Christmas Presents from Parents

[EntropyControlSpecialist]

If I have all of the parents pay on time so I can pay my bills (thanks soon to be ex husband) then I will be so, so thankful.

[lovemykidstoo]

Over the years I have gotten everything ranging from a family photo card to a really great gift..... that I found out later was stolen.

I don't expect gifts or cards or anything really, following my policies, being respectful and paying me on time (especially during paid time off) is all the appreciation I really need/want.

I know we all like to get gifts but just because it's Christmas doesn't mean I expect something for doing what I am paid to do.

It's nice to hear that I am appreciated for my services but like I said, following my rules/policies is enough appreciation for me.

Sorry, I am not trying to dimish those wonderful families others have that do gift you....it is super sweet of them to think of you.

BC someone gave you a stolen gift? Holy cow, what was it if you don't mind me asking? I don't expect gifts either but it really is nice. I love seeing my dck's when they open the gifts that I get them. I usually spend around $10 each on them. Just small things. Even with family Christmas I get more joy out of watching everyone else open their gifts. So BC, do you tell your parents not to buy you anything for Christmas?

I have a 2 day Christmas party going on here because there are 2 kids that don't come today that come tomorrow and I dont' want them to miss out, so a 2 dayer it is I did have 2 parents that send gifts with their child. One was a $100 gift card to Meijers and the other was a $15 gift card to a restaurant and a $25 gift card to where I get my haircut (we both go to the same place).

[Blackcat31]

BC someone gave you a stolen gift? .

I PM'ed you. This family is a current family still.

So BC, do you tell your parents not to buy you anything for Christmas?

No, I just don't say anything. If a family feels compelled to buy me something, I do appreciate it and thank them for it with a hand written note but most of the time, I have found that it is the newer clients that tend to buy gifts.

The long standing ones don't and not because they don't appreciate me but more because I don't give gifts to DCK's for their birthdays and Christmas.

I tend to leave 99.9% of the celebrating for any holiday/birthday to families to do in private.

We don't have big parties here for holidays or birthdays. I operate much more like a school than a family child care.

[kitykids3]

I usually get handmade pictures from the kiddos and gift cards to Home Depot (when I bought my house 2 yrs ago), Target, restaurants, Half Price Books, Bed Bath and Beyond, etc.

I have 2 presents under the tree waiting to be opened and I had gotten a GC to Macy's when we had our party a couple weeks ago.

Today one of the dcf picked up and mom handed me an envelope. I asked if it was my Christmas present (I had thought she had forgotten cuz she is always doing nice things like a GC on Thanksgiving even) and she said to open it later.

I opened it after she left and it was $200 CASH. Wow!! Nicest present ever! I don't know why but maybe because the last 6 months have been roughest with her 2 boys? Either way, awesome. happyface

[Sunshine74]

One of our dcf brought breakfast for the whole staff this morning. It was awesome; they brought bagels, muffins, doughnuts, coffee, and everything that goes with it all. We were snacking on the food all day, and I think there is still some left. This dcf does it every year and it's so appreciated!

[Malmom]

One of my favorite presents ever was a $50 gift card to a hotel, a $25 gas card, and then 4 $15 gift cards to restaurants, all packaged up in a basket with a mini road atlas and a few snack foods. I was pregnant and due 2 months later, and they told me to get away for one last kid free trip.

Now, I usually get the money or gift cards. Some parents give a full weeks pay, and others give half. I'm definitely blessed now. I've dealt with crappy parents who never said Merry Christmas, and have dealt with parents giving obvious regifts (mom was a pre-k teacher). I'm definitely thankful for the cash and the cards that accompany them.

[lovemykidstoo]

I had my morning laugh. My dcg's (twins) came in with a pretty bag and as they handed it to me, the one girl says "we got you a bracelet"! LOL! Thanks for the surprise. She was sooo cute!! Love how the kids get so excited!

[Unregistered]

I've gotten all kinds of awesome (and not so awesome, ) gifts over the years - but this year is my favorite... I am closed the 24th through to the 26th, but I won't have any kids the 27th, 28th and possibly the 31st! SIX DAYS OFF WITH PAY, and I didn't even have to use any vacation time

That is an ideal gift... enjoy every second.


Ive never gotten a gift worth mentioning. A measley ten dollar gift card i consider an insult. It basically says i know i should give you a gift but i dont want to spend the money on you. I would much rather have a heartfelt thank you and have parents follow rules, policies, etc.

What you are doing for her and her family is a wonderful gesture. The gift for her children is thoutful and says THANK YOU for all you do.

[lil angels]

Wow I got a $50, 20, and $25 restaurant gift cards. $25 Visa card. Lots of cards and chocolate and lotions this yr. what nice family's I have for thinking of me. And everyone has as of yesterday already paid me for my week off next week. Great family's I havehappyfacehappyfacehappyface

[SilverSabre25]

None this year, but really, it's all good, because I took off the 24th AND the 26th this year happyfacehappyfacehappyface So excited. That's all the gift I need--5 days off with my family. Longest break in 2.5 years!

Plus, I only have two families right now and one family is newish (only been here two months) and the other is having some major financial struggles, so it really wasn't likely this year anyway. Even more reason I'm glad i gave myself the gift of time off.

[Unregistered]

None this year, but really, it's all good, because I took off the 24th AND the 26th this year happyfacehappyfacehappyface So excited. That's all the gift I need--5 days off with my family. Longest break in 2.5 years!

Plus, I only have two families right now and one family is newish (only been here two months) and the other is having some major financial struggles, so it really wasn't likely this year anyway. Even more reason I'm glad i gave myself the gift of time off.

Yes, time off is priceless.

[renodeb]

I have had all kinds of gifts ranging from movie tickets, gc for a mani/pedi, to peppermint candles (through them out b/c they were way to strong). I dont think I have ever gotten a bonus though. Honestly I would love to just get a small bonus but Im not picky. This year one client gave me baked goods and nothing from the other client which is ok. I know they appreciate me so its cool.
I think a bonus is the best gift. Everyone could use a little extra $!
Debbie

[Willow]

Have to share, the oddest gift I've ever gotten was just given to me yesterday....along with some very nice shampoo and conditioner (mom's mom owns her own salon) was a big bottle of lotion. I pulled it out telling her how much I love new lotions and then turned in around to see a GIANT MARIJUANA LEAF plastered on the front

I get that hemp products are fine and all, but is that really something you'd jump to give your daycare provider??

I tried to hide my double take but I'm pretty sure I was unsuccessful LOL

I absolutely adore the family, but it's probably something I'll keep in my bathroom drawer as opposed to out by the kitchen sink

[momofboys]

I did not get anything, not even a card. Feel awkward handing out my small gifts. The one parent is a teacher and I would be surprised if she does not get gifts from her students. Just disappointed, not wanting much but a letter if appreciation would have sufficed

[MissAnn]

I fared pretty well this year. Mostly gift cards. 2 from the same place...that always helps! Last year a mom posted on Facebook the gifts she made for her kids teachers. I knew not to get excited...I counted 2 gifts and the boy I have has 2 older brothers. Seems if you don't work in a brick building, you don't qualify for a gift. Sad.