Advice for Newbies- Have a good contract!!!

[winecountrydaycaregal]

Hi, I have been doing childcare for 15 years and have changed my contract along the way.
I am only open 8:30 to 3 five days per week. Most preschools in my area are the same. I am rarely flexible on those times.
I charge up front for the month and require payment for missed days, vacation, sickness or other.
I only take kids that are one year old and older. Most kids leave when they are about 3 to move on to preschool.
I require 4 weeks deposit to hold an upcoming slot and it is only refundable if they end up backing out, if i can fill the space on or before it is available.
I charge for all federal holidays if the child usually comes on that day. (although, if the family is supportive i always attempt to give them a different day that week if i have the space)
Parents cannot pick up or drop off during my 12:30 to 2:30 nap time.
I do not charge for my vacations and give plenty of notice if i take one.
I do not take the kids to the park or out in public unless they are in my big wagon (i cannot watch all 6 kids safely).
I provide an am snack and parents bring a lunch. Since i close at 3 there is no time for a pm snack.
I do art when appropriate for the age of the group.
I love my job so much. I feel i have the respect from all the families. It has been a blessing to be able to be home as my own daughters have grown up (one is in college now and one is a Junior in high school). We have a dog and cat that are glad i am home with all day.
Have a wonderful day.
Debbie

[Provider_Manda]

Wow..sounds wonderful. I wish I could have mine set up like that..I feel I am walked all over

I am open till 6 pm..I don't charge ahead, they pay weekly. They do not pay for days they are not here, and I serve Breakfast through dinner. Somedays I feel like Im going to pull my hair out !! How do you get your parents to follow your rules ?

[winecountrydaycaregal]

Hi, it has taken a few years to feel comfortable establishing those rules...I lessened my hours gradually. For most people i feel they do not really need the extended hours but take advantage if they are in place. However, some professions need longer hours. For instance, i have not been able to take school teachers kids because my hours are short.
The families that i have are generally self employed so they are flexible. I live in a rather affluent area and that helps.
Maybe you could make some small changes and if/when you do, try to give your families plenty of notice. I have found that my families are willing to make adjustments if it makes me happy. They want the person who takes care of their kids to be happy.
Good luck.