How to Ask For a Few Hours Off?

[Unregistered]

You don't ask. You just tell them you are taking off.

[Soccermom]

All parents with a child who goes to an in home daycare NEEDS to have at least 2 back up plans. Anything can happen and we don't have any staff to come to the rescue. I confirm it before I sign a contract with them.

Most of us have children and we do this to be able to make $ while still caring for our own children. Parents need to remember and realize this.

As long as you are not taking days off all the time, I wouldn't even think twice about it. Just tell them you have an important event going on that day and you will be required to close for the day.

If you haven't talked about backup plans...this is a good opportunity to do so.

Most parents are really understanding and those who aren't likely aren't a good fit for in home childcare.

Don't feel guilty hun...your DS comes first

Also...never be afraid to make changes to you rules and regulations, especially if you are just starting out. Most of us make it up as we go by seeing what works and what doesn't work in the first few years.

[Annalee]

I am curious to know exactly how that is stated in your contract, like how many days you can take total and such. I am just afraid if I word it how you put it, parents may think I will be taking off all the time and they have to pay anyways. kwim?

After listing my holidays, professional and vacation days, I say xxxx may close unlimited emergency days without notice..i.e. no water/electricity, serious death/illness in family, etc. xxxx will also use personal days for special family time throughout the year i.e. school graduation, weddings, etc. Notice will be given as soon as possible. I know this can be hard for providers because it was for me when I began to clamp down on parents. Bottom line, you gotta protect yourself. This is our livelihood. Be strong. These are some words my mentor gives me to this day. We have to help each other. Be non-negotiable whatever you decide to do. Some parents are just going to be gripers. But they will just have to get over it.

[My3cents]

You don't ask!!! Daycare parents are not your employer. It still amazes me how so many parents think we shouldn't attend our own functions because it inconveniences them!

I agree we shouldn't ask- but honestly I do it out of politeness. It doesn't matter if they say no or not, I am still going to close and its rare that I do this or ask this of my parents. Just me-