Pre-k and DC Rate Issue

[SimpleMom]

More or less a little disappointed. I'm pregnant and about to have our baby. My families have known for 9 months and know that I plan to take an 8wk leave. Everyone has been fine with that.

I have in my contract (which I update and have parents sign every year in Sept.) that there is a minimum of $75.00 /week and in Kindergarten there is a minimum of $45.00/wk which holds the spot as well for release days,etc.

I have a family that I really love working with. I have allowed them to use 4 days for $75.00 (usual requirement is 3 days). I have let them switch hours up here and there. I don't mind, but now they want to send one child to pre-k (and I do an awsome pre-k program here) and wanted a discount off the already discounted price. I said no, not until Kindergarten and now they are probably going to pull her and/or both of thier kids

I just can't afford it. I really need to get my famlies in at $115.00/wk and plan to keep my current families at their current rates just because they have been so awsome to work with. I can't reduce the rate, though for someone due to going to a pre-k program. I have never done that with anyone else either.

As it is, I only make about $30.00-$60.00/wk after expenses are out. I've cut back on everything I can and still operate the kind of business that I want. I have made a business plan, gone through expenditures/profit, and researched the rates for the area through ccrr. $75.00/wk is the BARE minimum I can afford for under school-age.

[mac60]

I do not offer a discount for those who choose to send their child to "real" preschool. I too offer a program. I don't know what they are thinking, but you will probably be responsible for getting them ready to leave, be waiting at the door when they come back, there is no way to fill that gap with another child, so no way. People are bold, and want everything for nothing. When you pay rent or cable, it is the same no matter what, if you choose to not watch cable tv for 2 hours a day, they are not going to deduct your fee, just like if you go on vacation for a week, your landlord is not going to deduct that week. Sorry you are having to deal with greedy parents.

I would come straight out and ask her why she feels your program is not good enough.

[momma2girls]

If the parents to choose preschool, 2 1/2-3 hrs. 2-3 days a week outside my home, they will pay the same amt. as everyone else. There is no way to replace someone in here at those times.

[Crystal]

If my parents were to choose another pre-k program and use me for child care only, they would need to find another child care program. I offer an excellent prek program, am a credentialed Child Development teacher and would be very offended.

That being said, I don't even offer a discount for school-age, and it has never been an issue. Sounds like this family is trying to take advantage. I would let them know that there is no additional and that if that will not work or them, then they are welcome to make other cc arrangements. They will likely find that they are not going to find a lesser rate, and the issue will become a non-issue.

[gbcc]

My parents pay for the spot and not the hours. Therefore, there is no discount if they choose to send their child to pre-k. It would be like the parent picking the child up early or droping off late, they would not get a discount.

[SimpleMom]

Thank you for your responses. I did let the family know that I will not be able to afford to offer a lesser rate. I should add that the discount school-age rate only covers holding the spot and before/after school care. Any other hours are charged per day and such

Feeling much better today after talking with the family again and standing firm on my choice of rates.

Thanks again.