How Long is Fair to Expect Holding Fees?

[Lil_Diddle]

Well it’s official today, school is now closed for the remainder of the year. Until today, it was closed until April 24th. As I watch teacher’s kids, they were paying 50% as a holding fee. I’ve had two families drop, one that said she’s happy to keep paying through the closure. The rest haven’t said much but they do make their payments. I haven’t said anything new since today’s announcement. But I previously mentioned if schools remain closed they are expected to keep paying 50% until the contract date- end of school scheduled date of May 22nd. But now that this is the case I’m feeling guilty, expecting payment for doing nothing. I know it’s not my fault or at my request. But I hate it. It was fine when it was just a few weeks, but now it will be a total of 9 weeks. I’m nervous about making the announcement. If I offer to drop charges though I will have no income to cover my bills without breaking into my savings. All of my daycare families are working and have not lost income. I just hate being in this position.

[DaveA]

Don't feel bad about doing what is best for you. Follow your contract and DCPs should expect to do the same. :hug:

[Cat Herder]

Their contract is continuing to pay them, why should yours be any different? If they don't pay for the summer, then that is when they stop paying.

[rosieteddy]

I wouldn't feel bad either.They are being paid their full pay.You are asking for 50 %.Do you usually have the summer off? Maybe you could offer to take the last weeks fee and apply it to the first week backs tuition in August or whenever you usually start back. Non refundable of course.This situation is something we have never dealt with before. Certainly a challenging time .

[AmyKidsCo]

I think 50% is fair, since they're still being paid in full. If you can't pay your bills you'll need to get a different job, then they won't have child care when this is all done.