DCP Expectations

[wahmof3]

I have been in this profession for roughly 6 years and yet still have to figure out what exactly it is DCP expect from their providers. I probably never will either.

I guess I need to learn the "red flags".

How do you handle red flags that show up after the DCK starts?

How do you handle the DCP who thinks you are "ON CALL 24/7"?

How do you handle the DCP who doesn't understand that you run a business and that you are not the teenager that they pay to go out on the weekends?

How do you survive when you interview and interview and yet not one family seems like a good fit for your program?

AND how do you do all of these things and more without sounding like a, you know, __________?

[daycare]

I have been in this profession for roughly 6 years and yet still have to figure out what exactly it is DCP expect from their providers. I probably never will either.

I guess I need to learn the "red flags".

How do you handle red flags that show up after the DCK starts?

How do you handle the DCP who thinks you are "ON CALL 24/7"?

How do you handle the DCP who doesn't understand that you run a business and that you are not the teenager that they pay to go out on the weekends?

How do you survive when you interview and interview and yet not one family seems like a good fit for your program?

AND how do you do all of these things and more without sounding like a, you know, __________?

being that you have been in business for 6 years already, I am assuming that you have a PHB?

Also, how are you interviewing? I think that this is the biggest and most important part of our job. Of course people put their best foot forward during the interview, but I think that if you are firm about your policies from the start, explain them well, and ask all of the right questions, I think that you get a good feel of who the person is.

Dont just take anyone, take the person that is the right fit for what you want.

Also, in you PHB do you have late fees? My parents all know that at 6:00, I am closed. You show up at 6:01, you better have your late fee with you.

[wahmof3]

being that you have been in business for 6 years already, I am assuming that you have a PHB?

Also, how are you interviewing? I think that this is the biggest and most important part of our job. Of course people put their best foot forward during the interview, but I think that if you are firm about your policies from the start, explain them well, and ask all of the right questions, I think that you get a good feel of who the person is.

Dont just take anyone, take the person that is the right fit for what you want.

Also, in you PHB do you have late fees? My parents all know that at 6:00, I am closed. You show up at 6:01, you better have your late fee with you.

Yes, I have a policy book. I have put a lot of time and effort into it. The grip I got recently was after a year of caring for the child "we don't like your PHB and contract"

As far as the comment I made being on call 24/7, I don't have an issue of late pick ups. Its more like constant texting, calling, dropping off early. I am tempted to say: No calls/texts after 9pm or before 7am and if your schedule has changed for the upcoming week, I must know when you pick up on Friday (which has always been the policy). I feel like I never get a day off.

Interviewing: I always thought I went over things pretty good. I have even emailed my PHB prior to meeting with the DCP. I just don't get what they don't get. KWIM? I have set policy's in place for good reason, yet it never fails somebody tests them. From now on: I will cover everything and then some. How do you do it on a professional level w/out being the, you know ___??

I want to be (and I am) a fair and understanding person, but sometimes I wonder why it seems like a one way street?? I think some DCP think because they are paying you its their way or they will just find someone else.

[Blackcat31]

I have been in this profession for roughly 6 years and yet still have to figure out what exactly it is DCP expect from their providers. I probably never will either.

I guess I need to learn the "red flags".

How do you handle red flags that show up after the DCK starts?

I address red flags IMMEDIATELY if they show up after kids start or anytime they show up for that matter. If you nip them in the bud right off the bat with clear communication about what you expect of the parents and in regards to what you are willing to put up with, you will find a lot of situations can be remedied.

How do you handle the DCP who thinks you are "ON CALL 24/7"?

I would express CLEARLY and in no uncertain terms that I am NOT on call. I do NOT work for daycare parents. I provide a service to them and do not appreciate being tied to my job 24/7. If a parent begins to over step these baoundaries, I again, say something IMMEDIATELY so that the bahvior stops and so that the parent knows I do not bend my rules/policies.

How do you handle the DCP who doesn't understand that you run a business and that you are not the teenager that they pay to go out on the weekends?

I tell my parents that I am a professional child care provider with many years of experience and education behind me. I let them know up front that I expect to be treated professionally and if I feel that I am not treated in that manner, I reserve the right to term them if necessary.

How do you survive when you interview and interview and yet not one family seems like a good fit for your program?

I just keep trying. I spread the word, make myself known in the community, advertise like crazy and have even given parents a "finders fee" for new clients.

AND how do you do all of these things and more without sounding like a, you know, __________?

I am pretty sure I do sound like a _____________, but I guess it doesn't really bother me. I want my clients to know I run a business and do it in a very professional manner. I want my clients to know I do know my stuff and I do have the experience, education and the backbone to do what needs to be done. I am pretty sure most my clients respect me a lot more htan normal because I am pretty open and upfront. They never have to wonder or guess at what I mean, expect or think since I tell, ask and say it to them.

