Easy Come, Easy Go?

[aDCProvider]

I have had a trend start in the last year...a family enrolls, then I find out that the child(ren) have only been with family previously (aunt, grandmother, family owned daycare) and that they're looking to get socialization for the child. Then after anywhere from 2 weeks to 3 months they're withdrawing because they preferred their previous arrangement. Of course, what child doesn't want to be with family, and what parent doesn't want free childcare?!

It's just so frustrating, I feel like the turnover is starting to make me look bad to my other families. Everyone just starts getting comfortable with one and other and then bam they're gone!

Has this happened to anyone? How do I prevent this from continuing to happen? In your opinion, does this make my program look bad?

[EntropyControlSpecialist]

I am having a similar issue but just because people move, must be termed, learn that the rules are truly the rules, etc. I wouldn't worry about it.

[Blackcat31]

I think everyone goes through periods of high turnover. For lots of different reasons.

If any other families notice I would just say something like "Yes, it can be frustrating to find the right fit for our program. But we keep trying!"

This does a couple things...

Let's the parent know that you care about finding the right fit and don't just take anyone who is interested and it serves as kind of a verbal reminder that you aren't afraid to support the fact that the relationship between parent and provider DOES need to fit each other....which IS an important part of this business in my opinion.

Try to stay positive and know that we have ALL gone through it and that NO ONE is immune to it no matter how good they are, no matter how long they've been in business and no matter how perfect their set up is ..... it happens to everyone.

Stay positive.... positive thoughts breed positive changes!

[coolconfidentme]

I had 3 new families in the last 6 weeks..., all who I have let go. They didn't fit as BlackCat said above.

[Wubby]

I have had 1 spot that seems to have a high turnover. Every kids in the last 3 yrs that takes that spot just doesn't fit. Finally on March 1st a new kiddo started. Wow, he fit in so amazing. mom is amazing, so happy!!!!!

[cheerfuldom]

These are parents that are taking their kids out for free/easy childcare arrangements. I would just say so if the other parents ask "Yes Ava is gone already. We really enjoyed having her but they found an arrangement that involved family helping out with Ava and I understand that that situation was a huge blessing to them. We are going to miss her!" Give it a positive spin. "Yes Gavin has already left us. He is ready for preschool and I am so proud to see my older daycare kids doing so well academically. We are going to miss him!"

Saying family is helping out and someone left for preschool is fine and shows that it wasnt a lack of something at your daycare. Turnover happens. Most parents will understand that, especially if you address it immediately.