OK, just had a chance to read through your post and the others.

Start Up - I started up a million years ago and FDC has changed so much over the years (ok, not quite that long ago, but it feels like it). Our scheme has quite a large checklist (it's a thick book), that needs all the boxes ticked off before you can start - and again each twelve months.

When I first started I rented, and it was hard to get permission, you will need written permission from your landlord, explain to them FDC and you can get separate insurance for it. Some landlords like the idea that you will have someone checking your place over each month. (use that to your advantage to get permission to do FDC)

Do you have two living areas When I first started, no. We also bought our own house and this house was smaller when I started back after my second son was born. We've since extended so we now have two living areas. I use DD's room for a "cot room", our loungerooom is the older kids sleep area (which means family can't use that area during sleep time) and family room/kitchen is where I do FDC. The worst thing about it, is not being able to get away from work at the end of the day, it's always here.

Common Ground Just a matter of necessity - I need to use those areas, so I do. When I first started I used my DS's bedroom, they just accepted it, they're that type of kids, they go with the flow.

They did find it hard to adjust to sharing mum and their toys, but they did adjust after a while. It doesn't seem to bother them at all now, and it's all DD knows - I came back when she was almost 7weeks old, she looks for the kids on the weekend and will "chat" with any child when we are shopping.

School Age I have in the past, but personally I find they are harder to care for. I refuse to do pick up/drop off, there is a bus around the corner or they can walk to school. I find it too hard when I have 5 little ones to get in and out of the car.

Travel I have a tarago which has 5 car seats in it. We go to the scheme playgroup once a fortnight, although the kids really enjoy this and get upset during school holidays cause it's not on, I'm going to look for something closer next year. I'm finding it really hard with the amount of traffic on the road now, it worries me that something will happen to one of the kids.

Let me know if you need anymore information.