SACRAMENTO, Calif. -- As families look to save money during a belt-tightening economy, some preschools in the area said they are seeing record-low attendance numbers.

"We're actually really feeling it this year," said Joyce Melchin, who has operated Action Day Learning Center in Folsom for 28 years.

Melchin said this has been one of her lowest attended years ever.

"We're licensed for 88 (children) here, and I'd say we are at 45 to 46," Melchin said.

A down economy means preschool has become a luxury that's being put on hold by some parents, forcing some schools to offer deals to make programs more affordable.

In the latest issue of Sacramento Parent Magazine, you can find free registration and two weeks free tuition at some preschools.

Melchin said that at Action Day Care if you refer another parent or come as a group of people you can receive a discount.

"Where you always got family discounts now we'll do friend discounts," Melchin said.

Some preschool owners and teachers hope the discounts will keep them in business as some face laying off staff or closing their doors.

"We're hanging on by the skin of our teeth," Melchin said.