Bad Choice Of Family? How To Deal With This?

[My3cents]

If a parent says to me "other parent cannot pick up" I need to see the paper work and have a copy of said paper work on file. I cannot legally keep a child away from a parent without proper documentation-meaning from the court. I would have an immediate discussion with dcd and tell him you need the papers asap.

The other "issue" is if the legal documentation states that mom cannot be around/pick up the child and you are aware that mom is back in the picture, you could be in trouble with the state if you don't report it.

There is a reason the state banned mom from being around child.

The other thing is, dad told you mom can't pick up child but there is no documentation. In that case, I wouldn't think you could legally deny mom from picking up, just on dads word alone.

In short, talk to dad & get the paper work. If there is none-I would term for lying. To me, that's a big red flag. If he refuses to get the paper work, let him know that without the paper work you cannot deny a parent access to their child.

[cheerfuldom]

I figure the less I know, the better. Id rather not be involved, but now that you say it out loud I can see that I already am involved.

oh its dangerous to not know enough....its your responsibility as a provider to know who is legally allowed to be around this child. you could be putting yourself in a very bad situation by remaining ignorant on the details of this arrangment.....as well as putting this boy in a bad situation.

[slpender]

I think I would let this family go. They could cause more problems down the road. There is a reason CPS is in their lives and if you know the Mom is there
and she legally is not allowed you could also be in trouble down the road if something ever happens because you did not report it.

[thatdivalady]

Ive never required a two week trial. I should.
The "deposit" he gave me was a check that he requested I not cash, but he will give me cash tomorrow instead, so tomorrow will be the deciding factor. If I dont get a payment I will call the other family. I feel like I made a poor choice enrolling this family, but I will at least see it through until payment is an issue, seeing as thats tomorrow.

Honestly, it's your business at the end of the day and it is up to you as to whether you have decided that this family is not a good fit. I personally do not take any payment that cannot be applied immediately as payment. I also feel like you should always go with your gut. If the other two children are a sure thing then I would go for it based on how you are feeling at the moment.

Also, maybe revise your policies to include the 2 week trial period because that will help you out tremendously.

[Crystal]

I agree with cheerfuldom and trummynme...

I would be asking Dad immediately for the paperwork. If he cannot provide it, let him know that you are required by law to contact CPS. You are a mandated reporter. The Dad has expressed to you that there is an active CPS case and that Mom is not to see the child. THAT statement is enough "probable cause" for you to call CPS and report the situation. In addition, you KNOW that Mom is actively seeing child.....if you don't report and there IS an open case, you could be in hot water. Call CPS, let them investigate if there is an open case....if there is not, they will likely not investigate it further. Let it be up to them.

If you are feeling uncomfortable and as though you cannot work with this family, it is well within your rights to term care and accept the other family.

Good luck.

[DaisyMamma]

Well, as I had expected and hoped, DCF dropped out today. Now I have room for the other two. Hopefully that works out. «fingers crossed»

[daycare]

Well, as I had expected and hoped, DCF dropped out today. Now I have room for the other two. Hopefully that works out. «fingers crossed»

yeah for you!! glad that you didnt have to do anything but sit back and let things unfold on their own.

Hugs and Happiness sent your way!!! I hope that it all works out!!!