I think I have to term my first family. :(

[bklsmum]

I like them well enough and the kids are usually good although they are SA's so there is that but the schedule is sooo inconsistent. They were my first family so I give them a pass on the weeks notice schedule thing cause they say they can't afford to pay when the kids aren't here. I had asked for 24 hour notice but they said the best the can do is the night before so I let it slide. Well all summer they have been really bad and today they told me at pick up that they don't need me the rest of the week after calling out for Monday too. I can't run a business like this. I think I need to give them two weeks notice and term.

[spinnymarie]

Since you have let them slide in the past, maybe you could give them an ultimatum instead of just a term? Like, we need to start following these rules: 1, 2, 3 or this will have to be your two weeks notice for termination.
Maybe they will shape up? Unless you just don't want them either, and in that case, just be done.

[SignMeUp]

Since you have let them slide in the past, maybe you could give them an ultimatum instead of just a term? Like, we need to start following these rules: 1, 2, 3 or this will have to be your two weeks notice for termination.
Maybe they will shape up? Unless you just don't want them either, and in that case, just be done.

Yes, maybe set a minimum number of days per week? Even at two days, you would have some certain income.

[deliberateliterate]

Yes, maybe set a minimum number of days per week? Even at two days, you would have some certain income.

I was in almost the same situation, and that's what I finally did. They take upwards of 10 weeks vacation a year, but they still pay for 2days a week, minimum.

[renodeb]

Its tough terming a family but you will be glad you did. Like you said you can't run a business like that. Most centers would still charge you. Hopefully you can replace that family soon!

[AmyKidsCo]

If you like the children and parents I'd talk to them and let them know that the current arrangement isn't working out and that you need ________________ in order to continue providing care for their children. I'd tell them that like any business you need a steady income to meet your financial obligations.

[nannyde]

You are doing drop in care. That's all there is too it. Drop in care is very expensive. If they want to come and go as they please then pay for that luxury.

[Kabob]

I'd call it a "restructuring of your services." Tell them that to continue provide the quality services they know and love, they need to either sign a drop-in contract or a full time contract. Drop in allows them to schedule only as they need it, but then they risk you being full (or busy), plus drop in costs more for the convenience of not having to pay when they're not there. Full time guarantees them a spot and is cheaper per day but then they have to pay a set amount per week regardless of attendance and they have to follow the scheduling in advance rule. At least, that's what I would do...

You could suggest it as a great benefit to them: "Hey dcm, I am restructuring my daycare to continue providing quality, affordable daycare that you and dck love so much. To do that, I need you to sign a new contract. Here is my drop in contract (explain) and my full time contract (again explain as needed). I noticed that the days you need are sporadic and I understand that it's tough to pay for days you're not here so perhaps the drop in contract would work best for you. Please look it over and return it by xyz date to continue without interrupting care."

Just my thoughts from having to crack down on this back when I realized I had this issue....all of my families returned their contracts. If yours doesn't, well you were planning on terming them anyway.