I answered in bold above.

Child care can be a really tough business but I really do think clients appreciate really good and really clear communication. Set your rules and policies and then stand by them proudly. Know you are doing what is best for YOU and that this is an ever evolving business to be in.

Every family is different and every family responds/reacts to you differently. Simply decide what things you are willing to bend on, what things that you will throw out, and what things you will absolutely NOT budge on and then stick to it.

If you have the confidence to be professional at all times, it gives back to you tenfold.

Hang in there.....child care also requires a good deal of patience in more than one area.

[My3cents]

I have been in this profession for roughly 6 years and yet still have to figure out what exactly it is DCP expect from their providers. I probably never will either.

I guess I need to learn the "red flags".

How do you handle red flags that show up after the DCK starts? you have a handbook, policy book, rule book and contract. You don't waver from it unless you chose to.

How do you handle the DCP who thinks you are "ON CALL 24/7"?you have contracted hours and anything above and beyond those hours is overtime and you expect to be compensated for that time-clear contract,rule, policy book and interview

How do you handle the DCP who doesn't understand that you run a business and that you are not the teenager that they pay to go out on the weekends?you behave like a professional and are clear that you are a business not a babysitter- big difference. Note- Babysitters are paid better then we are ;-) Make it clear during interview and in your books

How do you survive when you interview and interview and yet not one family seems like a good fit for your program?you hang in there, or you take on a family that doesn't meet what you want for your daycare and expect to have issues. Patience- and while you have that patience your making your program the best that it can be. Advertise like crazy and don't settle

AND how do you do all of these things and more without sounding like a, you know, __________?

you speak kindly but to the point to others. You can enforce yourself yet still be kind. Fake it till you make it. Treat other people the way you want to be treated.

Hope this helps you- It helped me when I needed hear it and even when I still need a repeat of it. Hang in there things will get better put on a positive attitude and all will work out.

[Lilbutterflie]

I just agreed to start a family that has shown many red flags. The DCB is wonderful, but the parents do not communicate at all already. I was very tempted to stop answering their phone calls after the first red flag; but I decided to try the interview anyway. I stressed multiple times during the interview what my policies regarding communication were; and they still don't seem to get it.

I know next time that when I see a red flag, I will politely let them know that they don't seem like a good fit for my daycare!

[DBug]

As far as the comment I made being on call 24/7, I don't have an issue of late pick ups. Its more like constant texting, calling, dropping off early. I am tempted to say: No calls/texts after 9pm or before 7am and if your schedule has changed for the upcoming week, I must know when you pick up on Friday (which has always been the policy). I feel like I never get a day off.

That one's simple: Don't answer the call or text . I'll email families back if they email on evenings or weekends, but I won't return calls. I'll talk with them about it the next time they drop off. Make yourself unavailable after hours and they'll get the hint ... eventually

[itlw8]

I only believe it or not got a cell phone. and though I use it for childcare I have not given out the number yet.

I am not sure I want to either. Call me old but I hate it when people answer the cell phone or text during a conversation or meal. The person texting can wait for an answer.

as I see it really it is not just the parents that do this. Everyone with cell phones and unlimited text send a text when they think of it and think the cell phone should be on your hip and you should reply.... Now I use a land line and they leave a message. ok I do need to carry it and let them call and leave a voice mail when we are outside but they can forget about instant answer. LOL

If anyone calls after 9PM or before 7 AM they better have a death or severe emergency. Some people turn off the phone at night. I do not because my Mother is elderly and even though my boys are grown I dread the call they had an accident, are in jail or ran out of gas. I am a mom that worries and thinks the worst.

[My3cents]

Yes, I have a policy book. I have put a lot of time and effort into it. The grip I got recently was after a year of caring for the child "we don't like your PHB and contract"At this point- your response should have been. I am sorry that you don't like my PHB, you are welcome to find other care that more suits your needs. I will need a two week notice, or two week pay. It should be something that you have already gone over with extensively so that it is not a big shock during interview process. Year later your clients decide to wake up and read it is not your fault. I have a checklist of important items that they must initial as a separate part of my paperwork.

As far as the comment I made being on call 24/7, I don't have an issue of late pick ups. Its more like constant texting, calling, dropping off early. I am tempted to say: No calls/texts after 9pm or before 7am and if your schedule has changed for the upcoming week, I must know when you pick up on Friday (which has always been the policy). I feel like I never get a day off.I feel this way too at times. I find myself thinking about the daycare constantly on my time off. I need to work on that. IT is hard because I wait to do my food program stuff for after hours- the shopping for the daycare has to get done after hours. It is hard to turn off. My daycare is separate from my home but is also used by us after hours, so even when I clean on friday. I still have to clean again on Monday morning or Sunday night to make sure it is ready for the next day-same through out the week. Your not on call 24/7. A great way to address issues is to hand out a newsletter with reminders, and updates. Example.... please remember that I will only except calls, and text up until 7pm, unless an emergency situation that you need to get a hold of me ASAP. This is my family time and I need to be able to shut off the daycare and have that time with my own family. Please be curtious of my weekend time also. I will respond to you as I am able to as this is my time to be with my family. Daycare business hours are blah blah blah.

