it.

The negatives: There are only 24 spots in the infant program, which runs from 3-16 months. 

The possible positives: They are thinking of doubling the size of the infant program (so adding 24 more spots). They are also thinking of moving the 14-16 month olds into a transitional program, which would free up about 10 spots. 

But 24+10 does not equal 70+. So is this even worth it? Do a lot of people drop out once their name comes up? I can't believe we are so far behind given we are looking for care in September and it's only March!

LCB34

We are on 3 waitlists that all are averaging 18-24 months before entry into the center.  It is the best we can do here given our criteria.  We will stay on all three lists until a space opens up and just use a nanny at home while waiting.

 

If you love the center, get on the list and just see what happens.

LSUBride3

I'm finally getting in my 1wst choice in Sept.  We've been on the list since i was prego w/ DD#1 (about 2 years).  but this center only has 6 infant spots...

We found another place to go in the meantime and we actually love it, so when we move it'll be a little tough on me.

lckytabby3

Most of those 70 people probably already have found another daycare they like and have forgotten they are even on the list and when there name comes up they wont want to change thier childs routen.  I would put your name on the list and see what happens.  It can't hurt.  Just have a back up plan.  I dont think it is to long at all.  Any list that long they are just really writing everyones name down that might be interested. 

Mr.&MrsS

I agree with what pp said. But also, children will be moving on the the next room and some may leave. So that is a few more spots. It cant hurt to have your name on the waiting list. I would certianly go look and just have a back up plan incase you arent able to get in.

qtpa2t

I think it must depend on where you are.  I was on two waiting lists, one of which we'd have preference on, at #30 and #47.  We didn't make it off either of them, even though we were given all indications that it would be fine, and I'm scrambling now.