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What Do You Do?????

1:17 PM on Aug. 15, 2008

Do you have family or friends that enroll their children in other programs, for childcare, summer etc?

Then it ends…

What do you do, when they bring their children to you, for a day, or 2?

Well I decided that I was going to type a letter letting them know the fees and leave it up to them. Pay first. What do you think?

It just annoys me when they could have been here all summer, or year!

I know I don’t have any children, so what do I call this?

Is this a blessing?

I kept 2 today and another wants me to keep a nephew maybe a 2 days a week. 1 on Thursday’s. Then they may decide not to send them, on those days, because someone home with them.

Again what do I do???

Phyllis

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tarmara - 3:10 PM on Aug. 21, 2008	[ message ]
count it all joy. youll know when ta say enough is enough

drmchsrs - 6:16 PM on Aug. 18, 2008

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Hi Phyllis
I have a sister and she has a soon who goes to other camps and schools and you are right it does hurt because you know that the child could learn more from you but here is what I do. I remeber that first I have to answer to God so I keep him when she needs me to but she also pays my child care fees. We undaerstand that if you need me during my business hours then it is business but if it is on the weekend or in the evening, I let him come for free because he is my nephew and I have two kids of my own and he need to be around his cousins.

CCVillage - 11:22 PM on Aug. 15, 2008

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I would definately make sure they fill out the same paper work as everyone else. Let them know that you need it on file even if they are leaving their child for a day or two.

If you want to be sure that they understand your fees and policies, you may want to read over the paperwork with them. This allows them the opportunity to ask questions as you read through.

Many providers charge a higher rate for drop-in care. This is because they do not have the benefit of a commitment from parents so they cannot count on the money. At the same time, there is always a transitional period when a new child starts in your program. Having a child stop in for a day or two here and there is more work for you.

You might include a flyer or introductory letter that tells what your program offers. Some people are under the impression that home based daycare providers just 'babysit' when the truth is that most home daycare providers provide well-rounded, educational programs in a setting that is comfortable for the children.

In the end, they are likely to see that you run a professional program that is good for their child and their family.

vwilkins - 3:39 PM on Aug. 15, 2008	[ message ]
That happens to me too. I just accept the business. Look at it like this, it was an inconvience to them but extra income for you.

jycalv - 1:46 PM on Aug. 15, 2008

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I have had this situation. It benefits you in the mean time, for a few bucks...but as for really helping, not so much. I would simply give them the fees and tell them that it is based on availbility. Part time or drop in slots can not be guranteed. They're not giving you a gurantee. If they drop in, then you have some extra $$. Just don't count on the money. And don't turn anyone away for full time to hold a spot for them. I would approach it very up front and honestly with them. You never know, next summer,they may decide to come back, or refer someone to you. That's how I got my 5 yr old that I've had since she was 5 weeks old, through a referral from a drop in. They were so pleased that they decided to leave her w/ me and not enroll her elsewhere. Best of luck.

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