Interviewing: I always thought I went over things pretty good. I have even emailed my PHB prior to meeting with the DCP. love this idea and I might borrow it- not sure only because of the expense of making them.I just don't get what they don't get. KWIM? I have set policy's in place for good reason, yet it never fails somebody tests them. From now on: I will cover everything and then some. How do you do it on a professional level w/out being the, you know ___?? you just speak with an honest, patient tone of voice and be sincere. You don't worry about those that don't mesh with your program or style. Weed them out ahead of time if possible.

I want to be (and I am) a fair and understanding person, but sometimes I wonder why it seems like a one way street?? I think some DCP think because they are paying you its their way or they will just find someone else.

I think your completely right, they feel they are paying us. They will find other daycare, but I think most want reliable, trustworthy, caring providers. If you tip toe on everyone that comes your way you will burn out. You need to run your program the way you want it to work. I think it is a one way street because they are handing over thier most prized possesion to you and giving you cash too. They want what they want. Your job is to come across as looking out for the group as a whole- being firm and sticking to what you believe. Good luck-

[EntropyControlSpecialist]

That one's simple: Don't answer the call or text . I'll email families back if they email on evenings or weekends, but I won't return calls. I'll talk with them about it the next time they drop off. Make yourself unavailable after hours and they'll get the hint ... eventually

Definitely this.

[Willow]

How do you handle red flags that show up after the DCK starts?

With caution, but not assumption. If you take a family on I think you have to give them the benefit of the doubt. Be firm to establish good boundaries, but don't take action until they've actually done something wrong.

How do you handle the DCP who thinks you are "ON CALL 24/7"?

In the case of showing up early as you mentioned, answer the door after an annoying delay and then half dressed looking a mess in your pj's. From personal experience, it won't happen again

I don't care if a family shows up early as long as their early doesn't extend into pre business hours. At interview I let parents know I can be flexible within the hours I am open, but not pre or post that. Even 5 minutes before I am NOT ready to start my day as I'm usually running my dogs out in the yard. If parents choose to even enter the driveway they should be prepared to be met with slobbery, jumping and sometimes even muddy/wet dogs very excited to see "their kids."

How do you handle the DCP who doesn't understand that you run a business and that you are not the teenager that they pay to go out on the weekends?

Simply say no (repeat, repeat, repeat, repeat....)

How do you survive when you interview and interview and yet not one family seems like a good fit for your program?

Have you tried comparing your program to those in your area? What are your similarities? What are your differences? What are your weak and strong points? Where do you think parents biggest troubles with your program lie? In turn, where are your biggest trouble spots as far as potential families originating from?

AND how do you do all of these things and more without sounding like a, you know, __________?

I struggle with that too. Which is funny because no one I know would EVER peg me as one. Sounds like you are equally as hard on yourself. Take a deep breath and try to relax. Setting up good boundaries will be far more likely to bring you the families you want and will enjoy instead of just families to fill your spots that'll cause you headaches in the future.

[wdmmom]

How do you handle red flags that show up after the DCK starts?

I tell each family that I interview that I offer a 4 week trial period. Not only does this time ensure that your child is getting acclimated to a new environment but the parents are satisfied with the level of care their child is receiving.

How do you handle the DCP who thinks you are "ON CALL 24/7"?

During the interview, I tell families that I am available during my hours of operation. If they are reporting an absence, they must call, text or email 30 minutes before their drop off time. I don't normally have any issues with parents contacting me after hours. If they do, they contact me via email.

How do you handle the DCP who doesn't understand that you run a business and that you are not the teenager that they pay to go out on the weekends?

I present myself in a business/professional type of way. I tell families that after working 10 hours a day, I have my own family to tend to and they deserve some of my time. I also tell them that I am not opened nights or weekends and that I do not give references or names of people that do babysitting after hours. This is a business...just as a center. We have an open time and a closing time.

How do you survive when you interview and interview and yet not one family seems like a good fit for your program?

Continue advertising and interviewing. You are bound to find someone that you can work with and that will be a good fit for your program.

AND how do you do all of these things and more without sounding like a, you know, __________?

Remain professional at all times. I don't make friends with my families, I don't work for people that I think aren't a good fit and I don't take on families just to make a buck. The people I select are people that have the same parenting style as me and enjoy quality time with their children.