I'll take babies in cloth or disposable - i don't wash the cloth but will rinse and spin to make it easier for mum/dad to take home.

Food is provided by the parent - we have to do a special course to be able to provide food and I feel that my time is better spent looking after the children then preparing and cooking meals.

You might find the routine at family day care more flexible - although often the kids just follow the same routine after a while anyway.

Ask the carer up front what she/he provides and what you will need to provide. Go armed with a list if necessary. I hand out a list of frequently asked questions to the parents at interviews.