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I have an interview next week and I am always asked if the parents can observe. I really don't like this. In the past I have with one mom because she was referred by an existing family so I did it on a day that I only had those kids with parents permission. It is so awkward. And the dcks and my own kids don't act as they normally would. Do any of you let observe? Do you let them stay a while on their first day. If so how do you make it work? If not what do you say to the parents. I would love to tell them it's not possible due to privacy of other children but I'm afraid they will worry or try to debate. Any suggestions?
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I just tell them that it is too disruptive to have parents here for extended periods. It messes with our schedule, the kids get very wound up about having an audience, and it usually turns into chaos. I know that they wouldn't want their child stressed out by that any more than the other parents would. I encourage them, instead, to call my licensing rep with any questions or concerns about how things run here. She actually has observed me for many hours and they can ask her questions about how we deal with things. -
yes I do...
however, you must have already come for a tour. at the tour I get a good feel for the family and if I really like them and If I think I have any interest in enrolling them yes.
If I don't want to move forward with them NO.
I let them come for circle time for about 20min and it has never been an issue.
they are told before hand that 20min tops and to expect the kids to act out as they always do when new people are around.
I have never had a parent not enroll after attending circle time.
i also only give it if asked.Comment
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No.
I will videotape any given day for them if they choose and they can come on a weekend and watch the tape.Comment
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I have this line on standby for potential clients who want to observe:
"While I understand that you would want to "see me in action" before leaving your child for the first time, I cannot allow it for several reasons.
First is the privacy of the other children and their family's. I do diaper changes, deal with medical issues/conditions, and discuss their home life with them on a daily basis. I have a strict privacy policy and having another adult around violates the trust between my clients and myself.
Second, you are a stranger to the children and their parents. Please consider how you would feel if your child were in care and I allowed a strange adult to the daycare to observe your child.
Third, I consider the trust my clients place in me the cornerstone of our relationship. In a childcare relationship I am asking that a client trust me completely with their child. I ask for honesty and open communication. Asking me to prove myself above and beyond my criminal background check, photo identification, insurance information, and references is not something I am willing to do.
I do understand if you need to find other arrangements. Just know that I value the children's safety and security above all else and allowing adults in to observe them is not part of the safe and secure environment I promise them each and every day."Comment
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I have never been asked by a parent to observe. However, if after the interview a parent asks, I would be okay with it. I would make it very clear how long they can stay and what to expect. They would also need to need to have all of the paperwork turned in prior to this date, as I tend to run background searches on the parents.Comment
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I do allow short observations for parents allowing them the chance to view the program but also reiterating how their child will be expected to gradually fall in line with routines/play, etc....that the parent staying takes away from a typical day....
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Nope!Comment
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Never have and never will.Comment
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I don't. but if a person does, I recommend the provide select the day and time and time frame. dont let a parent sit there all day!Comment
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