Hope I'm Not Being Too Mean

[lovemydaycare0912]

But one of my dcms whose dcb isn't in today still is aware payment is due. She then calls frustrated because her job didn't deposit her check due to the holiday. They are not sure if it will clear tomorrow or Monday.

At first she called saying she was only going to give me half since she pays for 2 weeks in advance not 1. I kindly let her know the policy and since she didn't have change on her she said she would be by later. Now I remember earlier in the week she said her sons bday party was tomorrow so I kept this in mind.

Now she texts me saying can she bring payment on Monday because she needs the money to buy things for dcbs party tomorrow.

This is a good DCF. I did address yesterday that grandma cannot drop off dcb 10 minutes earlier even if I have other children here. No real issues with payment or lateness except for once or twice small issues in the 8 months he's been here.

My dilemma is this: I don't think I should allow her to use money she has because she needs to buy more for his party and then I possibly don't have payment on Monday. I mean she wouldn't be able to drop off dcb and she'd owe a late fee but then I'd be out my money until she brings it.

I was willing to let her pay half today and half on Monday with no late fee but clearly she's trying to not pay at all today.

Am I mean if I tell her she can pay Monday with a late fee or half today half Monday? I get it l, it's your son's bday party, but just as you are upset about your paycheck, so am I.

I know the answer I guess, just want to know am I wrong?

[laundrymom]

I would tell her Monday is fine just to add the late fee for each day it's late.

[lovemydaycare0912]

Thank you. BlackCat or Michael please delete thread.

[daycarediva]

I would tell her

"I understand dcm. I need to buy groceries and supplies for the daycare for next week. I will accept half payment today in the amount of X, or I can accept full payment Monday in the amount of X with late fees of X."

Don't people have savings or credit cards? I knew the bank would be closed today and planned accordingly.

[TheMisplacedMidwestMom]

Did they invite you to the birthday party you're paying for?

This is one thing that really bothers me. Why is it ok to play before you pay your bills and expect someone else to financially deal with your lack of planning? THIS is what our kids are learning from parents. THIS explains soooo much of what is going on right now.

[Mom2Two]

Sounds like a moment for explaining that if she needs help with personal financial problems, she might want to consider turning for help to her personal relationships, such as her parents. But that's not your role in her life.

You could say that you don't feel that it would be appropriate to be involved in her personal life, and that payment is due (with whatever penalties you decide on).

Or maybe she could go and talk to the grocery store manager and ask them if they will let her pay for her groceries on Monday.

Just kidding.

[lovemydaycare0912]

No I am not invited. At least if I was invited then maybe I would be more inclined to let her pay late. I don't understand why parents throw their kids parties if they are relying on a check to pay for it. Well I told her she can surely pay on Monday, just add $20 to it. She said okay, thanks. I'm sure she's upset with me, but at the end of the day I have bills too. People need to learn to plan better.