Claire, I'm a big FDC fan, my DD1 started 1 day a week when she was 9 mths old and has been a happy FDC child ever since. My main advice is to be quite assertive when it comes to selecting the day carer, you don't have to take the first place that is offered if you have a good reason. That way you'll get a quality carer that's a good fit for both you and your kids, kwim?
BTW - congrats on your TAFE course and good luck with your study. FDC is definitely a bonus if you can get a carer who is able to do extra hours if you need them during peak study/exam times, or if you need to attend an evening tutorial and your other half is not at home.
I love it. DD was booked into the same FDC as her cousin and she loved it. I appreciated the smaller group so more personal contact between fdc mum and DD. I felt much calmer about leaving DD with someone who seemed to care for her FDC kids as much as her own (who was in the same FDC). She is still a good friend and is invited to DDs birthday next week.
The only concern that I have with it, is that if the FDC mum is unwell then there are no back ups (unless you can get a quickie place at another fdc place). This was fine in my case because my work was flexible but can be a nuisense otherwise. At least at day care centres there are other carers.
But I still think that is a small price to pay for such personalised service.
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