Implementing a Contract, or No?

[akpayne]

So I originally thought I would go without a contract- I have no intention of charging when DCK are not here and I didn't think I would need one. After reading some of the problems people have with no shows and late or no payments Im starting to second guess myself. I have no full timers, only part time. I still dont think I need one for my before and after school kids, maybe just for my 3 during the day.
How would I implement a contract after DCK have already enrolled, or is it too late? I will be implementing something for any new kids, just not sure what to do with those Im already watching.

Thoughts?

[daycare]

So I originally thought I would go without a contract- I have no intention of charging when DCK are not here and I didn't think I would need one. After reading some of the problems people have with no shows and late or no payments Im starting to second guess myself. I have no full timers, only part time. I still dont think I need one for my before and after school kids, maybe just for my 3 during the day.
How would I implement a contract after DCK have already enrolled, or is it too late? I will be implementing something for any new kids, just not sure what to do with those Im already watching.

Thoughts?

why would you try to run a business without a contract or rules?

[SunshineMama]

YES! Implement a contract. (Think of it like a post-nuptual agreement LOL).

Please always have a contract. You are professional and run a business. You can always fall back on your contract, and may have to in a legal situation.

[cheerfuldom]

ALWAYS have a contract. Please don't be naive and think that nothing will ever happen to you. Even a basic one outlining what was already verbally agreed to will help keep everyone on track. Otherwise you WILL be back here in a few months (maybe sooner.....) venting about how you screwed yourself by not putting something in writing.

[daycare]

I don't know of a company that does not have written policies or contracts..

Walmart has its return policy written on their receipt if you wish to retrun something.

Want a credit card with walmart? You better qualify and agree to their contract, or no card for you.

Simple...>Don't do business without written policies and contracts.

[Crazy8]

I don't think you will get any seasoned home daycare provider that will tell you its ok to NOT have a contract!!!!

It can be a simple outline of some basic rules/practices - it doesn't have to be the 15+ page ones some have, but yes, you absolutely need one!!!!

[MarinaVanessa]

You cans still implement one and even a handbook if you wish. Just create one and some policies and give the families a date to sign them and return them by.

You will probably want to give them some time to decide whether they want to sign it or not but if your contract will cover the way you already do business and you won't change things that you do then there shouldn't be a reason for them not to. Giving them 1 week to decide should be enough time, 2 at the most. I suggest you also write a letter to all parents stating that from now on you will have a contract, the date the contract needs to be returned by and clarify that if it is not returned by the date then childcare will no longer be provided. Give them the letter at the same time that you give them the contract.

[My3cents]

So I originally thought I would go without a contract- I have no intention of charging when DCK are not here and I didn't think I would need one. After reading some of the problems people have with no shows and late or no payments Im starting to second guess myself. I have no full timers, only part time. I still dont think I need one for my before and after school kids, maybe just for my 3 during the day.
How would I implement a contract after DCK have already enrolled, or is it too late? I will be implementing something for any new kids, just not sure what to do with those Im already watching.

Thoughts?

you should. How can you anticipate a weekly income? All your kiddo's come down with the same illness and are out for three days.........there goes more then half your weekly income. It's ok to charge when the kids are not there. You were there! If they did come, you would be open- Don't sell yourself short- Allow yourself three sick days too, three personal days, two weeks of vacation. The rest of the time your there and ready to go....... I see burn out in no time at all for you- Def have a policy/handbook, rulebook and contract. You are a business, not a babysitter-