Wwyd?

[momofboys]

I currently have 2 DCF - one has been with me off & on for @ two years. We did a contract initially but when they came back to me this last time I didn't do a contract w/them b/c they always paid on time, were never habitually late, etc. We discontinued care at the time b/c I temporarily took a job outside of the home before returning to childcare in the home at which time they practiclly begged to come back to me - made me feel very appreciated that they thought that much of mehappyface.

Well the dad had a serious illness where he was hospitalized in the ICU (he had a blood clot in his lungs) for about 1 week - I am still not sure if he is home or not. So the kids did not come last week. I could really use the $$$ & I feel like I am sort of owed it since I was available & ready to care for the kids (they pay me the 1st day of care at drop-off for each week). The mom did not work that week & she spent 24/7 at the hospital w/husband & grandparents took care of the kids. I understand - really I do. DCM & DCD both have good jobs - dad works for the state & I am certain he has a big bank of sick time so pretty sure he will get paid for his time off. I don't want to make a big deal about it but I'm confident when they return nothing will be said about my missing week of care. Would you bring it up or let it slide? I think of it as if they called off sick for the whole week - I am willing to cut them some slack but wonder what everyone's policies would say about something like this. Thanks!

[Ariana]

I personally would let it slide especially if they're good parents that you like. I'm not sure because I don't know the parents but at this time, you asking for money may not come across as very appreciative of them kwim?

[Heidi]

Maybe you could offer to go halfsies?

First of all, wait to see what happens when they arrive tommorow. Maybe they'll just pay it, maybe they'll bring it up. If they do, ask them "what do YOU think is fair?"

If they say "I don't know", you could say, "Well, as you know, I normally charge when you are absent, but since I know it's been such a rough week for you all, I was thinking we could just split it? Does that sound fair to you?

That's what I would probably do, in your shoes...

[Lucy]

I agree on the half price.

If you approach it like you're doing them a favor, maybe they won't argue it. Just say, "I'm so glad your husband is better!! Under the circumstances, I decided I would only charge you half for last week."

[countrymom]

seriously, let it slide. Yes I know you need the money but they have other things on their mind than daycare.

[wdmmom]

seriously, let it slide. Yes I know you need the money but they have other things on their mind than daycare.

I agree. If they come back and pay you, so be it. If not, forget about it.

[cheerfuldom]

You need to resign a new contract asap. They shouldn't have to pay for something when your current arrangement wasnt under the old contract. Perhaps they will go ahead and pay you but I wouldn't ask for it. I would just type up a new contract and get things spelled out for the future.

[Crazy8]

seriously, let it slide. Yes I know you need the money but they have other things on their mind than daycare.

I agree. I would let it go, but after this is over I would get a new contract signed. If this was one of my families even with our contracts I would probably give them the free week.

[momofboys]

Thanks for the insight all. I do think there is a possibility that when they cme back they will mention it - but not sure. If they offer to pay part of it I will accept it but if they don't mention it I won't bring it up. I have to call them today (today was not a scheduled day for care) to see if dad is home & if they are coming tomorrow.

[JenNJ]

I think that you are right on the money. You are doing care without a contract, so they aren't obligated to do anything except pay for days care is used. I would draw up a contract ASAP though and have mom sign the day they return. It protects both parties in the long run.

[CheekyChick]

I would let it slide this time, but I would DEFINITELY write up a new contract.

[daycare]

first off, get them to sign a contract NOW... don't do anymore business without one. Nicest people on earth or not.

In my PHB I have that if your children are out for a serious illness or family emergency, that they will have to pay for the first week and then the second week is at half of the cost.

Also, if they decide to take the one week at half price for emergency or illness, then they won't get their vacation at half price. Full time children can take one week off per calendar year at half a week's pay.

I am a softy with this policy and I would just let them know how sorry you are for their family and will keep them in your thoughts. However, you are running a business and all feelings aside, YOU can't let their problems become yours. YOU can however, do what you feel is right to help them out. The glory of being self employed....

[Lilbutterflie]

I do agree that you should let this one slide; and have them sign a new contract.

My contract states that parents are still responsible for paying on the time they do come. This includes time away due to illness or vacation, or really any reason.

I also have a portion that talks about Extended Time Away. This is when a child is absent for more than two consecutive weeks (ex: maternity leave, teacher summers, parent or child serious illness). My Extended Time Away policy states that if it is planned, they can have up to 12 weeks to hold their spot for half price. If it is unplanned, they must pay in full for the first two weeks; and then pay half price for the rest of the weeks (for up to 12 weeks).